Abstract
The concurrent role of morphodynamics and estuarine gradients in shaping population patterns in sandy beach macrofauna has not been adequately assessed. Here, we analyze the effects of beach morphodynamics, salinity, sea surface temperature, and chlorophyll-a (chl-a) on life-history traits of the wedge clam Donax hanleyanus in four sandy beaches located along the estuarine gradient generated by the Río de la Plata (RdlP, Argentina) over a 13-month period. A general linear model showed that chl-a and salinity were positively correlated with the abundance of D. hanleyanus, whereas between-beach differences in individual size, population structure, and growth performance were mainly explained by salinity fluctuations. These results indicate that the estuarine gradient of the RdlP plays a critical role in shaping life-history traits, population structure, and abundance of D. hanleyanus at local to regional scales, overriding the effects of local characteristics of the habitat. The study highlights the importance of conducting multi-scale studies that integrate environmental factors to elucidate the main physical drivers of population patterns in sandy beach ecosystems.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
