Abstract
Abstract. We consider here the dynamics of two polychaete populations based on a 20 yr temporal benthic survey of two muddy fine sand communities in the Bay of Morlaix, Western English Channel. These populations display high temporal variability, which is analyzed here using scaling approaches. We find that population densities have heavy tailed probability density functions. We analyze the dynamics of relative species abundance in two different communities of polychaetes by estimating in a novel way a "mean square drift" coefficient which characterizes their fluctuations in relative abundance over time. We show the usefulness of using new tools to approach and model such highly variable population dynamics in marine ecosystems.
Highlights
One of the key features of environmental and geophysical field studies is their high variability at many different time and space scales
We analyze the dynamics of relative species abundance in two different communities of polychaetes by estimating in a novel way a “mean square drift” coefficient which characterizes their fluctuations in relative abundance over time
We show the usefulness of using new tools to approach and model such highly variable population dynamics in marine ecosystems
Summary
One of the key features of environmental and geophysical field studies is their high variability at many different time and space scales Because of these external influences and because of the stochasticity introduced by the reproduction and predator prey processes, population dynamics are characterized by high variability over time and space (Pimm and Redfearn, 1988; Blarer and Doebeli, 1999; Ferriere and Cazelles, 1999; Inchausti and Halley, 2001; Schmitt et al, 2008). Polychaetes colonize a large range of soft and hard marine sediment habitats, from intertidal to hadal (parts of the ocean below 6000 m) zones This group often dominates benthic macrofauna (Gremare et al, 1998) and has been shown to constitute a good surrogate for describing its distribution (Olsgard et al, 2003); they can be used as markers of different ecological conditions (Gambi and Giangrande, 1986).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
