ABSTRACT: Various studies during the past 8 yr have revealed that numerous species of diatoms, especially at bloom concentrations, can negatively affect the viability of eggs and the condition of nauplii of calanoid copepods. This has been observed during in situ and experimental investigations. Other in situ and experimental studies found no negative effects on reproduction rates and egg viability. Here an attempt is made to evaluate these different findings; in addition, consideration is given to future studies, and several hypotheses are formulated.

KEY WORDS: Diatoms · Planktonic copepods · Egg viability

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Published in MEPS Vol. 227 (2002) on February 13
Print ISSN: 0171-8630; Online ISSN: 1616-1599. Copyright © Inter-Research, Oldendorf/Luhe, 2002