Abstract
Variation in the abundance of Barleeia unifasciata is compared in several red algal species between June 1978 and June 1980 at Cooskeen Cove, Bantry Bay, Ireland. Population abundance in all algae varied seasonally, exhibiting a cycle of late-summer to autumn maxima, with winter to early summer minima. Greatest abundance was recorded in those algae which formed compact turf-like growths suitable for the entrapment of diatoms and detrital material and provided greatest shelter from wave-crash. Length frequency data showed the main recruitment period to be late June-October with a peak in August with juveniles present in all months of the year. Maximum life span was shown to be 2 years or more with only 15 % of the population surviving into the second year. Sexual development and reproductive cycle was determined for 0 + and 1 + animals. Mature males produced sperm continuously throughout the year. Not all 0 + females spawned in their first year. Summer spawning 0 + females exhibited reduced sexual activity in October and spawned again in the following summer. Some 1 + females spawned in winter and spring. Delayed sexual development in some individuals of both sexes was related to late hatching.
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