Prey detection and capture in Temora longicornis: Mechanistic underpinning of rates and processes in plankton interactions

R. J. GONÇALVES

Sømine station, Holbæk

Encuentro; Joint meeting of Centre for Ocean Life and FNU-network Trait-based Plankton Ecology; 2012

Danish Natural Science Research Council and Technical University of Denmark

How do copepods detect and capture their preys? How far can a copepod perceive it´s preys´ signals? We use high-speed videography, particle image velocimetry and bottle incubation to gain insights into their functional responses to different preys. Temora longicornis can detect its preys only when they are within the reach of its appendages, by means of mechanoreception. Then they capture and decide, in miliseconds, if they ingest or reject the cell. There seems to be an optimum size ratio (prey vs copepods) for which ingestion and clearance rates are maxumal.