The Larval Development and Population Dynamics of Derocheilocaris Algoensis (Crustacea, Mystacocarida)

Abstract

Seven larval stages of Derocheilocaris algoensis have been described and appear to be identical with those of D. typica from North America. This stresses the remarkable conservativeness of this subclass of Crustacea. The population biology of D. algoensis has been studied over 16 months and reproduction has been found to continue throughout the year but to exhibit some distinct peaks. Growth from egg to reproductively active adult appears to take approximately 60 days. The total life-span is approximately eight months, of which the latter six are spent in reproductive activity.