The longevity of three generations of normal and pollution-impacted Acartia clausi (Copepoda) populations in the Saronicos Gulf (Greece)

The longevity of two populations of the planktonic copepod Acartia clausi in the Saronicos Gulf was estimated. One group lived in a heavily polluted area, the other group in a relatively clean area. Three annual generations were studied. A comparison was also made between fed and unfed animals. A temperature of 14°C appeared to be the most favourable for the survival of Acartia; however, the optimum survival temperature depended also upon the generation to which the Acartia belonged. The acclimatization temperature has a strong influence on survival. Acartia in its natural environment thrives best and has maximum longevity at colder temperatures. The pollution-adapted Acartia population survived longer under laboratory-controlled conditions than the population living in a non-polluted area.