Distinguish between hard and sedimentary substrates (in the context of benthic, marine environments). What types of invertebrates typically dominate hard substrates? What types of invertebrates typically dominate in sedimentary substrates?

Question 1

What us meant by the term hard substrate?

Answer 1

any solid substrate. E.g. rock wood, hard surface of another organism

Question 2

What is meant by the term sedimentary substrate?

Answer 2

mix of organic and inorganic particles and pore water- particles can be displaced e.g. sand, gravel, mud

Question 3

What types of invertebrates typically dominate hard substrates?

Answer 3

• main macro-organisms are invertebrates
  -mainly sessile, epifauna, suspension feeders and often colonial
  -competition and disturbance are important in shaping the community

Question 4

What types of invertebrates typically dominate sedimentry substrates?

Answer 4

-mainly unitary
-mainly mobile
-mainly infauna (live below the water surface interface)
-deposit and suspension feeders