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Thermal behaviour of crustaceans.
Kari Y H Lagerspetz1, Liisa A Vainio
1Department of Biology, University of Turku, FIN-20014 Turku, Finland. kari.lagerspetz@utu.fi
Summary
Crustaceans exhibit thermosensitivity, responding to temperature changes with specific behaviors. Their thermal responses are influenced by acclimation, with potential for peripheral nervous system control.
Area of Science:
- Zoology
- Animal Physiology
- Behavioral Ecology
Background:
- Specific thermoreceptors are not identified in crustaceans.
- Behavioral studies suggest crustaceans are thermosensitive within a 0.2-2°C range.
- Planktonic crustaceans utilize klinokinesis and orthokinesis in response to temperature changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the thermosensitivity and thermal acclimation in crustaceans.
- To explore the role of thermal preference in crustacean fitness.
- To understand the neural basis of thermosensitivity and acclimation in crustaceans.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of behavioral studies on thermal avoidance and preference.
- Examination of temperature effects on crustacean motor activity.
- Review of thermal acclimation mechanisms, including resistance and capacity acclimation.
Main Results:
- Crustacean thermosensitivity is estimated between 0.2-2°C.
- Thermal behavior is modulated by acclimation processes.
- Concepts like stenothermy and eurythermy are difficult to apply to crustacean species.
- Thermal preference behavior often maximizes aerobic metabolic scope.
- The peripheral nervous system appears capable of independent thermosensitivity and acclimation.
Conclusions:
- Crustaceans possess thermosensitivity and acclimation capabilities, potentially mediated by the peripheral nervous system.
- Thermal behavior is crucial for fitness and metabolic efficiency in crustaceans.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of thermosensation and thermal regulation in crustaceans.