The influence of parasites on spawning success and egg quality in Antarctic krill

Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba, are key components of Southern Ocean ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles, as well as the target of a growing commercial fishery. Understanding the drivers of variability in krill recruitment is key to sustainably managing this fishery. One potential driver which has received little attention is the role of parasites. We investigated the impact of natural parasite infestations in adult female krill on egg production and egg quality around South Georgia. 18s DNA metabarcode sequencing was used to detect all eukaryotic parasites within krill bodies, while egg production was determined through incubation experiments, and egg quality was assessed using elemental analysis.