Ecology of a tidal marsh corixid,Trichocorixa verticalis (Insecta,Hemiptera)

The high marsh panne ecosystem at Adam's Point, N. H. provides a particular opportunity for holistic, yet autecological approach to the natural history of Trichocorixa verticalis var. sellaris (Corixidae). This area was dominated by physical and chemical factors associated with highly variable salinities (1 to 160) and temperatures (–1 to 40°C) caused by irregular tidal flooding and neap tidal dry periods.Trichocorixa verticalis reach a maximum density of 26,914/m² (x = 3,909.6/m²) in open shallow pannes, where eggs hatch in staggered sequence, allowing population replenishment after drought and reflooding. Winter eggs hatched between salinities of 0 to 30 at 20°C and 0 to 20 at 10°C. Summer eggs hatched between salinities of 0 to 55 at variable temperatures (20 to 36°C). All instars showed a similar higher summer and lower fall tolerance; immatures were more tolerant than adults. Body molt measurements of the 6 instars are given here.Aside from being herbivores and detritivores, T, verticalis feed on chironomid larvae and oligochaetes. They are food for invertebrates and vertebrates, and provide substantial food for migratory shorebirds.The experimental work was based on a thesis submitted to the Graduate School of the University of New Hampshire in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.