Decapod Larvae: Dispersal, Mortality, and Ecology. A Working Hypothesis

Abstract

TWO topics on decapod larval biology are discussed: retention and recruitment of decapod larvae to the parental population and the ecological role of decapod larvae in the water column. Most decapods have retained a planktonic larval phase which is generally interpreted as a mechanism for increased dispersal. Evidence of restricted gene flow and biological/physical interaction research have suggested that larvae can be retained and recruited to the parental population via mesoscale processes. To fully understand recruitment processes improved estimates of mortality rates for planktonic larval stages will be required. Recent evidence suggests that mortality rates are not constant over the complete larval developmental period but decrease with time. During some seasons meroplankton including decapod l arvae can constitute more than 50% of the plankton biomass. The quantity of energy transferred into the water column can be significant. Their role in planktonic ecology may be significant and additional research is required.