Intertidal Assemblages On Artifical Structures And Natural Rocky Habitats On Taiwan'S North Coast

Abstract

Differences in intertidal assemblages between artifi cial structures and natural rocky habitats require further investigation, so that the potential effects of artifi cial structures on coastal intertidal community can be better understood. We examined the intertidal assemblages on breakwaters, seawalls, and natural rocky shores in the Linshanbi and Houcuo fi shing ports on the northern coast of Taiwan. Nine seawater parameters were measured at each sampling site in Dec.2010, Mar.2011, and Jun.2011. Intertidal assemblages on seawalls were largely distinct from those on breakwaters or natural rocky shores. The taxa that contributed most to the differences among habitats were algae, barnacles, oysters, and limpets. Limpets, red algae, and green algae were less abundant on seawalls compared to breakwaters or the natural rocky shore. Fewer intertidal organisms existed on seawalls than on breakwaters and natural rocky shores. The mobile organisms on breakwaters were similar to those on natural rocky shores. However, during the growing season, a greater number of mobile organisms were found on natural rocky shores than on breakwaters. We suggest that differences in seawater quality, which might relate to the presence of artifi cial structures, could affect the abundance of intertidal organisms. Further information is required on important factors in artifi cial structures that affect intertidal assemblages, in various coastal areas, to help conserve intertidal biodiversity.