Stable isotope analyses of benthic organisms in the southern coast of Korea

초록

Stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen were analysed to elucidate the importance of intertidally-produced organic matter to the benthic food web of the coastal bay systems of Korea. Three bay systems and one offshore region were examined: Kwangyang Bay, Yoja Bay, Deukyang Bay, an offshore region around Geomundo Island. Data were collectd from sampling in three distinct regions: 2 intertidal flat stations at each bay, 2 subtidal stations in the inner bay and 5 offshore staions. The isotopic values of benthic suspension feeders and pelagic consumers in the inner bay systems reflected a greater dependence on phytoplankton than those of benthic consumers, which were closer to mainly microphytobenthos (and/or benthic macroalgae, seagrass etc..). The contribution of terrestrial and marsh plants to the coastal food webs studied was not evident.