WAMSI Node 1.1.3 - Rates of Ecological Processes (Mussel Growth)

Within this experiment the blue mussel ( Mytilus edulis ) is being used as a proxy indicator to understand rates of secondary production across the continental shelf off Marmion WA. The experiment is being run at 5m depth intervals between 0 and 40 meters. Length and width of valves and wet/dry weights of tissue matter are being measured to compare condition and growth rates of individuals from different depths. Stable isotope values are obtained to compare relative C13 and N15 values, to understand if there is a difference in diet across the shelf. Water sampling is also being carried out and regular intervals whilst the experiment is deployed to investigate differences in Particulate organic matter, Chl-a, HPLC and isotope values of organic matter in the water column, to aid in explaining variation in growth and diet patterns.