Influence of the tidal and rainfall cycles on the population structure and density of Mesacanthion hirsutum gerlach (nematoda, thoracostomopsidae) on a tropical sandy beach (Tamandaré Bay, Pernambuco, Brazil)

摘要: The population structure (males, females and juveniles) density of Mesacanthion hirsutum Gerlach were studied during the tides (low, flood, high ebb) two consecutive tidal cycles in four different months year (May, July, September November). variations showed association with rainfall cycle, lower densities July significantly higher values May November. was constituted mostly by juveniles indicating a continuous reproduction all period. There no significant differences between light dark periods day, however, detected ebb stages demonstrate that this species could be dispersing through water column and/or migrating within sediment.