Distribution of intertidal benthic algae in the vicinity of Townsville, tropical Australia

Abstract

The vertical and horizontal distribution of 144 benthic marine algal taxa (25 of the Chlorophyta, 21 of the Phaeophyta, 92 of the Rhodophyta and 6 of the Cyanophyta) in the intertidal region in the vicinity of Townsville was investigated. The distribution patterns are discussed in relation to the zonation of animal species in the region and compared with information available for other tropical shores.