Ecology of marine algae on rocky shores and subtidal reefs in temperate Australia

Abstract

Experiments in intertidal and subtidal rocky marine habitats in temperate Australia have identified the effects of various biological and physical factors on algal assemblages. In intertidal habitats, these involve micro- and macro-algae and grazing by gastropods. In subtidal habitats, interactions among micro- and macro-algae, echinoids, gastropods, micro-invertebrates and sessile invertebrates have been studied. Experimental studies on physical disturbances of algal assemblages have focussed on the effects of desiccation and storms. Most studies have not considered more than one spatial or temporal scale. Few have been concerned with seasonal influences and fewer have been concerned with variation from year to year. Most of the work lacks applicability to biogeographic comparisons. More experimental work across a variety of spatial and temporal scales is required to determine significant biological and physical processes affecting structure of algal assemblages across broad areas of temperate Australia.