Spectral analyses of movements made by the cephalic appendages of copepods

Abstract

Movements of Calanus helgolandicus, Centropages typicus and Temora longicornis cephalic appendages, which are involved in feeding and swimming, were investigated. When considered together, results of limb beat traces and of spectral and autocorrelation analyses show that the movements of copepods cephalic limbs are dependent upon the species, and are indicative of sensory feeding behaviour. Particle size had the greatest influence on appendage movements. Chemical stimulation in the absence of particles generally increased the appendage beat frequency, but did not cause fluctuations in beat amplitude. During feeding in copepods, it is likely that mechano- and chemoreception are complementary and act in conjunction.