Survival experiments with outplanted seedlings of surfgrass (Phyllospadix torreyi) to enhance establishment on artificial structures

Abstract

Surfgrass (Phyllospadix torreyi) is considered a valuable plant for enhancing biogenic habitat on artificial structures on the west coast of North America. Its populations establish only slowly, prompting efforts to develop techniques to accelerate the process. We present results from outplanting tests of laboratory-reared seedlings in their natural environment using various techniques. Survival rates after 3 months were compared with those of naturally recruited seedlings. Seedlings require a host plant during their early stages, and both natural hosts (algae) and artificial hosts (nylon strings and nets attached to the bottom) were tested. Survival of naturally recruited seedlings was only 30%, and only in the case where seedlings were hooked into braided nylon netting glued to the substrate were comparable survival rates observed. The results suggest that using this technique may be a promising approach to establishing populations of P. torreyi on artificial structures. Copyright 2002 International Council for the Exploration of the Sea. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.