Distribution, abundance and reproduction of the Indo-Pacific acorn barnacle Balanus amphitrite (Crustacea: Cirripedia)
Litulo, C. (2007). Distribution, abundance and reproduction of the Indo-Pacific acorn barnacle Balanus amphitrite (Crustacea: Cirripedia). J. Mar. Biol. Ass. U.K. 87(3): 723-727. https://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0025315407052757
In: Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom. Cambridge University Press/Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom: Cambridge. ISSN 0025-3154; e-ISSN 1469-7769, more
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| Abstract |
The patterns of distribution, abundance and reproduction of the Indo-Pacific barnacle Balanus amphitrite were surveyed at Costa do Sol mangrove, Maputo Bay, southern Mozambique using stratified sampling design. Balanus amphitrite exhibited a spatial variation in which high numbers of individuals colonized the upper stratum in comparison to the lower stratum. Seasonal abundance of B. amphitrite was greater in the upper stratum and declined in June and September. In contrast, very high densities of individuals were recorded in winter in the lower stratum. Gonad cycle showed continuous trend and release of embryos mainly took place in winter (May-July). There was a strong quadratic effect of temperature on breeding activity of B. amphitrite, with females continuing to brood at lower temperatures. Egg numbers increased linearly with female size. The success of the reproductive activity may be synchronized within the species, enhancing the establishment and colonization of B. amphitrite in the study area. |
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