Invertebrate larval dynamics in seasonally closed estuaries

Most benthic invertebrates, such as bivalves and polychaete worms, produce a planktonic larval stage. The extent of these populations is largely determined by movement of this larvae. This study investigated the extent of larval dispersal within and between four seasonally closed estuaries in south west Victoria. Defining the extent of a population and therefore the likelihood of that population recovering following a disturbance is crucial for effective estuarine management. The results of the study emphasised the unique physicochemical characteristics and biological assemblages within each estuary and the need for estuarine management to reflect these differences.