Sexual size dimorphism in calanoid copepods (Centropagidae) from Patagonia (Argentina

GARCIA, R. D.; PATRICIA E., GARCIA; REISSIG, M

NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF MARINE AND FRESHWATER RESEARCH

RSNZ PUBLISHING

Lugar: Auckland; Año: 2013 vol. 47 p. 504 - 514

0028-8330

Calanoid copepods of the genus Boeckella and Parabroteas (P. sarsi) are dominant inzooplankton communities of Patagonian lakes and ponds. This study addresses the occurrenceof sexual size dimorphism in calanoid copepods of the genus Boeckella and in the monospecificgenus Parabroteas occurring in 12 lakes and ponds of Patagonia (Argentina). The morphometricanalysis performed showed that in all the species studied the female is larger than the male,although the difference in size among sexes was found to be variable between species. Interestingly,all species showed significant intraspecific stability in their sexual size dimorphismdespite potential differences in their environments regarding predation pressure, environmentalstability (permanent or temporary waters) and altitude distribution of populations. Finally, wediscuss the potential implications of sexual dimorphism in terms of resource use and vulnerabilityto predation among other environmental forces which may play a role in promotinglarger female to male size.