ISSN:
1572-8889
Keywords:
feeding behavior
;
morphology
;
Ephemerellidae
;
videomacroscopy
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract The feeding behavior and functional morphology associated with feeding in Ephemerella needhamiMcDunnough larvae were studied using videomacroscopic techniques, gut content analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. Two stereotypic feeding cycles were employed by the larvae. In the maxillary brushing cycle, the maxillae are the primary food-gathering organs, with the main food being detritus deposited on the filamentous alga Cladophora.In the mandibular biting cycle, the mandibles are the primary food-gathering organs used to bite Cladophora filaments.Epiphytic diatoms on Cladophorawere another important part of the diet. Behavioral similarities are apparent in the choreography and synchronization of mouthpart movements among mayflies from several families. Functional morphological comparisons are drawn with hypognathous E. needhami, Cloeon dipterum, Baetis rhodani,and Siphlonurus aestivalis, aswell as the prognathous Heptageniidae. Differences in mouthpart usage and structure are related to the relative development of setal fields and combs and the feeding microhabitat.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01052336
