Table 1 Taxonomic classification, reproduction strategy and ecological function of focal species
Species | Classification | Lifespan (years) | Larval type | Asexual reproduction | Life style | Feeding guild | Habitat type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H. diversicolor | Annelida Polychaeta Phyllodocida Nereididae | 1–3 | Benthic | No | Benthic Infauna Burrow dwelling | Omnivore Deposit feeder Predator | Mixed soft sediment |
P. elegans | Annelida Polychaeta Spionida Spionidae | 1–2 | Benthic/ planktonic | Yes | Benthic Infauna Tube dwelling | Suspension feeder Filter feeder Deposit feeder | Sandy-muddy sediment Sheltered |
M. balthica | Mollusca Bivalvia Cardiida Tellinidae | 5–10 | Planktonic | No | Benthic Infauna Burrow dwelling | Suspension feeder Deposit feeder | Soft sediments |
M. arenaria | Mollusca Bivalvia Myida Myidae | 10–12 | Planktonic | No | Benthic Infauna Burrow dwelling | Suspension feeder | Soft sediments |
M. edulis | Mollusca Bivalvia Mytilida Mytilidae | 18–24 | Planktonic | No | Benthic Epifauna Sessile | Suspension feeder | Hard substrate |
C. volutator | Arthopoda Malacostraca Amphipoda Corophiidae | 1 | Benthic | No | Benthic Infauna Semi-permanent burrow dwelling Swim/crawl | Suspension feeder Deposit feeder | Soft to muddy sediment |