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Fecal pellets of common invertebrates of lower York River and lower Chesapeake Bay, Virginia

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Chesapeake Science

Abstract

Fecal pellets voided by 70 invertebrate species are described, 66 of these for the first time. Pellet size is related to size of animals, and linear regressions are given for two species. Pellet characteristics described are cross-sectional shape, sculpture, differentiation, composition, and shape. The morphology is specific for many animals. However, certain species void feces which are 1) diffuse, 2) morphologically inconsistent, or 3) lack differentiating characteristics.

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Author notes

  1. John Kraeuter

    Present address: Department of Biology, University of Delaware, 19711, Newark

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Virginia Institute of Marine Science, 23062, Gloucester Point, Virginia

    John Kraeuter

  2. Department of Biology, University of Delaware, 19711, Newark

    Dexter S. Haven

Authors
  1. John Kraeuter
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  2. Dexter S. Haven
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Contribution No. 354 from Virginia Institute of Marine Science.

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Kraeuter, J., Haven, D.S. Fecal pellets of common invertebrates of lower York River and lower Chesapeake Bay, Virginia. Chesapeake Science 11, 159–173 (1970). https://doi.org/10.2307/1351239

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