ISSN:
1573-5117
Keywords:
invertebrate
;
faecal pellet
;
distribution
;
chalk stream
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract An account is given of the size, form, texture, colour, cohesion and composition of the faeces of 41 species of invertebrates found in chalk streams. The relationships between the character of the faeces and the taxonomic positions and habits of the producers are considered. The importance of faeces production relative to the bulk of stream bed sediments is discussed. Faeces of different origins accumulate in different areas of the stream bed and these differences may be associated in part with their form and structure and in part with the distribution of the species from which they originate. In the summer months tubificid worms alone may be responsible for reworking between 0.3% and 0.5% of the fine particulate material in sediments every day.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00014568
