Distribution of Lucifer faxoni (Crustacea: Decapoda: Sergestidae) in neritic waters off the Texas coast, with a note on the occurrence of Lucifer typus.
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Abstract
Seasonal variation in abundance was exhibited by Lucifer faxoni in Texas neritic waters in 1962; the population increased in nearshore waters in August-September and declined in October-November. During the remainder of the year the animals were dispersed widely over the study area. Large numbers of larvae in peak populations suggest that August-November is the period of maximum reproductive activity of L. faxoni. Larval abundance decreased markedly beyond the nearshore (14 m) stations, indicating that reproduction is confined primarily to nearshore waters. Water movements in the study area combined with the vertical migration pattern of L. faxoni may be instrumental in initiating the population increase by concentrating adults in nearshore water, facilitating mating. Population density may be related to increasing water temperature and the autumnal phytoplankton bloom. The occurrence of Lucifer typus in Texas neritic waters is noted.