Variation in the size and shape of limpets (Siphonaria diemenensis) on a rocky shore in Western Port Bay, Victoria

This study examined differences in the size and shape of Siphonaria diemenensis in the high and low intertidal zones on a rocky shore in Western Port Bay, Victoria. The tenacities of individual limpets and wave action in the 2 zones were also measured. All fieldwork was conducted at Griffith Point, San Remo between April and October 1987.

It was found that limpets in the high shore were significantly taller and narrower than limpets in the low shore. For a given length, the tenacity at which the limpets adhered to the substrate was greater in the low zone compared to the high zone. Wave velocities were generally greater in the low zone which could explain the differences in size and shape and tenacity between the zones. However, a laboratory study demonstrated that the tenacities of limpets were much greater than the drag forces exerted on them by wave action. This study suggests that the differences between the high and low zone limpet populations can not be explained by wave action. Alternative explanations could be related to food availability, life-history patterns and desiccation.

The data collected from each component of this study are described in the related records.