The structure of subtidal algal and invertebrate assemblages at the Chatham Islands, New Zealand

The algal and invertebrate assemblages have varying spatial patterns in the subtidal habitats at the Chatham Islands, New Zealand, due to different physical factors, demography, and life histories. The durvillaea chathamensis and D. antarctica are the predominant endemic algal species in the lower intertidal and shallow subtidal zone. The frequent sea urchin, Evechinus chloroticus, occur in small high density groups. The shallow water Lessonia tholiformis and Haliotis iris, are present at a depth of 2.5 to 15 m, and 5 m, respectively.