Variation in abundance and spatial distribution of ecomorphs of the sea urchins,Echinometra sp. nov A and E. sp. nov C on a Fijian reef |
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Authors: | Appana S.D. Vuki V.C. Cumming R.L. |
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Affiliation: | 1. Biology Department, The University of the South Pacific, P.O. Box 1168, Suva, Fiji 2. The University of Guam, USA 3. The University of the South Pacific, Suva, Fiji
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Abstract: | This paper presents novel spatial distribution and abundance patterns of ecomorphs of Echinometra sp. nov A andE. sp. nov C (hereafter referred to as E. sp. A and E. sp. C, and collectively as Echinometra spp.). Echinometraspp. were surveyed on the Nukubuco Reef, to determine the within-reef variations in size-frequency and density atseveral spatial scales [between positions (east versus west), zones (crest versus flat), sites and quadrats]. The scalesof variation were greatest for both species between positions and zones. Echinometra sp. A was more readily foundon the calmer flats while E. sp. C preferred the high-energy crests. The distribution of ecomorphs of Echinometraspp. varied between habitats (position x zone). Echinometra sp. A ecomorphs were more abundant on all locationsand showed different size-class distributions compared with E. sp. C. Greater urchin numbers were observed onboth zones of the eastern position than the western position. Echinometra sp. A showed marginal aggregationpattern while E. sp. C showed a stronger tendency to cluster. |
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