The dynamics between Strongylocentrotus franciscanus red sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus purple sea urchin and Haliotis cracherodis abalone population is complex, but simple in that they both compete for kelp as food. The proposed research hypothesizes that the optimum proportion of kelp to sea urchins in the environment of the black abalone will slow their extinction. The proposed research can offer data and information so that abalone extinction can be slowed.
Research is needed to find the optimal population density of the kelp and sea urchin to ensure abalone survival is achieved. The appropriate balance between kelp and sea urchins
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