Population biology of hyperbenthic crustaceans in a cold water environment (Conception Bay, Newfoundland). II. Acanthostepheia malmgreni (Amphipoda)

Abstract

Seasonal population dynamics of the gammarid Acanthostepheia malmgreni Goes in Conception Bay, Newfoundland, were examined from October 1998 to November 2000. This species exhibited a 2.5-year life span, with the reproductive cycle correlating with seasonal phytoplankton flux. Females were semelparous and died following a 5-month brooding period and the subsequent release of juveniles in April and May. The biennial life cycle of this population should result in the presence of two cohorts in the hyperbenthos at any given time. However, the cohorts alternated in strength from year to year, which affected annual density, biomass and production during the study period. Densities were 64±87 ind. per 100 m3 in 1999 and 491±492 ind. per 100 m3 (mean±SD) in 2000. Secondary production was estimated at 18–44 mg C m−2 in 1999 and 180–311 mg C m−2 in 2000. The annual P/B ratios were 0.89 and 2.27 in 1999 and 2000, respectively. Growth varied both among and within cohorts, with different life-history stages exhibiting variable growth rates ranging from 0 to 12 mg dry mass month−1.