TRAVELOGUES OF TWO COPEPOD SPECIES IN COASTAL WATERS OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Tidal and longshore currents are important factors in the distribution of coastal invertebrates. Because of the varied nature of currents and the differing nature of species, details of current transport and effect on organisms and their distribution patterns are difficult to obtain. Yet currents are important in an understanding of the distribution and survival of critical species, commercially important species, and invasive species. Using existing information on currents, this study examines the distribution of a southern and a northern species of Heterolaophonte (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) in coastal waters of British Columbia. These are small organisms and Coriolis force, major storms, and tidal currents have played important roles in past movements and their final locations. Since both copepod species were obtained from collections of eelgrass (Zostera marina) from 16 sites, the copepod numbers may also provide an indication of site suitability for both copepods and eelgrass.