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Global patterns of macroinvertebrate production in marine benthic habitats
Secondary production integrates numerous biotic and environmental parameters which influence growth and mortality within populations. Mathieu Cusson and Edwin Bourget undertook a meta-analysis of macroinvertebrate production that includes 207 taxa from 170 sites. Production/biomass ratio (P/B) differences were explored among taxonomic groups, feeding guilds, substrate types and latitudinal classes. Crude potential production in various habitats was also assessed. Biotic variables, such as life span and body mass, were more important in describing production and variability in P/B than environmental variables such as depth and temperature.
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