On the dynamics of the mass mortality of Diadema antillarum in Barbados |
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Authors: | Wayne Hunte Isabelle Côté Tom Tomascik |
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Institution: | (1) Bellairs Research Institute of McGill University, St. James, Barbados;(2) Department of Biology, McGill University, 1205 Docteur Penfield, H3A 1B1 Montreal, Canada;(3) Institute of Oceanography, McGill University, 3620 University Street, H3H 2B2 Montreal, Canada;(4) Present address: Department of Zoology, University of Alberta, T6G 2E9 Edmonton, Alberta, Canada |
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Abstract: | Widespread mortality of the black sea urchin Diadema antillarum occurred in the Caribbean in 1983; beginning in Panama in January, and having its major impact at Barbados in September. Mortality on ten reefs surveyed in Barbados was 93.2%, with the highest being 99.9% and the lowest 86.9%. Mortality on each reef was independent of the pre-mortality density on the reef. Urchins with test diameters between 20 and 40 mm were more severely affected than smaller or larger urchins. Populations on reefs exposed to incoming oceanic water suffered heavier mortality than those on protected reefs. Mean size of urchins was smallest on high density reefs. This may indicate a negative effect of density on urchin growth. At post-mortality densities, urchins may grow faster and reach sexual maturity sooner. |
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