An Ecological Study on Laminaria Ochroleuca

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Abstract
The distribution of Laminaria ochroleuca along the south-west coast of England and the Isles of Stilly is brought up to date. The pattern of distribution is discussed with reference to certain factors controlling the ‘ performance’ and success of the species on the northernmost edge of its range. The performance of individuals of the species (measured as net stipe production) sampled from populations growing on the coast of south-west England is compared with populations from north-west Spain, where it is growing in the centre of its geographical range.The degree of exposure to direct onshore wave action appears to govern the upper limit of its bathymetric range as well as its distribution along the south-west coast of England.It was found possible to age this species using the method and precautions described by Kain for Laminaria hyperborea.The stipe material sampled from the English populations had a higher ash content per gram dry weight and a higher calorific content per gram of organic material than that from the Spanish populations.Individuals from the English population had a lower weight per unit length of stipe in all age-classes than those from Spain.It is suggested that incident radiation may be a more important factor than temperature in controlling the northward limit of the species.

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