ISSN:
1432-2056
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Summary Movements of the cephalic appendages of nauplii (stages 3 and 4), copepodites (stage 4) and adult female Drepanopus pectinatus were investigated using a computerized micro-impedance unit. Direct measurements and visual observations of the behaviour of restrained copepods were made in the presence of filtered seawater, naturally occurring phytoplankton of different sizes, prefiltered extracts of phytoplankton and seston. The normal appendage movements recorded in filtered seawater were similar for adult females and copepodites. Traces for nauplii were different compared with those of the two other developmental stages. Appendage movements were modified when adult females were offered particles of different sizes and extracts of phytoplankton, showing significant changes in the frequency of the limb beats in relation to each stimulus. Impedance traces distinguished between activity of copepod appendages related to feeding and to swimming such as: flicking, stroking, jerking, combing, handling and rejecting particles. Prolonged recordings of restrained females in association with visual observations suggested that the activity of the mandibular palp was related to gut fullness and peristaltic movements, and to fecal pellet formation and evacuation. These results indicated that D. pectinatus is an intermittent beater responding to the physical and chemical characteristics of food.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00233078
