Seasonal variation in ash and calorific content of Idotea baltica (Pallas) (Crustacea:Isopoda)

Abstract
Ash, calorific, and carbonate contents were determined monthly for Idotea baltica from Cape Blomidon, N.S. Although changes in calories per gram dry weight (1 cal = 4.1868 J) were correlated with reproductive effort, variations in the ash-free calorific value were difficult to interpret because of considerable changes in ash content. In mature animals, variation in percent ash was apparently associated with gametogenesis but ash variation in immature animals could not be explained. The importance of adequate carbonate corrections in bomb calorimetry is emphasized.