Predicting development, metabolism and secondary production for the invertebrate predator Bythotrephes

Abstract

1. Rates of embryonic and post‐embryonic development for Bythotrephes cederstroemi from Lakes Erie, Huron and Michigan are represented almost equally well by three empirical models across water temperatures ranging from about 12–22 °C, but at lower temperatures two of the competing models fail and an exponential development rate model proves most robust.2. Clutch masses of parthenogenic females can greatly exceed the tissue mass of the mother. Clutch size is strongly correlated with the mass of reproductive adults, accounting for over 90% of the variation among individuals. Hence, the mass gain from neonate to reproductive adult can be estimated directly from clutch size.3. Tissue stoichiometries, respiration quotients and stoichiometries of C and N metabolism were determined experimentally, extending the predictions of existing respiration and growth models.4. A predictive model for growth and production by the invertebrate predator has advantages over previous model formulations owing to our expanded calibration data base. The model is presented in a modular design that is easily upgraded as additional calibration data become available.