Research Document - 2001/109

Marine and Estuarine Riparian Habitats and their role in Coastal Ecosystems, Pacific Region

By Levings, C., Jamieson, G.

Abstract

This paper is an assessment of the fish habitat significance of a particular ecotone of the marine and estuarine shoreline in British Columbia- locations where aquatic habitat at higher tides merges into terrestrial habitat. Scientific data on these supralittoral areas, frequently called the "marine riparian" by managers are scarce in Pacific region. Habitat and ocean managers are dealing with uncertainty when assessing these areas in relation to forestry, urban development, and other industrial activities. There is evidence showing that unvegetated beach substrate in the marine riparian is used as spawning and incubation habitat for sandlance and surf smelt. Marine riparian is also recognized as rearing and migratory habitat for juvenile salmonids. Preliminary studies conducted at two locations in the Strait of Georgia in February and March 2001 showed that a variety of arthropods are potentially available as fish food from intact marine riparian habitats. The functional importance of marine riparian is likely to be related to food production, temperature regulation, wave energy absorption, and provision of structure as well as indirect ecological value. As an interim measure, based on the sparse available literature, we recommend that a site specific approach be taken to buffer zone widths to manage the marine riparian. Gravel, sand, or cobble beaches may be most susceptible to erosion and sediment sloughing from land, depending on backshore conditions. We also advise a careful review of the rationale, efficacy, and performance of the setback distances proposed in Clayoquot Sound and Puget Sound. Several focused research projects are recommended.

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