Benthic invertebrate assemblages of Delaware Bay

摘要: During two consecutive summers, the first quantitative bay-wide survey (207 stations) of benthic invertebrates was conducted in Delaware Bay (USA). In 1972, 109 species were collected at 105 stations; and 1973, 125 102 stations. A total 169 different for both summers. The number individuals increased with increasing salinity median grain size. These relationships compared found similar to those estuaries bays throughout world. Average density 722 m2, which is low other estuaries. relationship secondary production pollution, macroscopic algae, sediment transport, predation, hydrography discussed. Deposit feeders comparised major feeding type. Local composition that Chesapeake Bay, dominant occurred Mid-Atlantic Bight. related cosmopolitan mode estuarine faunas. Faunal assemblages identified by cluster analysis. associated type salinity. It concluded comprises a mosaic animal assemblages, some have relatively sharp boundaries classical level bottom communities, whereas others are almost impossible detect, these represent distributed along an environmental continum.