The microdistribution of animals associated with the bulbous holdfasts ofSaccorhiza polyschides(Phaeophyta)

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Abstract
The detailed microdistribution of 39 out of a total of 77 spp. presently recorded in Saccorhiza bulbs is described. The most diverse fauna occurs between the base of the bulb and the rock surface to which it is attached. The amphipods Ampithoe rubricata and A. (Pleonexes) gamaroides dominate this region together with brittle stars and polychaetes. Inside the bulb, large polychaetes, squat lobsters and fishes may be found and may account in part for the low density of colonial organisms on the bulb''s inside walls. Fewer organisms are associated with the outer surface, these are mostly suspension feeders or mobile herbivores. Some detritus feeders however find suitable sites to occupy in external crevices and folds between convergent bulbs. The contrast is drawn between the Saccorhiza bulb fauna and that of Laminaria holdfasts and the differences attributed to habitat structure and habitat persistence. The possible role of the Saccorhiza bulbs in the dynamic processes of the kelp forest fauna is discussed.