Effects of green algal mats on infaunal colonization of a New England mud flat — long-lasting but highly localized effects

摘要: The response of benthic infauna to green algal mats is commonly examined in either small-scale short-term experiments or large-scale long-term data sets that are averaged over large areas. In this study, we used a approach study effects caused by the recurring appearance early 1990's on New England mud flat. Algal frequently covered inner parts flat, where algae persisted for 6 months between July and December, were incorporated into sediment after growth season. These flat differed from outer parts, never occurred. Between 1979 1996, infaunal numbers increased ten-fold at 37 stations part, but not 19 part Detritus-feeding annelids primarily contributed numerical increase colonizers; grazing gastropods amphipods, suspension- filter-feeding bivalves showed no change. development deposition resulted localized yet persistent change community. results suggest it necessary follow fate We propose colonizers most severe long-lasting decaying finally become sediment. Brood protecting likely benefit detrital material provided moderately dense mats.