Life in Sediments

  • Patrick J. S. Boaden
  • Raymond Seed
Chapter
Part of the Tertiary Level Biology book series (TLB)

Abstract

Sediments consist of particles which tend to become round due to abrasion, although initially most of them are angular. When the particles are packed together spaces between them occupy 30–40% of the sediment volume. If the particles were spherical the solid to void ratio would be 74:26. Thus there is a system of interstices which may be variously filled with water, air, detritus and organisms. The water in sediments may be derived or maintained by various means. On beaches the surface tension or capillary forces may retain water which has been derived from the groundwater table or from tidal input; there may be superficial or subterranean streams of fresh water as well as rain and evaporation, all of which will modify salinity. Some fresh water may emerge through the sea-floor at considerable distance offshore. However, when present, fresh water tends to flow over the surface of beach sediments which are thus protected from extreme salinity fluctuations. Sediments also provide some insulation from temperature change (Figure 4.1) providing that the organisms can avoid the immediate surface. The specific heat of damp sand is usually 0.1–0.3 ofthat of water. The granulometric composition of sand and mud affects various other parameters, including the total pore volume, as well as pore dimensions. An admixture of fine particles such as silt or sponge spicules alters the pore space radically and this in turn alters the sediment’s drainage or percolation characteristics.

Keywords

Deposit Feeder Coastal Ecology Surf Clam Subterranean Stream Subtidal Sand 
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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Copyright information

© Blackie & Son Ltd 1985

Authors and Affiliations

  • Patrick J. S. Boaden
    • 1
  • Raymond Seed
    • 2
  1. 1.Marine Biology StationQueen’s UniversityBelfastUK
  2. 2.School of Animal BiologyUniversity College of North WalesUK

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