The copepodid stages of Drepanopus forcipatus giesbrecht, with notes on the genus and a comparison with other members of the family Clausocalanidae (Copepoda Calanoida)

Abstract

The post-naupliar developmental stages of the Calanoid copepod Drepanopus forcipatus Giesbrecht are described. They are compared with copepodids of other members of the family Clausocalanidae. The sequence of appearance and development of segmentation and setation indicate considerable conformity and point to a uniform familial pattern. Attention is drawn to a general pattern of addition of body segments and of segments in the first antenna and swimming legs. Comparison of integumental pore patterns of several genera, confirms the provisional pore signature of the family. Remarks are made on the identity and distribution of species of Drepanopus. © 1991 Biologische Anstalt Helgoland.