Small-scale patterns in the distribution of the amphipod Corophium volutator on the Ythan estuary, Aberdeenshire, Scotland

The small-scale patterns of spatial distribution of Corophium volutator (Pallas) were investigated in winter and summer by intensive, high spatial resolution surveys. Spatial analysis techniques (dispersion indices and spatial autocorrelation) were used to describe the patterns. In winter there was a strong pattern of high-density patches, 0-6 cm in size, distributed at random over the mud flat. A similar pattern was indicated during the summer, although it was less clear. Interactions between individuals seems the most likely mechanism for the formation and maintenance of this small-scale pattern in Corophium.