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A dispersal model for larvae of the deep sea red crab Geryon quinquedens based upon behavioral regulation of vertical migration in the hatching stage

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Abstract

Behavioral responses to gravity, hydrostatic pressure, and thermoclines are described for Stage I zoeae of the deep sea red crab Geryon quinquedens Smith. Survival and rate of development as a function of temperature is presented for all larval stages. Although temperatures between 10° and 25°C have no direct effect upon survival, development time is five times longer at 10°C than at 25°C. Stage I larvae show strong negative response to gravity. Swimming rate increases with an increase in pressure up to 20 atm above ambient at 11°C, but not at 15°C. Swimming rates at 15°C are higher than those measured at 11°C at each pressure tested. Stage I larvae readily penetrate sharp thermoclines. Potential dispersal ranges of G. quinquedens larvae in the Mid-Atlantic Bight are suggested based on larval behavior, development time, and coastal hydrography. A testable recruitment model is proposed for G. quinquedens.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Horn Point Environmental Laboratories, Center for Environmental and Estuarine Studies, University of Maryland, 21613, Cambridge, Maryland, USA

    P. Kelly, S. D. Sulkin & W. F. Van Heukelem

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  1. P. Kelly
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  2. S. D. Sulkin
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  3. W. F. Van Heukelem
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Communicated by S.K. Pierce, College Park

Contribution no. 1365 of the Center for Environmental and Estuarine Studies

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Kelly, P., Sulkin, S.D. & Van Heukelem, W.F. A dispersal model for larvae of the deep sea red crab Geryon quinquedens based upon behavioral regulation of vertical migration in the hatching stage. Mar. Biol. 72, 35–43 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00393945

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