Benthic communities in the vicinity of producing oil wells in Timbalier Bay, Louisiana

Abstract

This study examines species diversity, faunal affinities, and biomass relations of benthic communities in Timbalier Bay, Louisiana. Two distinct biocoenoses were found, and a transition between Bay and offshore faunas occurred in the pass to the offshore area. Diversity generally increased with salinity, and standing crop seasonal trends were observed. No detrimental effects of producing oil wells on benthic fauna were observed.