Observations on growth of Flustra foliacea (Bryozoa) from Helgoland waters

Abstract

1. The growth rates of Flustra foliacea has been estimated for 8 years by evaluation of previous growth increments. 2. The growth of the colonies was found to be exponential. 3. Intra-annual variation in growth was noticed. This was very conspicuous between the 5-year and 6-year class. 4. The equation W =-1.692 l1.905 can be employed to assess the growth rate of this species in Helgoland waters. 5. The intensity of settlement of epizoites was less when compared with other localities in the North Sea. © 1975 Biologischen Anstalt Helgoland.