Copepod growth in detail: Pattern similarity to decapod larvae

Abstract

It is proposed that copepods grow between one moult and the next in much the same fashion as established by Klaus Anger and others for decapod crustacean larvae. The analogy is justified by commonality of (i) approximately isochronal development patterns, (ii) potential for continuously exponential growth at stage-to-stage resolution, and (iii) demonstrated points of reserve saturation. Thus, as for crab zoeae, the copepod pattern should be very fast initial growth, then slowing as activity shifts to preparation of the new exoskeleton prior to moult. As much as 80% of growth may occur in the first half of the moult cycle, with no growth at all in the last third. Establishing the exact patterns for copepods faces difficulties not presented by decapod larvae, and some solutions to these problems are suggested. Obtaining precise data will help to predict and interpret (model correctly) the effects of food limitation in the field. © 2008 International Council for the Exploration of the Sea. Published by Oxford Journals. All rights reserved.