author(s)
Sheetal K Bharda, AY Desai, Tandel Rutvikkumar P, RV Borichangar, PV Taral and Modi KP

abstract
The present study attempts to understand the correlation of ecological attribute (population density, abundance and frequency) of four limpet species viz., Cellana karachiensis (Winckworth, 1930), Siphonaria sp., Scutus unguis (Linnaeus, 1758) and Diodora sp. with physico-chemical characteristic at three different coastal habitats of Saurashtra i.e., Veraval, Okha and Sikka. The samples collected through random quadrant method and mean values were taken to evaluate the density, abundance and frequency of limpet species. The various physico-chemical parameters viz., temperature, salinity, pH and dissolved oxygen were analyzed. The highest density and abundance of limpet species were recorded during post-monsoon and winter months at all sampling sites. This may be because of migration of animals to avoid an influx of freshwater during monsoon and high temperature during summer months. The value of physico-chemical parameters shows a slight positive correlation with the density and abundance, while a strong positive correlation with frequency of limpet species. The present study confirmed that the environmental parameters cause subsidiary effects on population structure and distribution of limpets on the intertidal regime.