Seaweed-associated animal communities in the Firth of Clyde, with special reference to the population biology of the amphipod Hyale nilssoni (Rathke)

Abstract

SynopisPresent knowledge of animal communities associated with the algae of the Firth of Clyde is briefly reviewed. New work is presented on Hyale nilssoni (Rathke), the commonest amphipod inhabiting high littoral seaweeds, which describes the life-history characteristics over three years of a population associated with Pelvetia. Seasonal changes in growth rate, sex ratio and breeding status are described. Fecundity is investigated and data on brood and egg sizes compared with populations from other latitudes. The dynamic equilibrium between the grazer (Hyale) and the grazed (Pelvetia) is described.