Schnack-Schiel et al., 1991; Drits et al., 1993, 1994; Graeve et al., 1994; Pasternak et al., 1994; Atkinson, 1995; Albers et al., 1996; Hagen & Schnack-Schiel, The study of copepod life cycles is essential to the 1996). Pasternak & Schnack-Schiel (this volume) understanding of their role and function in aquatic discuss the diet and feeding of dominant Antarctic ecosystems. Due to the high latitudes, Polar Ocean copepods. ecosystems are governed by a distinct seasonality in The aim of this study is to compile data on the life primary production. Herbivorous copepods, which - cycle of copepods gained by the different approaches. clude many important species, are strongly affected by Emphasis was laid on a detailed description of life this production cycle. It has been shown that copepods cycle strategies of dominant species in order to c- have developed specific adaptations to utilise sho- prehend more clearly the differences in adaptation to term food pulses and to endure periods of food scarcity the polar environment.