Reproductive adaption as a survival strategy to life in an arid environment: The terrestrial crustacean Hemilepistus reaumurii as a model

Abstract The structure and dynamics of the natural population of Hemilepistus reaumurii, a terrestrial desert isopod, were studied. Results showed a well-balanced overall sex-ratio revealing a stable population. It was a seasonal reproduction with one breeding period, occurring in spring. Overall, analysis of the size-frequency showed the presence of three cohorts during the 18 months of monitoring. Lifespan was estimated at 14 months. H. reaumurii appeared as an annual species, with semelparous females that exhibited a univoltine life cycle. Furthermore, results showed, for the first time in this specie, that males have larger body lengths and masses than females. This may suggest strongly the development of a sexual body length and mass dimorphism in this species.