Predator-enhanced diel vertical migration in a planktonic dinoflagellate

Marine Ecology Progress Series

Stephen M. Bollens¹  Joel A. Quenette¹  Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens¹ 

关键词: Dinoflagellate;    Vertical distribution;    Diel vertical migration;    Nutrients;    Light;    Predator avoidance;   

DOI  :  10.3354/meps09467

学科分类：海洋学与技术

来源: Inter-Research

【 摘 要 】

ABSTRACT: Diel vertical migration (DVM) is a common and conspicuous behavior amongst planktonic organisms. In the case of dinoflagellates, both light and nutrients have been shown to regulate DVM, although the role of predators (grazers) has been understudied. Here we report the results of an experimental study using a system of ‘plankton mini-towers’ to examine the DVM behavior of the marine planktonic dinoflagellate Akashiwo sanguinea. A. sanguinea undertook a pronounced reverse DVM (down during the night, up during the day) in both the absence and presence of copepod predators (Acartia spp.). In the presence of copepods, however, the amplitude of the DVM was enhanced, providing the dinoflagellate with greater spatial separation from its ‘normally’ migrating predator. We briefly discuss the causes (cues) and ecological consequences of predator-enhanced DVM in dinoflagellates.

【 授权许可】

Unknown