Characterization of Mero-and Ichthyoplankton Communities within the Chesapeake Bay Plume off Virginia Beach, Virginia during 1983-1984

摘要

The coastal zone has long been a source of sustenance for the human community. Because of its aesthetic and economic value there has occurred a continual ingress to this dynamic, yet finite area. A vital component of the routine operations around most coastal harbors and embayments is the maintenance dredging of navigational channels. Associated with this particular operation is the need for adequate disposal site. Recently, questions have been raised concerning the potential impact of dredged material disposal on the aquatic resources, in particular the plankton community. Conclusion of report is that the Dam Neck Disposal Site (DNDS) does not appear to represent a major larval transport route for any but the most common and commercially insignificant species (e.g. sand shrimp, Bay anchovies, gastropods, and hermit crabs). The only possible exception would be the blue crab megalopae found in the neuston in the center of the study area. This population represents only a small portion of the recruitment stock in the Bay. Previous studies have documented equal or greater concentrations of megalopae offshore. Blue crab zoea were found in greatest numbers offshore of DNDS. Keywords: Commercial fisheries, Recreational fisheries.