Research on Crustacea from the “Discovery” Expedition*

Abstract

VOL. 14 of the "Discovery" Reports is devoted to Crustacea and includes important memoirs on Euphausia superba, on the southern species of the genus Euphausia, and on Decapod larvae. The whale krill Euphausia superba may be said to be the key animal of antarctic plankton. Its importance as whale food and its enormous abundance make it an ideal subject for research, and the authors of the respective monographs have utilized their unique opportunities to the best advantage. We now definitely know a considerable amount about the development, larval distribution and breeding of one species, the knowledge being based on the examination of a huge number of specimens. There is more to come, for at least another memoir is in progress which will deal with development and distribution of the adult animal. No member of the group has ever been studied so thoroughly as Euphausia superba, and the thorough study of this one species will serve as a basis for all future research.