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Full-Text Articles in Life Sciences
Metamorphosis Of Limulus Polyphemus Trilobite Larvae: Role Of Chemical And Structural Cues, Competency, And The Cost Of Delayed Metamorphosis, Stephanie Marie Kronstadt
Metamorphosis Of Limulus Polyphemus Trilobite Larvae: Role Of Chemical And Structural Cues, Competency, And The Cost Of Delayed Metamorphosis, Stephanie Marie Kronstadt
Theses and Dissertations
Many marine and estuarine arthropods exhibit complex life cycles that include planktonic larval stages and benthic juvenile and adult phases. Chemical and structural cues associated with juvenile habitats often induce settlement and metamorphosis, thereby shortening the duration of the larval phase. These cues can trigger metamorphosis only after larvae reach competency, or developmental maturity. The point at which larvae reach this competency period and the ability to retain competency is highly species specific. Once competency is attained, a decrease in the time to metamorphosis (TTM) can decrease dispersal potential but may increase the chance of settling in a suitable habitat. …
Human Influences On Anuran Distribution Changes In The Southeastern U.S.A., Michelle Diane Luce
Human Influences On Anuran Distribution Changes In The Southeastern U.S.A., Michelle Diane Luce
Theses and Dissertations
As human populations continue to expand and grow, ecosystems and the species that inhabit them face ever-increasing stress. To conserve these ecosystems, scientists use indicator species to try to measure the impact of human-induced pressures on the environment. Anurans are exceptional indicator species because they are often the first vertebrates to respond to the direct and indirect effects of land use by humans. Sparse historical data have made it difficult to map the ‘natural’ distribution of many species and, therefore, to map any changes in distribution range as a result of human expansion. This study sought to address the lack …