Coastal Restoration Trust of New Zealand

Coastal Dune Ecosystem Reference Database

Cockles in Pauatahanui Inlet: results of the 1998 sampling programme. Technical Report

Author
Grange, K.R. and Crocker, T.
Year
1999
Journal / Source
Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Nelson.
Keywords
Shellfish, cockles, estuarine, population, Pauatahanui Inlet
Summary
Fourth cockle survey showing similar pattern of distribution as found previously with greater densities along the southern shores and increasing densities down the shore. A significant difference in the numbers off juvenile cockles at almost all sites with increases from 1992 and 1995 surveys. The increase in juveniles boosted the estimated total population to around 257 million (up from 180 million in 1995). Note slightly different sampling method used. Warm winter may have influenced number of young. Monitoring young cockle recruitment is suggested to ascertain whether population is recovering from decline of past 20 years.
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