Flexible adaptation of the seasonal krill maturity cycle in the laboratory

Abstract

Under controlled laboratory conditions, the influence of various light regimes on the maturation cycle of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) was investigated. An accelerated rate of maturity regression occurred when krill commenced sexual regression under complete darkness. Krill can therefore flexibly adjust their seasonal physiological cycles to cope with varying environmental conditions. © The Author 2010. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.