The hyperbenthos of the surf zone seems to be
characterised by high biomass (McLachlan, 1983).
For example, Schistomysis parkeri in the Bay of Biscay,
was found to have an estimated annual production of
52·6 mg m2, with a corresponding production/
biomass ratio (P/B) of 9·7 (San Vicente & Sorbe,
1993a). Since most fish species occurring within the
surf zone of sandy beaches show a high degree of
opportunism in feeding, all feeding types may predate
heavily on zooplankton and larger schooling crustaceans
when they are locally abundant (McLachlan,
1983), as shown for several gobies (Pomatoschistus
spp.), Nilsson’s pipefish (Syngnathus rostellatus) and
cCorresponding author. E-mail: bregje.beyst@rug.ac.be several juvenile flatfish specie