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A model of nematode dynamics in the Westerschelde Estuary
Li, J.; Vincx, M.; Herman, P.M.J. (1996). A model of nematode dynamics in the Westerschelde Estuary. Ecol. Model. 90(3): 271-284. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/0304-3800(95)00154-9
Peer reviewed article  

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Keywords
    Algae > Diatoms
    Aquatic communities > Benthos > Meiobenthos
    Ecology
    Food
    Interspecific relationships > Predation
    Organisms > Aquatic organisms > Animals > Aquatic animals > Marine animals > Aquatic invertebrates > Nematoda > Marine nematodes
    Population dynamics
    Properties > Physical properties > Thermodynamic properties > Temperature
    Radiations > Electromagnetic radiation > Light
    Respiration
    Nematoda [WoRMS]
    Marine/Coastal
Author keywords
    estuary ecosystems; nematodes; population dynamics

Authors  Top 
  • Li, J.
  • Vincx, M., more
  • Herman, P.M.J., more

Abstract
    We developed a time dynamic model to investigate the temporal dynamics of nematode community in the brackish zone of the Westerschelde Estuary. The biomass of four nematode feeding groups observed from March 1991 to February 1992 is used to calibrate the model. Using environmental data as the input, the model predicts the temporal modification and interrelation of four nematode feeding groups. Nematodes achieve a dominant position in the community because of their lower loss rate (in respiration, excretion and natural death). Predators which are deposit-feeding macrobenthos control the variations of dominant nematodes, such as omnivores and non-selective deposit feeders. Food availability causes modification only for rare nematodes such as epigrowth feeders and selective deposit feeders. Temperature is a factor affecting both predation death and a loss including respiration, excretion and natural death. Overall, the modification of nematode community by food availability is much lower than by predator. The macrobenthos in the Westerschelde Estuary decrease from upstream to the estuarine mouth. The stability and standing stock of nematode population follow the opposite gradient of their predators. They increase from upstream to the estuarine mouth.

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