Abstract
The intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm) of the rotifer Ascomorpha ecaudis was found to be a hyperbolic function of food concentration. The threshold food concentration and rmax/2-food concentration determined for this species were significantly lower than values predicted from allometric models. These growth characteristics may be related to the mucus house in which Ascomorpha lives and/or the symbiotic algae living in its body tissues. The maximum rate of population growth recorded (0.71 d−1) was similar to that of other soft-bodied rotifers of similar body mass. These population growth characteristics and the resistance of this species to invertebrate predation should allow it to become a dominant member of freshwater zooplankton communities. However, field observations suggest that it is not. Reasons for this are suggested.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
