title: Analysis of behavioural rejection of micro-textured surfaces and implications for recruitment by the barnacle Balanus improvisus.
abstract: Experiments performed in the field and in the laboratory show that the barnacle, Balanus improvisus, preferentially settles on smooth surfaces. Settlement and recruitment of B. improvisus was evaluated on micro-textured surfaces with scales of surface texture ranging from 1 to 100 µm in profile heights. Surface texture with profile heights within a topographic range of 30-45 µm reduced settlement and recruitment by 92% as compared to smooth surfaces. The reduction in recruitment on micro-textured surfaces is best explained by behavioural responses to surface topography. Behavioural experiments show that cyprids have a higher propensity for smooth surfaces than for micro-textured surfaces. Cyprids spend more time exploring smooth surfaces and more time swimming when exposed to micro-textured surfaces. Micro-textured surfaces are more often rejected by cyprids after exploration than smooth surfaces. It is suggested that some scales of surface texture could be exploited to improve future anti-fouling techniques in geographical areas where Balanus improvisus is a severe fouling problem.
authors.affiliation: Tjärnö Marine Biological Laboratory, Göteborg University, SE-452 96, Strömstad, Sweden
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Berntsson
authors.initials: PR
authors.lastname: Jonsson
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lejhall
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Gatenholm