Aquarium observations on vertical zonation and bottom relationships of some deep-living hyperbenthic mysids (Crustacea: Mysidacea)

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Abstract
Animals for aquarium observations were collected at depths of 220–240 m west of Bergen, Norway, using an epibenthic sledge. A special constructed cod-end protected the animals from mechanical damage and exposure to light. The animals were observed in simulated habitat light conditions by means of an infra-red viewing system. The vertical distribution above the sediment in light and darkness was observed for Boreomysis megalops, Erythrops serrata, Hemimysis abyssicola and Mysideis insigrtis and confirmed that light conditions had great impact on the behaviour. Behavioural notes on six other mysids are given and deep-living fjord mysids are classified into five groups with different association to the bottom, from pelagic species found near the bottom to burrowing species. The zonations in the aquarium were in good agreement with zonation data from nature. Aquarium studies are, however, superior for revealing the microdistribution immediately above the sediment.