Effects of water quality on larval settlement in Los Angeles Harbor as determined by multivariate statistical techniques

Settling racks were placed at different locations within Los Angeles Harbor representing a variety of water quality conditions. Larval settlement was monitored quantitatively and qualitatively at monthly intervals for a two year period. Abiotic parameters were measured at monthly intervals and included temperature, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, primary productivity, nitrates, nitrite, NH₃ H₂S, tidal flux and sediment chemistry. Multivariate statistical techniques were applied in an attempt to define the major physical parameters affecting larval distribution and settlement success. Hierarchical classificatory methods were used to define site and species groups. Normal and inverse hierarchies were used to construct two-way tables to determine environmentally dependent species assemblages. Ordination techniques were applied to determine abiotic trends and define those parameters contributing significantly to settlement success.