Locomotor activity in Branchipus schaefferi (Fischer, 1834) (Branchiopoda: Anostraca) under thermal variation

Abstract

The behavioral responses of Branchipus schaefferi Fisher, 1834 males and females to short-term thermal stress in six different rearing conditions are studied. The swimming performance was tested in pure tap water and water collected from both male and female culture mediums. The animal's behavior was recorded using a high-definition digital video camera mounted approximately 30 cm above the experimental containers. The swimming track and the thoracopod beating rates were recorded manually for each animal at different temperatures. The results indicate that in most cases, a significant increase in active swimming and limb beating rate occurred with increasing temperature. However, the animals tested in the different male and female culture medium were significantly less active compared to those in tap water, under similar thermal stress. Animals seem to produce substances in the culture media that influence their locomotor behavior under thermal stress.

Keywords
Anostraca; beating rate; behavior; locomotion; thermal stress