E.A. Harvey, C.E. Epifanio-1997
J. Exp. Mar. Biol. Ecol., 217: 79-91, in Rotifer News, 30 (Dec '97)
Mud crab larvae were fed mixed diets consisting of defined ratios of brine shrimp, Artemia sp., and rotifers, Brachionus plicatilus Muller. Early-stage larvae (zoeae I) showed a strong preference for rotifers. Late-stage larvae (zoea IV) showed strong preference for brine shrimp. Results of the study suggest that P. herbstii larvae are able to discriminate between rotifers and Artemia. This discrimination may be based on size and perhaps swimming speed, and the mechanism is non-visual. The relevant sensory system may involve mechanoreceptors, but this has not been verified experimentally.
(Univ. Delaware, Coll. Marine Studies, 700 Pilottown Rd., Lewes, DE 19958, USA)