Patterns of nematode populations in the southwestern North Sea and their link to other components of the benthic fauna

摘要: This article describes the major features of nematode assemblages collected at 19 stations in southwestern North Sea and identifies dominant species within communities relation to environmental parameters anthropogenic activities. Patterns observed for meiobenthic nematodes were compared with those from larger-sized benthic fauna. Correlation analyses populations varied substrate occurring study area revealed that locations similar sediment type water depth also most faunistically. The combined analysis different faunal groups showed a notable similarity between distribution patterns this was partly based on common affinities particular habitat conditions. influence factors related granulometry generally decreased increasing size mobility group investigated. In terms diversity composition, encountered comparable environments worldwide. As evident sediment, contaminant analyses, acute effects human activities seem unlikely.