Shore ecology: Field experiments on species interactions in intertidal sediments
In 2002 a long-term experiment commenced excluding lugworms from plots of 400 m² on intertidal flats to test for effects on sediment and benthic organisms. First results showed that bioturbating lugworms maintain permeable sand, prevent succession towards mud flats and have cascading effects on the associated species community.
Lugworm flat dotted with fecal mounds and smooth sediment surface on experimental exclusion plot in our intertidal research area near Sylt.