Biogenic sediment compounds in relation to marine meiofaunal abundances


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tsoltwedel [ at ] awi-bremerhaven.de

Abstract

Correlations between a series of biogenic sediment compounds, commonly used in ecological studies, and a major component of the benthic infauna, the meiofauna, were studied on the continental margin off Southwest Africa (Angola) and in a central oceanic region of the Atlantic Ocean (Mid Oceanic Ridge). Biogenic sediment compounds chosen for this investigation (electron-transport-system activity, total adenylates and energy charge, particulate proteins, chloroplastic pigments) are obviously not suitable for a quick and rough estimation of meiofaunal abundances. Nevertheless, biogenic sediment compounds might reflect quite well the activity and biomass of the total benthic infauna, including all size classes (from bacteria to macrofaunal organisms) and/or the total particulate organic matter within the sediments. Furthermore, analyzing biogenic sediment compounds leads to a better understanding of environmental conditions and biological activities of benthic organisms. consequently, despite their limitations, biochemical sediment parameters may be very useful in benthic ecological studies to obtain rapid information on the eco-status of the benthic system.



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Eprint ID
2959
Cite as
Soltwedel, T. and Thiel, H. (1995): Biogenic sediment compounds in relation to marine meiofaunal abundances , International review of hydrobiology:, 80 (2), pp. 97-311 .


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