Published online by Cambridge University Press: 19 September 2003
The effect of thermal stress upon pattern development in Loligo forbesi was investigated. Levels of pattern disruption and pattern asymmetry were measured by examining the chromatophores of hatchlings reared at three constant temperatures (8, 12 and 16°C). Results indicate a strong positive correlation between thermal stress and disruption of embryonic chromatophore pattern. Asymmetry in chromatophore pattern occurs non-directionally and can therefore be described as fluctuating asymmetry.