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Behavioural Rhythms in Littoral Prawns

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 May 2009

G. Rodriguez
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University College of Swansea
E. Naylor†
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University College of Swansea

Extract

Palaemon elegans Rathke on South Wales coasts, unlike P. serratus (Pennant), does not migrate offshore in winter but stays in intertidal pools throughout the year. Both species occur in rock pools in summer, with P. elegans extending farthest up the shore and often occurring in pools above M.H.W.N. Each shows a spontaneous but short-lived tidal rhythm of locomotor activity in constant laboratory conditions, the rhythm persisting longer in isolated prawns than in groups of animals recorded together. Peak activity occurred on the ‘expected’ ebb, and light/dark changes, including those associated with tidal rise and fall, appear to be important in synchronizing the rhythm. The tidal rhythm of Palaemon elegans above M.H.W.N. quickly rephases to a semi-diurnal dusk/dark rhythm during the period of neap tides, the rhythm again becoming tidal when spring tides return. The possible significance of ebb activity is discussed.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 1972

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