A comparison of the leaf shredding ability and influence on microbial films of surface and cave forms of Gammarus minus Say

摘要: Gammarus minus has both cave and surface forms that differ considerably in their morphology. We experimentally compared the ability of these two to consume leaves influence activity microbial films associated with leaves. Both G. were effective leaf shredders, equally efficient at converting small particles. found little relationship between amphipod size rate which they shredded stimulated respiration microbes by 32–52%. Cave had a 15% greater stimulatory effect on respiration. The is evident streams as well laboratory. It appears plays particularly important role systems fine particles stimulating are foods for many animals.