Small-scale spatial heterogeneity and seasonal variation in a population of a cave-dwelling Mediterranean mysid
摘要
Seasonal changes in small-scale spatial distribution patterns of abundance and composition of Hemimysis speluncola Ledoyer (1963) (Crustacea, Mysidacea) were studied in a population of cave-dwelling mysids off the Medes Islands (NW Mediterranean Sea). The distribution pattern was characterized all year round by marked spatial segregation of juveniles. The small-scale spatial heterogeneity observed appears to be regulated by biological factors, particularly social and reproductive behaviour. Nevertheless, physical factors may also play a role. Marked seasonal fluctuations in the density and composition of the population were recorded.