Life History and Abundance of Mysis relicta in Lake Michigan

Abstract
Mysis relicta was sampled in Lake Michigan approximately monthly with an epibenthic sled, August 1975–July 1976. Total numbers ranged from a low of 23 m−2 in February to a high of 337 m−2 in May and averaged 188 m−2. It was possible to partition the population into five instars. Major peaks in proportions of first instar individuals occurred in March, July, and November. It took about 1 yr for first instar individuals to reach the fourth instar. Growth averaged a little less than 1 mm/mo. Males and females reached maturity and bred in the fourth instar, so females produced their first brood at 1 yr of age. Males died at this time, but females were found to molt to the fifth instar, mate, and produce a second brood approximately 4 mo later. Key words: Mysis relicta, Lake Michigan, life history, abundance

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