The soft shore environment of Sullom Voe and the north mainland of Shetland

Abstract

SynopsisThe general character of soft shores in this region is considered briefly. Studies of several aspects of the biology at selected sites were instigated as part of a broader monitoring programme and the results of the baseline study are described in this paper. The structure and growth of populations of Cerastoderma edule (L.) and Macoma balthica (L.) (Mollusca: Lamellibranchiata) are described. Considerable differences in C. edule growth rates were found between sites, and recruitment and survival was sporadic at many sites. The value of C. edule populations in providing some degree of ‘retrospective monitoring’ is considered. C. edule populations were found to contain significant infections of the entocommensal nemertean Malacobdella grossa: this is a new host record for M. grossa. The distribution and abundance of the macrofauna on two sandy shores are discussed in relation to environmental conditions.