The sex specific metabolic footprint of Oithona davisae

• We developed a simple method to extract, capture and test metabolites from small planktonic organisms.
• We are able to remove the female sex pheromone from seawater using solid phase extraction columns.
• We find sexual differences in exudate composition, reflecting the sexual dimorphism.

In pelagic copepods, the group representing the highest animal abundances on earth, males and females have distinct morphological and behavioural differences. In several species female pheromones are known to facilitate the mate finding process, and copepod exudates induce changes in physiology and behaviour in several phytoplankton species. Here we tested whether the sexual dimorphism in morphology and behaviour is mirrored in the exudate composition of males and females. We find differences in the exudate composition, with females seemingly producing more compounds. While we were able to remove the sex pheromones from the water by filtration through reverse phase solid phase extraction columns, we were not able to recover the active pheromone from the solid phase.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide