Spatial and Seasonal Distributions of Marine Algal Communities at Amchitka Island, Alaska

Abstract

Rock benches in the littoral have a major influence on algal distribution. The configuration of littoral algal zones at Amchitka generally corresponds with patterns established by comparable studies in other parts of the world. Seasonal quantitative data indicate few changes in major littoral populations. The Aleutian Islands constitute an important mixing region for the Japanese temperate, American temperate, Atlantic-Arctic, and rich endemic flora. A pattern for floral transition is hypothesized.