Summary
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1.
The rhythm of locomotor activity in the amphipodTalorchestia quoyana has been monitored in populations and individual animals for up to 105 days.
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2.
Control of the rhythm is dominated by a light sensitive circadian clock.
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3.
A circatidal clock inhibits activity at projected times of high tide on the beach of collection.
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4.
The circatidal clock can be entrained by 2 hr pulses of vibration.
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5.
In long term records of individual activity, there is evidence of a semi-monthly rhythm in total amount of activity. Minimum activity is correlated with spring tides.
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6.
Various models for the combined activity of the two clocks are discussed.
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Research was supported by the New Zealand University Grants Committee. Invaluable help with computer programs was kindly provided by the late Dr. R.M. Cassie, Professor of Biometry, Zoology Department, University of Auckland.
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Benson, J.A., Lewis, R.D. An analysis of the activity rhythm of the sand beach amphipod,Talorchestia quoyana . J. Comp. Physiol. 105, 339–352 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01379292
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01379292