Soluble protein and carbohydrate were determined colorimetrically. Lipid was measured gravimetrically. Insoluble protein was calculated by subtraction. Protein is the major organic component in all body parts. Lipids and carbohydrates show similar trends at lower levels.
Total protein contributes the most to the energetic content of both species.
Lipids contribute about the same energetic content to stalks and cirri of both species, but higher amounts to the crown of N. decorus . Stalk and cirri are support structures that apparently require relatively small amounts of energy. Both species occur in locally high densities and may provide a substantial amount of energy to the biotic community. It remains unknown, however, what biota utilize this energy.