Zooplankton respiration

Abstract

This chapter reviews metazooplankton (>200 μm) respiration in aquatic systems. It discusses methodology, modifying agents (physical, chemical, and biological factors), definitions, and carbon equivalents. The major determinants of zooplankton respiration rate are argued to be body mass and temperature. The causes underlying temporal and spatial (vertical and horizontal) variations in metazooplankton community respiration (as a product of specific respiration rate and biomass) in nature are discussed, with special reference to the mesoscale variations linked with frontal systems, eddies, and filaments of upwellings. Evidence is given that respiration of vertically migrating zooplankton contributes to downward carbon flux in the oceans. Metazooplankton respiration is reviewed in terms of latitudinal patterns and variation with depth (epi, meso, and bathypelagic zones).