The role of Laternula elliptica in the energy budget of Potter Cove (King George Island, Antarctica)
Authored by F Momo, J Kowalke, I Schloss, G Mercuri, G Ferreyra
Date Published: 2002
DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3800(02)00081-9
Sponsors:
Argentinian Antarctic Research Institute (IAA)
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Abstract
In order to understand the role of the bivalve Laternula elliptica in
the energy budget of Potter Cove ecosystem (Antarctica), two coupled
mathematical models are presented. One is an Individual Based Model
(IBM) that incorporates the known physiological and ecological
characteristics of L. elliptica; the other is a synthetic Community
Model (CM) that incorporates the main ecological compartments involved
in the ecosystem dynamics. The IBM gives data for the L. elliptica
population to input in the CM. The analysis of this last model, shows
that L. elliptica is capable of maintaining a stable biomass despite the
fluctuation of its energy sources, This bivalve may also compensates the
environmental fluctuations increasing the energy flow to decomposers and
deposit-feeders when the food is scarce (winter). The benthic system of
Potter Cove may resists environmental fluctuations maintaining a stable
structure, by the action of L. elliptica that appears as the key species
of this ecosystem. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Tags
Dynamics
Mcmurdo sound
Broderip