Abstract
Abstract This study describes the spatial distribution and trophic structure of the polychaetes inhabiting the soft-bottoms of Alfacs Bay, a semi-enclosed, shallow-water area (Ebro Delta, north-western Mediterranean). The hydrographic regime is basically marine, with a combination of sea-water renewal and continental runoff causing permanent stratification. The Bay was affected by anthropogenic activities (viz. influx of irrigation waters, large-scale aquaculture, and periodical dredging at the mouth). 41 samples were taken during summer (July 1987 and September 101 polychaete species were identified, with an average density and biomass of 6370(650-23700) ind.m-2 and 7.52(0.87-66) DWgm-2, respectively. Nine assemblages were identified: shelf (stressed, confined, typical), boundary, deep central basin (inner, typical, seaward) and marine (typical, navigation channel). The trophic structure was dominated by deposit-feeding polychaetes (mainly Pseudomastus deltaicus, Heteromastus filiformis, Notomastus later...
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