Ecology of the intertidal pulmonate limpet Siphonaria diemenensis Quoy et Gaimard. II. Reproductive patterns and energetics

The reproductive patterns of the intertidal pulmonate limpet Siphonaria diemenensis Quoy et Gaimard were examined in populations on a rocky shore at two heights (Zones 1 and 2) with differing availabilities of food. The reproductive cycle and reproductive output of S. diemenensis were strongly correlated with seasonal differences in the availability of food, a relationship confirmed by experimental manipulation. Reproductive effort increased with size and age and size-specific reproductive effort was greater at the higher level (Zone 1), where food supply was very seasonal, than at the lower level (Zone 2). This may be because the probability of limpets from Zone 1 surviving the period of food shortage was low.