Productivity of kelp (Laminaria spp.) near the southern limit in the Northwestern Atlantic Ocean

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Abstract
Annual primary production of kelp L. saccharina was calculated from standing crop, density, tissue C content and growth rate measurements at 3 sites in Rhode Island, USA-2 within Narragansett Bay and 1 in Rhode Island Sound. Similar seasonal growth patterns were indicated at all sites within Rhode Island. This pattern paralleled those in more northerly locations with rapid growth in late winter/early spring and minimal growth in summer. There was no reduction in production at the Rhode Island sites, although they are near the southern limit of this species. L. digitata was found at the most exposed sites where it comprised up to 23% of the total kelp density. The relative contribution of kelp to the total primary productivity varies according to season. The epiphytic community was most abundant in Aug. and Sept. This is the 1st report of 7 spp. [Craterolophus convolvulus, Mitrella lunata, Littorina littorea, Didemnum candidum, Bugula turrita, Balanus sp., Amoplopactylum lenus] of animals epiphytic on Laminaria spp. Lacuna vincta (Mollusca) was an important grazer on the Laminaria blades especially in winter.

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