Abstract

Seasonal data for one year on the flora and fauna associated with Cladophora albida (Huds.) Kutz from four rockpools (3 high-shore, 1 mid-shore) on Great Cumbrae Island, Firth of Clyde, Scotland are presented. A total of 131 858 animals was censussed. The mid-shore pool had a significantly lower annual mean density than the high-shore pools. Only at the most exposed site was a distinct seasonal trend apparent (lowest faunal density in spring, highest in summer). Species number showed no marked seasonal fluctuations neither did equitability. The lowest diversity was found in the mid-shore pool. Epiphytic cyanobacteria were present throughout the year. Diatoms were absent in the summer; possibly because of intense grazing by meiofaunal herbivores. The reduction in overall faunal density in the mid-shore pool was caused by the absence of large numbers of nematodes at this site related to the reduced availability of detritus and sand grains, perhaps reflecting greater wave scouring at this level on the shore....

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