| Oxygen consumption of juvenile prawns, Penaeus japonicus , was measured during the day at 4 temperatures (23, 26, 30 and 33 degree C) and at various oxygenation levels. For inactive prawns burrowed into sand, respiratory metabolism was maintained almost constant in hypoxia above a critical oxygen pressure of about 30-40 Torr. Data analysis according to a hyperbolic model indicates that the capacity for metabolic regulation was optimal between 26 and 30 degree C. Prawns acclimated 1-2 weeks at 20 degree C in moderate hypoxia (P sub(O2) around 50-55 Torr) showed a reinforced regulation of oxygen consumption when compared to normoxic controls. |
