Annual and long-term fluctuations in the abundance of fish species inhabiting an intertidal mussel bed in Morecambe Bay, Lancashire

Abstract

Seasonal changes in the abundance of fish species inhabiting an intertidal mussel bed in Morecambe Bay, Lancashire, were studied from 1956 to 1972 (excluding 1962). Species distribution was to some extent governed by the availability of suitable habitats. Competition for living space created by high numbers of a particular species resulted in an extension of its normal vertical distribution pattern. Correlations between seasonal migrations and sea temperatures or suggested breeding periods are postulated. The effects of the severe winter of 1962-63 are compared with published information from other locations around the British Isles.