LATITUDINAL VARIATION IN THE REPRODUCTIVE CYCLE AND SIZE OF THE NORTHERN ROCK BARNACLE SEMIBALANUS BALANOIDES (L.) (CIRRIPEDIA, ARCHAEOBALANIDAE) IN THE BAY OF FUNDY.

The reproductive phenology and size of populations of Semibalanus balanoides were studied at four sites along a latitudinal gradient in the Bay of Fundy. Animals were collected from May 2006 through January 2007, their basal widths measured and the first appearance of immature oocytes, mature oocytes, brooded embryos, and sperm scored. Proceeding from south to north, there was a significant decline in the size of the barnacles and a delay in appearance of all stages. The possible effects of temperature and turbidity are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]