The selection and ingestion of epilithic algae byNais elinguis (Oligochaeta: Naididae) |
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Authors: | D W Bowker M T Wareham M A Learner |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Applied Biology, UWIST, King Edward VII Avenue, CF1 3NU Cardiff, Wales |
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Abstract: | The gut contents ofNais elinguis in an organically polluted river were dominated by epilithic chlorophycean unicells and pennate diatoms with an average cell volume of 1.3 × 103 µm3. The worm unselectively and opportunistically ingested unicellular algae up to a maximum length of 196 µm and a maximum volume of 24 × 103 µm3, but colonial and filamentous algae were discriminated against. The morphometry of the pharynx ofN. elinguis probably determined the maximum size of algal cells which could be ingested. |
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Keywords: | Oligochaeta Naididae Epilithon grazing |
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