DYNAMIC MORPHOLOGY OF FISH LARVAE, STRUCTURAL IMPLICATIONS OF FRICTION FORCES IN SWIMMING, FEEDING AND VENTILATION
J. W. M. Osse, J. G. M. Van Den Boogaart-1999
Journal of Fish Biology, 55(a): 156-174

Abstract:

Dynamic morphology is the study of the ontogenetic transformations of functional systems in growing organisms. This paper describes these processes in fish larvae as they grow into the juvenile stage. Details of form changes and growth at the level of the organism and its organs are given. Some mechanical functions, such as swimming, eating and ventilation/respiration, which are important for surviving the most vulnerable period of life, the larval period, are analysed and their demands on structures and constructions are correlated with changing forms, size dimensions and environmental factors. The size- and velocity-dependent influences of viscosity, as an important physical environmental factor, are the points of emphasis. The changing form of the swimming motion, form and task of the finfold at different places along the body, modes and requirements of aquatic feeding and respiration are reflected in the changing sizes and proportions of the developing larval body.

(Experimental Zoology, Department of Animal Sciences, Zodiac, Marijkeweg 40, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH, Wageningen, The Netherlands, tel.: 31 317 482267, fax: 31 317 483955, e-mail: office@alg.edc.wau.nl)

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