Influence of Coastal Sediment Grain Characteristics on the Distribution of Burrowing Marine Invertebrates

The physical properties of coastal sediments have been found to be very influential in determining the distribution, density, and function of burrowing marine invertebrates. Sediment grain size, sorting, porosity, permeability, and substrate stability affect the capability of animals to dig burrows, access food, maintain adequate physiological status, and minimize environmental stress. Differences in the values of the aforementioned characteristics can produce either favorable or unfavorable conditions for bivalves, polychaetes, and burrowing crabs in intertidal and coastal environments. This work presents a study into the effect that the physical characteristics of coastal sediment grains have on the distribution of burrowing marine invertebrates. It employs a limited secondary review of relevant scientific literature to accomplish this objective. Sediment grain size influences burrowing efficiency and the distribution of organisms; however, sediment stability, hydrodynamics, and burial or contamination may alter these relations. Sediment irrigation, biogeochemical cycling, and the functioning of the ecosystem are the ecological aspects related to burrowing activities considered in the study. Sediment characteristics should be considered when assessing coastal habitats and when implementing coastal habitat restoration efforts.