Objective This project will contribute to our understanding of the role density-depending processes in the dynamic of an exploited bivalve species ( Cerastpderma edle ) from natural beds in the Wadden Sea and the Oosterschelde estuary.By using an innovative modelling approach the B-N diagram, some specific issues will be addressed to identify the relevant spatial scale(s) at which density dependence occur and may affect population dynamics of C. edule: possible occurrence of density-dependant mortality in cockle populations: the factors responsible for density-dependant growth and or survival in cockles i.e competition for space or trophic resources: and finally possible impacts in terms of Economy i.e. sustainability and profitability of the cockles fisheries and of ecology, i.e. protection of estuarine habitants including food reservation for wading birds. Fields of science agricultural sciencesagriculture, forestry, and fisheriesfisheriessocial sciencessociologydemographymortalitynatural sciencesbiological sciencesecology Programme(s) FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002 Topic(s) Data not available Call for proposal 1 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme Data not available Coordinator NETHERLANDS INSTITUTE FOR FISHERIES RESEARCH EU contribution No data Address Haringkade 1 IJMUIDEN Netherlands See on map Total cost No data