Some effects of salinity on the distribution and abundance of <i>Corophium volutator</i> in the Ythan estuary

Abstract

A study of the effects of salinity on the distribution and abundance of the amphipod Corophium volutator (Pallas) on the estuary of the River Ythan, Aberdeenshire, indicates that 2‰ is a critical minimum salinity controlling its distribution. In areas with salinities between 2 and 5‰ C. volutator was present, but in reduced numbers. Breeding occurred only in salinities greater than 7·5‰. In areas with salinity greater than 5‰, the distribution and abundance of C. volutator were controlled by the nature of the substrate; however, in areas with suitable substrates, but where the salinity was below 5‰, the effects of salinity override the effects of the substrate. The annual life-cycle is discussed. The results of this study are compared with those of a recent experimental study.