Quantitative estimates of demersal zooplankton abundance in Onslow Bay, North Carolina, USA

Abstract

Demersal zooplankton were sampled by reentry trapping at 4 locations in Onslow Bay, North Carolina, USA, from 1983 to 1986. Vertical plankton tows were also taken to compare the fauna in the water column with the demersal zooplankton. Demersal zooplankton are taxonornically distinct from the holozooplankton. Demersal zooplankton were captured in greater numbers at night and over sand substrates. Demersal zooplankton were approximately as abundant as holozooplankton (1 to 6 X 104 ind. m-2). Estimates of demersal zooplankton abundance in Onslow Bay are generally higher than those reported from other habitats. Demersal zooplankton are concentrated at the sediment-water interface, and are likely to be important prey for zooplanktivores in the continental shelf ecosystem off North Carolina.