The distribution of phosphorus (P) was assessed in homogeneously P-33-label
ed Daphnia magna, Daphnia galeata and Eudiaptomus gracilis. The specific P
contents were 1.48, 1.41, and 0.50% of dry weight (DW), respectively. The r
esults support the view of low intraspecific variability in P: DW ratios in
crustacean zooplankton. The fraction of P allocated to nucleic acids, phos
pholipids, and other P compounds was assessed in D. galeata and E. gracilis
. In both species, the major pool, 35-69% of the total P content, was assoc
iated with nucleic acids. This fraction decreased with both body size (age)
of D. galeata and E. gracilis and with the reproductive rate of D. galeata
. D. magna and D. galeata revealed similar patterns of P allocation between
body, carapace, and eggs. The carapace contained approximately 14% of the
total P content. If most P is not reabsorbed from the exoskeleton prior to
molting, the molting will result in a substantial P drain both from the ind
ividual and, at times, from the entire planktonic system.