The link between cypris temporary adhesion and settlement of Balanus balanoides (L.)

Abstract

A link between cypris temporary adhesion and settlement has often been alluded to, but never tested. Data are presented here which confirm earlier assumptions of a correlation between increased levels of settlement and greater forces of temporary adhesion of the cypris larvae of Balanus balanoides (L.).

Temporary adhesion reflects behaviour since cyprids with a propensity to swim exhibit mean forces of temporary adhesion significantly lower than cyprids with a propensity to explore surfaces (7.22 × 10⁴ N.m⁻² and 13.30 × 10⁴ N.m⁻² respectively). Furthermore, significantly more explorer cyprids in the assays settled than did swimmer cyprids (43% and 37% respectively).

Swimming and exploring behaviours are discussed in the context of a behavioural cascade, ultimately leading to settlement, motivated by positive physiological and environmental feedback. The behavioural sequence may be abandoned at almost any time in the face of unsuitable stimuli but the experience is likely to alter future acceptance thresholds towards surfaces.

Key words:

• cypris adhesion
• settlement
• Balanus balanoides
• behaviour

Notes

Corresponding author.