G. Tarling et al., An optimisation model of the diel vertical migration of northern krill (Meganyctiphanes norvegica) in the Clyde Sea and the Kattegat, CAN J FISH, 57, 2000, pp. 38-50
Citations number
38
Categorie Soggetti
Aquatic Sciences
Journal title
CANADIAN JOURNAL OF FISHERIES AND AQUATIC SCIENCES
An optimisation model was developed to examine the effect of predation risk
and environmental conditions on the diel vertical migration (DVM) of adult
northern krill (Meganyctiphanes norvegica). Model predictions were compare
d in two locations with contrasting environmental conditions, the Clyde Sea
and the Kattegat. The model was constructed from a combination of paramete
rised functions and empirical field data obtained during summer conditions.
Parameter matrices were set up to cover the entire water column over a 24-
h period. The first matrix contained values for "net energy gain," which in
corporated empirical data on temperature-dependent respiration, copepod and
phytoplankton abundance, and a functional response model for feeding rate.
The second matrix expressed the risk of encountering a generalised visual
(fish) predator as a function of light levels. The optimisation procedure s
ought a path through depth and time such that the energy gain was equal to
the amount necessary to grow, produce eggs, and moult, while the risk of pr
edation was minimised. The model predicted DVM in both the Clyde Sea and th
e Kattegat. Sensitivity analyses showed that the predicted DVM pattern was
mainly driven by food and predation risk, with temperature effects on metab
olic costs: having a minor effect.