Community development and persistence in a low rocky intertidal zone
Lubchenco, J.; Menge, B.A. (1978). Community development and persistence in a low rocky intertidal zone. Ecol. Monogr. 48: 67-94
In: Ecological Monographs. Ecological Society of America: Tempe, Ariz., etc.,. ISSN 0012-9615; e-ISSN 1557-7015, more
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| Keywords |
Ecological zonation
Environments > Aquatic environment > Marine environment > Intertidal environment
ANW, USA, New England [Marine Regions]
Marine/Coastal |
| Authors | | Top |
- Lubchenco, J.
- Menge, B.A.
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| Abstract |
Observations from the intertidal zone of New England, supplemented by experimental manipultions, provide the basis for an analysis of the factors controlling the distribution, abundance and diversity of space users on rocky shores. Predation appears to exert an overriding influence on the community at protected sites, as exhibited by inter-actions of Asterias spp and Thais lapillus predating Mytilus edulis. Wave shock controls the abundance of periwinkles and algae, Chondrus crispus being the best indicator of this. Herbivores are of negligible importance to the community as a whole. Chondrus and Mytilus distribution emphasise the complexity of factors which combine to produce the distribution patterns observed, and although predation is the principal control in the absence of high-energy waves, the rate and development of succession is mediated via the influence of secondary factors including wave action, herbivory and other interactions. |
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