Synthesis: Comparative Ecology of Sedimentary Shores

Abstract

In the biota of sedimentary shores a few dominant species often manage to transform the coastal ecotone. Examples are the reefs or beds of suspension feeders, seagrass beds and algal mats. Dominant bioturbating worms, crabs and sometimes vertebrates may modify topography, hydrodynamics, sediment properties, and alter the habitat structure and nutrient cycling. The rest of the species are relegated to niches positioned relative to these dominants. Trophic pathways are short, usually in three steps from micro algae to invertebrates to fish or birds.