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Size and age-dependent changes of escape response to predator attack in the Queen scallop Aequipecten opercularis
Schmidt, M.; Philipp, E.E.R.; Abele, D. (2008). Size and age-dependent changes of escape response to predator attack in the Queen scallop Aequipecten opercularis. Mar. Biol. Res. 4(6): 442-450. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17451000802270346
In: Marine Biology Research. Taylor & Francis: Oslo; Basingstoke. ISSN 1745-1000; e-ISSN 1745-1019, more
Peer reviewed article  

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Keywords
    Aquatic organisms > Heterotrophic organisms > Predators
    Dimensions > Size
    Locomotion > Swimming
    Survival
    Aequipecten opercularis (Linnaeus, 1758) [WoRMS]; Asterias rubens Linnaeus, 1758 [WoRMS]; Asteroidea [WoRMS]; Pectinidae Rafinesque, 1815 [WoRMS]
    Marine/Coastal
Author keywords
    Predators; scallops; size; swimming

Authors  Top 
  • Schmidt, M.
  • Philipp, E.E.R.
  • Abele, D.

Abstract
    Physiological fitness and exercise capacity decrease with age in humans and rodents, a finding for which, among other causes, the decline of cellular and especially mitochondrial functions with age is held responsible. We investigated changes of escape response to predator attacks in swimming scallops (Aequipecten opercularis) with size using the natural predator Asterias rubens. Aequipecten opercularis swim mainly to avoid predators and a decrease in swimming abilities would increase risk of capture and lower survival. The queen scallop A. opercularis is a very active, epibenthic species with a short lifespan of 8-10 years and a shell height up to 90 mm in the investigated fishing ground around the Isle of Man. No difference in clap rate was found between smaller and bigger A. opercularis individuals, but differences were found in swimming mode (jumping and swimming) and valve opening and closure behaviour between the two size groups in response to predator attack. Smaller individuals showed less jumping movements and closed valves more often and remained closed for longer time than bigger animals. The difference in swimming behaviour is discussed in respect to size and age-dependent changes in morphology and cellular physiology as well as interactions of different main predators (sea stars, crabs) with the different size classes.

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