Quantitative distribution of the meiobenthos in Baidaratskaya Bay (Kara Sea)

The quantitative characteristics and spatial distribution of the meiobenthos in Baidaratskaya Bay (Kara sea) were analyzed based on data collected in 1994–2007. The extremely high density of the meiobenthos (up to 8121 ind/10 cm², average 2318 ind/10 cm²) makes it possible to consider Baidaratskaya Bay among the most productive Arctic regions. The spatial distribution of the meiobenthos was mostly determined by the depth and sediment properties in the subtidal zone of the bay. The density of meiobenthic organisms decreased with depth, and with the increase of the small sediment fraction. The difference in the meiobenthic densities between the two coastal areas of the bay (Yamal and Jugora CAs) is also revealed. Such difference caused by the combined effects of small-scale and mesoscale factors, mainly by the grain size. Opposite changes in the meio- and macrobenthic biomass with depth is shown.