Interrelations between the vertical distribution of Daphnia and chlorophyll a in two large limnetic enclosures
George, D.G. (1983). Interrelations between the vertical distribution of Daphnia and chlorophyll a in two large limnetic enclosures. J. Plankton Res. 5(4): 457-475
In: Journal of Plankton Research. Oxford University Press: New York,. ISSN 0142-7873; e-ISSN 1464-3774, more
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| Keywords |
Aquatic communities > Plankton > Zooplankton
Distribution > Geographical distribution > Vertical distribution
Ecological associations
Irradiance
Organic compounds > Carbohydrates > Glycosides > Pigments > Photosynthetic pigments > Chlorophylls
Daphnia hyalina lacustris
Fresh water |
| Abstract |
This paper summarises the major factors influencing the daytime vertical distribution of Daphnia hyalina var. lacustris (Sars) in two large experimental enclosures (Lund Tubes). In both tubes, the depth at which the Daphnia aggregated during the day was closely related to sub-surface irradiance. On a few occasions aggregations of Daphnia were found in "dark" water associated with a deep chlorophyll maximum. On many occasions, however, the animals' light response per se ensured their aggregation at depths of maximum phytoplankton abundance. The most important factor influencing the dispersion of animals in the water column was the steepness of the light gradient. In turbid water vertical aggregations were well defined, whereas in clear water the aminals were widely dispersed around their depth of maximum abundance. Daphnia also tended to disperse in the water column when their population density was high or when food was scarce. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to the effects of zooplankton grazing and speculations on the adaptive significance of depth regulation. |
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