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Observations on the biology and submergence behaviour of some littoral beetles

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 May 2009

P. D. Evans ,
C. N. E. Ruscoe  and
J. E. Treherne
P. D. Evans
Affiliation:
Department Of Zoology, University Of Cambridge
C. N. E. Ruscoe
Affiliation:
Department Of Zoology, University Of Cambridge
J. E. Treherne
Affiliation:
Department Of Zoology, University Of Cambridge
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Summary

The four species studied (Bledius spectabilis, Heterocerus fenestratus, Dichirotrichus pubescens and Cillenus lateralis) are most commonly found in a region delimited by the anaerobic mud of the lower bank and the dense marsh bordering the drainage channels in tidal salt-marshes at Scolt Head Island, Norfolk.

Experimental submersion of the beetles in sea water was found to induce an apparent anoxic condition which was associated with a drastic reduction in oxygen consumption. On return to air there was a large increase in oxygen consumption characteristic of an appreciable oxygen debt.

The use of the physiological responses to submergence as an indicator of effective contact with water revealed that their subterranean mode of life largely prevents direct exposure of the beetles to sea water in natural conditions. A significant proportion of Heterocerus fenestratus were, however, found to be vulnerable to flooding by sea water during tidal coverage of the burrow system.

These results are considered in relation to the observations made on the behaviour and burrowing activity of the various species.

Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom , Volume 51 , Issue 2 , May 1971 , pp. 375 - 386
Copyright
Copyright © Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 1971

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References

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