Population dynamics of Amphiura chiajei (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) in Killary Harbour, on the west coast of Ireland

Abstract

The infaunal ophiuroid Amphiura chiajei Forbes is a dominant member of the A. chiajei community in Killary Harbour, a fjord-like inlet on the west coast of Ireland. High density populations (∼700 individuals/ m2) occur in sediments with a silt/clay content of 80 to 90% and organic carbon levels of ∼5 to 7%. A study of the population dynamics of this species was carried out from November 1985 to October 1988. At the outset, the population consisted of approximately equal numbers of adults and juveniles. By October 1988, the percentage of adults had increased to ∼95%, with little or no change in the mean annual dersities. However, there was some degree of variability between the mean monthly densities. Such variability may have been due to very low bottom temperatures, resulting in mortality among the older members of the population. Observations suggest that in Killary Harbour the species may attain an age of ≥10 yr, with an early annual growth rate of ∼0.5 mm (oral width). Annual recruitment was variable and low, due presumably to intraspecific competition with the adults; recruitment success may be very closely linked to adult mortality. The Killary Harbour findings are considered in the light of what is currently known of similar amphiurid populations in different geographical locations.