The relationship between the vertical distribution of spiny lobster phyllosoma larvae (Crustacea: Palinuridae) and isolume depths generated by a computer model

Abstract

Diel vertical migration (DVM) of spiny lobster (Panulirus spp.) phyllosoma larvae may be a key component in the biological-physical coupling which affects their transport and survival in the Florida Keys. Light is often invoked as the most important factor to influence DVM (AngeI 1985). In this study, we describe the diel changes in the vertical distribution of Panulirus spp. phyllosomata. We then use a computer model to hindcast irradiance in the water column associated with the vertical distribution patterns, and explore the possible correlation between them. The ability to predict the vertical distribution of phyllosomata with a light model will be useful in quantitative sampling and in the modeling of larval transport and recruitment mechanisms.