The ecology and distribution of rockboring pelecypods off Del Monte Beach, Monterey, California

Abstract

Divers using SCUBA gear gathered and identified rockboring pelecypods found in the subtidal outcrops of Monterey silicious shale off Del Monte Beach, Monterey, California. Underwater photographs were taken of all the recognizable species present. A species distribution and mapping survey was made. along two transects, one of which would be subjected to radical ecological change after isolation from the open sea by a proposed breakwater project. Most species found are common to both transects. Their distribution is variable and depends to a great extent on the character of the substrate, which varies from soft, carbonate-rich mudstone to chert. However, within this framework of distribution dependent on substrate, there are inconsistencies which remain unresolved.