Physiological ecology of three populations of the bivalve Scrobicularia plana

Abstract

Seasonal cycles in rates of oxygen consumption, clearance, ammonia-nitrogen excretion and absorption efficiency were measured for 3 populations of the bivalve Scrobicularia plana (Da Costa) and related to temperature, body weight, reproductive cycle and particulate organic matter in the sediment. Quantitative estimates of the condition of S. plana were made at each site by 'scope for growth' measurements. Distinct population differences were observed, due in part to the different sediments and food levels at each site.