Spatio-temporal
distribution and population structure of Enoplus quadridentatus Berlin, 1853
associated with mussel beds were investigated seasonally (October 2013, January
2014, May 2014 and July 2014) along the coasts of Sinop Peninsula, the
northernmost point of Turkey located at the Black Sea. A 20x20 cm quadrat was
used by scuba divers to collect samples at five stations, of which four of them
were located on rocky sub- strata and one on a concrete pier pile. Nematode
densities ranged between 0 – 996 ind.m-2 and found high in October
and May. A total of 1100 individuals and 9 species belonging to 8 families were
recruited. E. quadridentatus Berlin, 1853 was the dominant species in most of
the nematode assemblages inhabiting mussel beds and had a contribution of 74%
to the total fauna. The density of the species varied among the seasons with
peaks in May and October, consistent with the general nematode densities.
Population composition revealed seasonal changes. In general, females were dominant
in the population and ovigerous females were recorded only in January and May.
Juveniles were found during all seasons, but formed dense populations in July
and May. It seems that the reproduction of the species is continuous throughout
the year.
Black Sea Enoplus quadridentatus Freeliving marine nematodes Population dynamics Mussel beds
Subjects | Hydrobiology |
---|---|
Journal Section | Articles |
Authors | |
Publication Date | September 30, 2017 |
Published in Issue | Year 2017 Volume: 3 Issue: 4 |