Monday, January 10, 2011

Limiting Factors in an Estuary (Long Island Sound)

 There are many limiting factors in an estuarine environment. Here are a few applicable to the Long Island Sound estuary:
Density-Independent:

1. Overfishing: In the Long Island Sound, overfishing of clams is especially prevalent.

http://wwwbio200.nsm.buffalo.edu/labs/tutor/Clam/Clam04N.jpg

 2. Habitat Destruction: There are many examples of habitat destruction in the Long Island Sound. Coastal land cleared for development destroys coastal ecosystems, increases runoff, and reduces filtration into the Sound. Trash and toxic waste also contribute to the destruction of estuarine habitats.

Density-Dependent:

1. Disease: Long Island Sound has had many aquatic diseases affect its non-human residents. One recent example is the current lobster epidemic. This disease attacks the shell of the lobster without harming the rest with what is likely a bacterial infection.

2. Predation and Competition: See earlier post.

41° 6'40.95"N
72°48'29.68"W

No comments:

Post a Comment