Size distribution of Daphnia longispina in the vertical profile

1997

D. longispina of the meromictic lake El Tobar is a round-headed form. It never has a helmet, but in summer a small proportion of immature individuals (0.9–1.2 mm females and males) have one or two neck teeth. The size structure of this Daphnia population, as well as the vertical distribution and migration of different size-classes, were studied in September and November of 1991 and April of 1992. The large variation in mean size and size at first reproduction, as well as the occurrence of different patterns of vertical migration are interpreted as responses to different predator situations. At the end of April, when Daphnia mortality by visually hunting predators is dominating, a typical no…