The Ecology of Idotea Species (Isopoda) and Gammarus Locusta (Amphipoda) on Surface Driftweed in Galway Bay (West of Ireland)

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Abstract
Four species of Idotea and Gammarus locusta were associated with drifting seaweed. In all species and throughout the year juveniles predominated. Peak numbers occurred in summer when most seaweed was collected, but /. emarginata and /. baltica were common also in spring and autumn. All species also occurred freely swimming at the surface. No diel vertical migration was detected.Drifting alga provides only a temporary and unstable habitat for associated species but is important as a medium for habitat expansion and as a refuge from predators for actively dispersing juveniles.Breeding activity in all species peaked during the summer but continued at a low level for most of the year.