Distribution and seasonal dynamics of Boroecia maxima (Ostracoda: Halocypridinae) in the Arctic basin and adjacent Atlantic waters

Based on materials obtained during Soviet and Russian expeditions to the Arctic basin and adjacent Atlantic waters during the period from 1929–1993, as well as data from the literature, we examined the distribution range of the common deep-sea ostracod Boroecia maxima. This species occurs throughout the pelagic water column (down to 3000 m depth and below) and prefers low water temperatures (surface Arctic and intermediate water masses). During the year, at all depths, the ratio between age groups of B. maxima remains virtually unchanged. Breeding apparently continues year-round. During the polar night, B. maxima makes no migration into warm Atlantic water, where wintering predatory zooplankton occur in large numbers, and thus avoids grazing pressure.