The population dynamics of Porcellio Scaber, latr (Crustacea Isopoda) in waste grassland in New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Zoology at Massey University

Abstract

The dynamics of an isopod (Porcellio acaber) population in waste grassland are described. Three different generations can be distinguished on the basis of size distributions. A difference in age structure and sex ratio is seen in two areas of the study region. Overall there are more females than males. A cohort of 1000 individuals can produce 6000 young in a year, but only 10% of these survive to become sexually mature. Isopods provide a significant reservoir of calcium in the environment.