Distribution, population structure, population biomass and morphological characteristics of the tunicate Pyura stolonifera in the Bay of Antofagasta,Chile

The present study analyzes the distribution, population structure, populati on biomass and morphological characteristics of the intertidal tunicate Pyu ra stolonifera (Heller, 1878) in the Bay of Antofagasta, Chile, where the s pecies shows a reduced geographical range extending around 60-70 km. Three sites along its distribution were studied. At the central site the tunicate presents the widest intertidal belts, reaching nearly 11 m (the mid-intert idal-Pyura-zone shows the higher percent cover). Population dry biomass her e averaged up to 20.45 kg.m(-2), representing one of the highest intertidal specific biomasses reported in the literature. Lower values occur towards the borders of its distribution. Population densities were over 1800 indiv. .m(-2) at mid-intertidal-Pyura-belts. Crowding and competition potentially affect morphological characteristics and the energy/tissue allocation along the intertidal and geographical gradient of P. stolonifera.