Studies on the ecology of the zooplankton of four estuaries in Victoria

Abstract

Results are presented of quantitative studies on plankton in the Yarra, Maribyrnong, Werribee and Patterson River estuaries during the period February-July 1971. The horizontal and temporal distribution and abundance of 13 species of calanoid and cyclopoid copepods and of 28 other taxonomic groups are recorded.

Differences in the species composition and mean total standing crop are discussed in relation to the apparent hydrological nature of the estuaries and the modifying influence of man. Results obtained are compared with those of similar studies elsewhere. The mean standing crop over the four estuaries is shown to be lower than in several previous estuarine studies, but distinctly higher than in Port Phillip Bay, into which all four estuaries discharge.

he occurrence of Australomedusa baylii from a true open estuarine system (the Werribee) is reported for the first time, and some aspects of its feeding are noted.