The dynamics of phytobenthos and its main drivers on abrasion platforms with vermetids (Alicante, Southeastern Iberian Peninsula)

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Published: May 23, 2018
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/mms.14143
Keywords:
Seasonality community structure environmental factors Biodiversity benthos
MARC TERRADAS FERNÁNDEZ
Universidad de Alicante
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1916-5337
CARLOS BOTANA GÓMEZ
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1228-5624
MIGUEL VALVERDE URREA
JOSÉ JACOBO ZUBCOFF
Universidad de Alicante
ALFONSO RAMOS ESPLA
Universidad de Alicante
Abstract

Abrasion platforms with vermetids shape unique seascapes and biotic assemblages that characterize several of the warm Mediterranean coasts. The composition, structural and seasonal dynamics of the platforms’ phytobenthos were examined at two Southeast Iberian locations through non-destructive sampling. The patterns observed were linked with environmental variables and grazers’ coverage, and we assessed their possible influence. Structural descriptors α-diversity and β-diversity were applied, pointing that depth and season-related variables were the major influencing drivers. Higher α-diversity and β-diversity values during winter and spring coincided with the production optimum of the community. A greater average water depth influences the abundance of both midlittoral and infralittoral taxa. The strong resemblance between the phytobenthos of these vermetid platforms and that on similar platforms in the Eastern and Central Mediterranean Sea suggests that these are affected by the same structuring mechanisms.

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Author Biographies
MARC TERRADAS FERNÁNDEZ, Universidad de Alicante

Department of Marine Science and Applied Biology

A part time Instructor.

JOSÉ JACOBO ZUBCOFF, Universidad de Alicante

Department of Marine Science and Applied Biology

Associate Professor

ALFONSO RAMOS ESPLA, Universidad de Alicante

Department of Marine Science and Applied Biology

Full Professor

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