Life history adaptation of Tanymastix stagnalis (Crustacea, Branchiopoda) to habitat characteristics

Abstract

Life histories of two populations of Tanymastix stagnalis from sites in central Italy, differing in climate and altitude above sea level, were compared to obtain information on the tolerance limits of this species. Temperature was the main factor affecting the biology of Tanymastix stagnalis. Significant differences in growth patterns occurred at different sites. A colder climate induced delayed hatching, slower differentiation and maturation, but a longer life span in the mountain population (Forca Canapine) than in the plain (Fosso dei Mergani). Both populations exhibited an initial fluctuating sex ratio, which later became female biased, a pattern which could be the consequence of adaptation to the unstable nature of the biotopes studied.