The life history and distribution of Neomysis americana (Smith) (Crustacea, Mysidacea) in Passamaquoddy Bay

Abstract

Neomysis americana in Passamaquoddy Bay produces two generations per year. Breeding occurs during the spring, summer, and early fall. Each female is capable of producing two or three broods; average brood sizes for spring and summer females were 45 and 32, respectively. Development time of eggs varied directly with temperature. The intermolt period of juveniles remained constant up to the time of the development of secondary sexual characteristics, between the eighth and ninth molts, and then increased. The life history of N. americana in Passamaquoddy Bay is compared with that in other areas.