Environmental Impact Research Program. Ecological Effects of Rubble Weir Jetty Construction at Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Volume 1. Colonization and Community Development on New Jetties

摘要

Quarrystone jetties constructed at Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, were studied over a 4-year period to evaluate community development patterns of biota colonizing the rocks. Sessile macroinvertebrates and algae were quantitatively assessed using line-transect and photographed-quadrat censusing techniques. Motile epifauna were also quantitatively sampled using a suction device, and fishes were qualitatively assessed using gill nets, hook and line, traps and seine net, and through visual observations while scuba diving. The results documented that both jetties were rapidly colonized by sessile and motile biota. Within 1 year after construction, faunal and floral coverage of the rocks was equivalent to subsequent sampling periods, as were estimates of species diversity and abundance. Community composition, on the other hand, changed both seasonally and yearly. Community structure appeared to change less over time in intertidal areas than in subtidal areas, where marked changes in dominant sessile taxa were observed between sampling periods. No stable or 'climax' jetty community was apparent subtidally after 3 to 4 years, and other studies suggest that such a community is not likely to occur. Fish found around the jetties were abundant and included several recreationally important species.