Community Development and Persistence in a Low Rocky Intertidal Zone

Abstract

The factors controlling the development and persistence of patterns of distribution, abundance and diversity of space users in the low rocky interidal zone of New England [northeastern USA]. The spatial structure of this community changes along a wave exposure gradient. Mussels (Mytilus edulis) dominate at headlands exposed to wave shock, the alga Chondrus crispus (Irish moss) dominates at sites protected from wave shock and both were abundant at areas intermediate in exposure to waves. Using a combination of experiments (exclosures, enclosures, removals) and observations, the effects of several factors on this system, including predation, herbivory, plant-plant competition, plant-animal competition and physical disturbance from high-energy waves were evaluated. Asterias forbesi, A. vulgaris, Thais lapillus, Balanus balanoides and Littorina littorea were discussed.