Krill Question..

[Charlie_Scorp]

Just a quicky:

Why are krill found much more rarely in clear, tropical waters?

Thanks guys...

 

[roach dude]

I think its because the algie on what they feed on is less abundent....thats of the top of my head...no sure realy...:?

 

[Charlie_Scorp]

Yeah, think there's probably stronger predation pressures too. They feed at night at the surface and then sink down. They lay their eggs at at the top and these sink to hatch at the bottom. Maybe egg eating predators are more prevelant here too...not too sure.
Thanks for your answer...

 

[roach dude]

Mabye if the reefs are shallow they may not beable to sink down and not be able to live with constant warm temps....:? :?

 

[Vermis]

Why are krill found much more rarely in clear, tropical waters?

Because they're clear.

Heat, IIRC. Warm water carries less oxygen and that fouls things up right off. Polar waters are actually far more productive, especially when phytoplankton can photosynthesise almost round the clock in the summer.

 

[roach dude]

^^^ look who listened in school ;P ;P