The Marine Benthic Ecology and Biogeography

Abstract

This sections begins with a description of the bathymetry and oceanography of the various islands (Kermadec Isles in the north, to Campbell Island in the S.) considered to be included in the New Zealand region. The distribution patterns and relationships of selected (because of adequate data and recent publication of taxonomic reviews) marine groups are discussed. Included are marine algae, scleratinia corals, gammarid amphipods, Brachyura, and Echinodermata. The 5 biogeographical provinces currently recognized are described in terms of littoral and shallow shelf faunal composition and climate. The past history of the New Zealand fauna is given, with brief comments on the various biogeographical elements within it.