Seasonal variation in the sex ratio of Arctodiaptomus salinus (Copepoda: Calanoida): Does it agree with the "cheaper-sex" hypothesis?

Abstract

Sex ratio affects the growth rates of wild populations; so, for a better understanding of population dynamics, it is crucial to know the mechanisms that determine it. We analyzed seasonal variation in sex ratio of the copepod Arctodiaptomus salinus. It was in general male-skewed and affected by temperature. Our results suggest that investing in the "cheaper sex" might be a good strategy of this population to increase population growth rate.