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Effect of temperature on the microdistribution of the isopod Sphaeroma rugicauda from a saltmarsh habitat

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Abstract

The saltmarsh isopod Sphaeroma rugicauda (Leach) is subjected to widespread diurnal and seasonal temperature fluctuations under natural conditions. Laboratory studies on its activity show that there is a relationship between behaviour activity and exposure temperature between 2.5° and 25°C. Although S. rugicauda has no complex metabolic adaptations, this isopod is able to maintain a rate of aerial oxygen consumption which is similar to that in water within the temperature range 5° to 25°C. The responses of S. rugicauda to changes in environmental temperature are discussed in relation to the seasonal microdistribution of the isopod in the salt-marsh habitat.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Zoology and Comparative Physiology, Queen Mary College, London, England

    I. D. Marsden

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  1. I. D. Marsden
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Communicated by J.H.S. Blaxter, Oban

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Marsden, I.D. Effect of temperature on the microdistribution of the isopod Sphaeroma rugicauda from a saltmarsh habitat. Mar. Biol. 38, 117–128 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00390765

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