Distribution, density, and habitat use among native and introduced populations of the Au8straliasian burrowing isopod Sphaeroma quoianum

Abstract

Abstract The Australasian burrowing isopod (Sphaeroma quoianum) has been introduced to numerous embayments along the Pacific coast of North America. In some bays, populations of S. quoianum can exceed tens of thousands of individuals m3 and bioturbation by the isopods can exacerbate shoreline erosion. Within their native range, however, studies recognize S. quoianum primarily as a woodborer. We measured the distribution, prevalence, habitat use, density, and associated fauna of S. quoianum in two bays within the native range [Tamar estuary (Tamar