Life-history and production of the amphipod Gammarus pulex in a Dorset chalk stream

SUMMARY. The seasonal variation in population density of Gammarus pulex was studied in a Dorset chalk stream. The numbers increased markedly in June and July and reached a maximum of c. 10000m^?2 in September whilst the most rapid decline in density occurred in October-November and reached a minimum of 820 m^?2 in February. The animals occurred in greater densities in habitats containing Ranunculus or Callitriche than in those devoid of vegetation. The population structure was determined monthly and was split into juveniles (length <4mm), immature males, immature females, mature males and ovigerous females. The percentage of juveniles (39–76) was always the highest of any of the categories. Ovigerous females were found at all times of the year. The sex ratio varied with the time of year both for immatures and matures, although there was approximately a 1:1 ratio for the mature individuals. Seasonal variation in biomass showed a maximum of 7.l g dry wt m^?2 in September and a minimum of 1.4 g dry wt m^?2 in March. Production was calculated by two methods giving values of 12.9 g dry wt m^?2 year^?1 and 12.8 g dry wt m^?2 year^?1.