Post-naupliar development of the Calanoid Copepod Temora turbinata (Dana), with remarks on the distribution of the species of the genus Temora in the Indian Ocean

Abstract

The post-naupliar developmental stages of Temora turbinata(Copepodites I to VI) are described and illustrated. The differences in the meristic characters associated with growth have been investigated. The segmentation and setation of the maxillipeds of copepodid stages offer important criteria for separating the different stages. Special attention has been given to study the developmental sequence of the mandibular teeth as the teeth structure helps to understand the feeding habits of these stages.