The effect of temperature on life history parameters and cost of reproduction in the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus

Abstract

We used the monogonont rotifer, Brachionus calyciflorus, to study the effect of ambient temperatures of 16°C, 22°C, and 29°C on longevity and life history parameters. We found that temperature had a significant relationship with longevity. At lower temperature, there was prolongation of the pre-reproductive and reproductive periods, but fecundity was reduced significantly due to suppression of the reproductive rate. When lifespan of short- and long-lived rotifers was compared, we found that the significant longevity difference in these rotifers was due to extension of reproductive and post-reproductive periods. The fecundity was significantly higher in longer lived rotifers due to the extension of the reproductive period, but the reproductive rate was significantly lower in these rotifers. A consistent negative relationship between rotifer longevity and the rate of reproduction was observed at all temperatures, and it was particularly pronounced in rotifers reproducing heavily at the end of the reproductive stage of their life cycle. The combined rate of living/oxidative damage theory may help explain the temperature effects that we observed. © 2011 Taylor & Francis.