A comparative study on the distribution and relative abundance of the dominant macro-fauna found on the rocky shore of the Namibian coastline between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund

Abstract

A study on the distribution and relative abundance of the dominant macro-fauna found on the rocky shore of the Namibian coastline was conducted between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. This study aims to determine which organisms are present in the different zones on the rocky shore; and further compare the presence of these organisms in three different sampling areas. Three different sites situated along the coastline were identified based on the difference in activities taking place among the three sites. A survey method using transects and calculations of relative percentage cover was used to calculate population density of the organisms present; and the data were analyzed using a GENSTAT statistical package to determine whether there is a significant difference between the occurrence, abundance and diversity of organisms on the three different rocky shores. Results indicated that there is no significant difference in the abundance and diversity of macro-fauna in the intertidal zones of Dolphin Park, Long Beach and the “Shipwreck” beaches. This might be due to the fact that the three areas are very similar in topographic orientation, creating similar environments and habitats at all three sites. Although the duration of the study was short it clearly showed no significant difference in relative abundance and diversity of macro-fauna at the three sites.