Spatial variability in community composition on a granite breakwater versus natural rocky shores: Lack of microhabitats suppresses intertidal biodiversity

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

96 Scopus citations

Abstract

Strong differences have been observed between the assemblages on artificial reefs and on natural hard-bottom habitats worldwide, but little is known about the mechanisms that cause contrasting biodiversity patterns. We examined the influence of spatial attributes in relation to both biogenic and topographic microhabitats, in the distribution and composition of intertidal species on both artificial and natural reefs. We found higher small-scale spatial heterogeneity on the natural reef compared with the study breakwater. Species richness and diversity were associated with a higher availability of crevices, rock pools and mussels in natural habitats. Spatial distribution of certain grazers corresponded well with the spatial structure of microhabitats. In contrast, the lack of microhabitats on the breakwater resulted in the absence of several grazers reflected in lower species richness. Biogenic and topographic microhabitats can have interactive effects providing niche opportunities for multiple species, explaining differences in species diversity between artificial versus natural reefs.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)257-268
Number of pages12
JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin
Volume87
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 15 Oct 2014

Keywords

  • Artificial reefs
  • Biodiversity
  • Breakwater
  • Grazers
  • Microhabitats
  • Spatial heterogeneity

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Spatial variability in community composition on a granite breakwater versus natural rocky shores: Lack of microhabitats suppresses intertidal biodiversity'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this