Variations in benthos in the north-western North Sea in relation to the inflow of Atlantic Water, 1980-1984

During the years 1980-1984, samples were collected from five stations across the Fair Isle inflow into the northern North Sea to study the possible effects of the hydrodynamic environment on benthos. No patterns or trends were observed which might correlate with changes in inflow. However, inflow during these years appears to have been fairly stable. It is postulated that not only would the series have to be extended to meet a good chance of incorporating a major anomaly, but also an axial station grid would be required to detect possible changes in the benthos related to the downstream displacement of production during years of higher inflow. (C) 1996 International Council for the Exploration of the Sea