Details - Biology and ecology of encrusting bryozoans in Monterey Harbor

Biology and ecology of encrusting bryozoans in Monterey Harbor

Title

Biology and ecology of encrusting bryozoans in Monterey Harbor

By

Haderlie, Eugene Clinton

Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

Type

Book

Material

Published material

Publication info

Monterey, California, Naval Postgraduate School, 1970

Notes

Title from cover.

Sponsoring military activity: Office of Naval Research, Ocean Science and Technology Division, Arlington, Virginia 22217.

"Work performed under ONR contract number PO-0-0069; task number NR104-102."--Cover.

"20 October 1970"--Cover.

"NPS-58HC70101A"--Cover.

DTIC Identifiers: Bryozoa, fouling organisms.

Author(s) key words: Encrusting bryozoans, fouling organism, ecology, bryozoan settlements or colonies, flatworm predator.

The encrusting bryozoans Celleporaria brunnea, Cryptosula pallasiana and Tubulipora tuba are the dominant bryozoans and often the dominant fouling organisms in Monterey harbor. By using panels as collecting surfaces, the general biology and ecology of these three species have been investigated. All three settle and grow at depths from the surface down to 25 feet but the optimum depth for settlement and growth is just below the low tide mark. Release of larvae and settlement occurs erratically throughout the year with no species showing a 'season' for settlement. Growth rates have been measured throughout the year for each species. The spreading colonies of Celleporaria brunnea and Cryptosula pallasiana have a definite inhibiting influence on the settlement of barnacle and serpulid larvae, and often cover and smother previously settled barnacles, serpulids, and borers such as Limnoria. Celleporaria colonies were preyed upon by Thysanozoon californicum. a flatworm that closely mimics the color and texture of the bryozoan.