Larval Dispersal

Larval dispersal is the transport of planktonic larvae away from spawning sites by ocean currents during the pelagic larval duration, which sets population connectivity for most benthic and reef species. Dispersal distance depends on larval duration, swimming and settlement behavior, and the current field, ranging from meters in direct developers to hundreds of kilometers in long-lived planktotrophic larvae. Connectivity determines genetic exchange, recolonization after disturbance, and the spacing and size of marine protected area networks. It is studied with biophysical models, genetic parentage analysis, and otolith and shell microchemistry tracers.