Molly Zhongnan Jia – PhD confirmation seminar
Venue:  IMAS seminar room
Date:  8 June 2012 3:30 PM

Abstract:
Survival of early stages of Antarctic krill is very important for recruitment of the species. Larval krill are more sensitive than adults to environmental changes, and require adequate food for survival in the winter. Earlier studies indicate that krill larvae might rely on the sea ice algae as their main dietary resource, and they might also use the sea ice as a refuge from strong hydrographical movements and predators. My study will use three methods (microscopy, stable isotope analysis, and genetic analysis) to examine the diet of larval krill in late winter. By combining this dietary information with detailed metabolic measurements, I will be able to produce an energetic model for growth of krill larvae in the sea ice zone in that area. Also, this information will enable the evaluation of the significance of sea ice in the life cycle of krill.