Ecological Implications of Annual Variation in Tidal Extremes

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Abstract
Analysis of extreme tides in the Bay of Fundy, Canada, for the period 1899—1971, coupled with field observations, indicates the presence of a complex of environmental variables. Extreme tides expose organisms to a variety of stresses depending upon the time of year and weather conditions; but, as both weather and tidal extremes are acylic relative to the life span of short—lived species, there is not opportunity for genetic selection of suitable behavioral responses, such as those associated with seasonal changes in light and temperature. consequently, eulittoral organisms, particularly those in the broad fringes such as salt marshes and mud flats, can be "caught off guard" at any stage of their life history. the destruction of bird nests and stranding of fish are common examples. There can be a 4—year interval between such dramatic occurrences followed then by a 17—year interval. Observations and conclusions based on short—term studies could be significantly different from previous and subsequent reports.

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