[Behavioral and physiological ecology of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba): A review]

Behavioral and physiological ecology are two important research aspects of ecological field. Related studies help us better understand the marine animal's habit and adaptability to environment. Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba, thereafter krill) is a key-stone species in the Southern Ocean. Understanding its behavioral and physiological ecology can understand the ability of marine organisms such as krill to cope with extreme environment. We summarized the typical ecological characteristics of krill from both aspects of behavioral ecology and physiological ecology. Behavioral ecology included its swarming (size and behavior) and swimming (angle, beat of pleopod), while physiological ecology included respiration, excretion, metabolism, molting and growth. Generally, the studies on behavioral and physiological ecology of krill were very limited, and many studies were based on land-based krill aquarium. In view of the large difference between land-based aquarium and natural environment of krill, it's extremely urgent to develop the in-situ experimental ecology of krill in the sea.