THE DISTRIBUTION AND ECOLOGY OF NEMATODES IN A GEORGIA SALT MARSH1

Abstract

The vertical and horizontal distributions of nematodes were sampled in a Georgia salt marsh at six sites between the landward edge and low tide level. Numerical densities as high as 16 × 10⁶/m² were found in the more productive areas, corresponding to 7.6 g/m². The respiration in air of 15 species was measured and correlated with feeding habit as indicated by buccal structure. The nematodes account for about 3% of the respiratory exchange between the marsh mud and the air.