ROCKY SHORE 1968 - 1982 



Since the inception of the rocky shore program in 1968, procedures 

 have been modified to yield more quantitative data. A major change in 

 methodology occurred in 1979, involving non-destructive sampling, recolon- 

 ization studies, Fucus and Ascophyllum growth measurements, and more 

 frequent collections. Subsequent changes have been minor. 



The present rocky shore sampling program was designed to allow us 

 to characterize local intertidal communities, in terms of species present 

 and their abundances. Additionally, we assess spatial and temporal 

 variability associated with these communities, and determine if differences 

 exist that can be attributed to the operation of Millstone Nuclear Power 

 Station. These procedures will also allow us to assess the added impact 

 of Unit 3 construction and operation. 



LOBSTERS 1975 - 1982 



Population characteristics of the American lobster have been studied 

 extensively in the vicinity of Millstone Point, Connecticut. Since 

 1975, 22,150 lobsters have been tagged, and pertinent biological data 



recorded. Catch per unit effort (CPUE) was similar among years, but was 



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significantly higher for wire than wooden pots. Legal-size individuals 

 ranged from 4.5 - 18. 1$ of the total catch. The percentage of culled 

 lobsters ranged from/9.0 - 17.4%, and was greater for wood than wire 

 pots. The sampled population was comprised of 51% males and 49% females. 



Berried females accounted for 3.1 - 6.7% of the total catch, and over 



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 half of these were at sublegal size. Growth per molt averaged 13.0% and 



was not significantly different between sexes. A major period of molting 



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 occurred in the Late spring and early summer. 



