The biology of oniscid Isopoda of the genus Tylos
In: Blaxter, J.H.S.; Southward, A.J. (Ed.) (1994). Adv. Mar. Biol. 30. Advances in Marine Biology, 30. Academic Press: London. ISBN 0-12-026130-8; e-ISBN 978-0-12-026130-7. IX, 364 pp., more In: Advances in Marine Biology. Academic Press: London, New York. ISSN 0065-2881; e-ISSN 2162-5875, more |  |
| Keywords | Isopoda [WoRMS]
Marine/Coastal |
| Authors | | Top | - Brown, A.C.
- Odendaal, F.J.
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| Abstract | This chapter discusses the biology of Oniscid isopoda of genus Tyros. Terrestrial Crustacea in general evolved from marine ancestors via the marine intertidal zone. This transition involved extensive adaptations, especially with regard to locomotion, respiration, water balance, ionic regulation, and heat relationships. Various scientists have studied the behavior of the genus Tyros. The findings from their studies are summarized in the chapter. From these studies, it is concluded that the genus Tyros represents a condition intermediate between the truly marine and the fully terrestrial. This is illustrated through a wide gradient of behavior, from populations extremely dependent on the sea to populations that have adopted a virtually terrestrial way of life and display an attenuation of the tidal rhythm typical of the genus. Behavioral adaptations are also dependent on this gradient and are discusses in the chapter. |
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