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Bounty of intertidal zones

Journal Article · · Environment; (United States)
OSTI ID:5380043
A surf-pounded shore might seem an inhospitable place, but it may actually be biologically more productive than a tropical forest. Energy carried in the waves far exceeds that delivered by the sun, and seems to account for the thriving marine communities found along some shores. The most productive (in dry weight) kelp and mussel communities, receive the most wave power. Even though the organisms cannot absorb or otherwise directly use the energy, the waves apparently serve to wash away sea urchins and other predators as well as competing organisms. They also keep fresh nutrient-laden water flowing around the kelp and allow more-efficient use of sunlight by marine plants.
OSTI ID:
5380043
Journal Information:
Environment; (United States), Journal Name: Environment; (United States) Vol. 29:3; ISSN ENVTA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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