Larval Ecology

A priority in marine biological sciences is to increase quantitative measurements of the development and survival of larvae in the plankton. Seventy percent of marine species have planktonic larvae (a critical life-history stage), yet there is little information on their ecology. This reflects the difficulties associated with studying larvae in the plankton, where the advection by water currents rapidly disperse these stages. The lack of quantitative developmental and mortality data has hindered an understanding of many aspects of marine ecology, ranging from the effective management of economically important species, through to an understanding of the evolution of life-history strategies. our research aims to gain a better understanding of life-history strategy outcomes by examining the survival, development, and dispersal of planktotrophic and lecithotrophic echinoderm larvae within the plankton of Doubtful Sound. Specifically, we will carry out a quantitative and study on;

• Life-history strategies and larval development in crab and echinoderm species
  
• Dispersal of lecithotrophic and planktotrophic larvae within Doubtful Sound
  
• Rates of mortality of lecithotrophic and planktotrophic larvae
  
• Rates of development of lecithotrophic and planktotrophic larvae
  
• Rates of larval development and mortality in summer (high food) and winter (low food) conditions
  

Comparison between theoretical estimates of larval mortality with those measured in the fiord

Ultraviolet Radiation influences on invertebrate larval ecology

Larvae are a key stage of most marine species, and their rates of mortality and development are crucial life history parameters. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can have a deleterious effect on development and survival of larval stages, and will affect community composition if there are species-specific differences in the tolerance of these stages to UV radiation. This research will examine differences in UV tolerance of NZ invertebrate in Southern New Zealand.

We are particularly interested in sunscreening and anti-oxidant compounds in the embryos and larval stages. Differences in the concentration of these photo-protective compounds may influence the larvae's susceptibility to UV.

People

• Dr Steve Wing
• Dr Miles Lamare
• Associate Professor Mike Barker