An individual-based population model for the prediction of rotifer population dynamics and resting egg production

Authored by M O Alver, A Hagiwara

Date Published: 2007

DOI: 10.1007/s10750-007-9043-z

Sponsors: No sponsors listed

Platforms: No platforms listed

Model Documentation: Other Narrative Flow charts

Model Code URLs: Model code not found

Abstract

Most species of rotifers have a combination of sexual and asexual reproduction, with sexual reproduction resulting in resting eggs, which can lay dormant for long periods. The occurrence of sexual reproduction affects population dynamics through the temporary presence of male rotifers, and a reduction in the growth of the number of female rotifers. A previously published, individual-based model used dynamic energy budget theory to describe rotifer food intake, growth, egg production, and mortality, but assumed asexual reproduction only. In the current study, we have expanded the model to describe the entire reproductive cycle of the rotifers, making it usable for investigating relationships, such as those between the signal triggering mictic egg production, and the timing and number of resting eggs produced. The model is intended for use in predicting the specific future development of cultures, for instance, as a process model in rotifer or resting egg production for aquaculture.

Tags

Sexual reproduction Brachionus-plicatilis rotifera Mixis