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This study presents the first comprehensive data on a vermetid formation along the Apulian coast of the Adriatic Sea, representing one of the northernmost records in the Mediterranean. Surveys along the Brindisi coastline employed visual inspection to map the bioconstruction's distribution and extension. Detailed data on the bioconstruction inner and the outer edge length, thickness, width, slope and topographic complexity were collected at three selected sites. Moreover, photographic replicates were used to assess shell aperture density and diameters of Dendropoma sp. Associated fauna was studied using two quantitative sampling squares in each transect. The results showed that the vermetid bioconstruction consisted of a thin, encrusted monolayer (thickness < 1.5 cm) that extended for 3.273 linear kilometers, covering 17.23% of the investigated area; it had an average width of 0.5 m, with a mean density of Dendropoma sp. at 2.52 ind/cm2. The associated fauna was composed of 47 taxa dominated by crustaceans, mollusks and annelids. Species richness was correlated with the bioconstruction's thickness and complexity. These findings underline the ecological importance of vermetid bioconstructions as biodiversity hotspots. The lack of massive mortality events along the Apulian coast, in contrast to other Mediterranean vermetid bioconstructions, underscores the necessity for targeted conservation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The focus of the present study was on arcturid isopods occurring in the subarctic region around Iceland. Data from two decades of sampling with an epibenthic sledge (EBS) during numerous expeditions of the BIOICE (Benthic Invertebrates of Icelandic Waters; 1992–2004) and IceAGE (Icelandic marine Animals: Genetics and Ecology; 2011—ongoing) projects were incorporated into an integrative taxonomy approach. This approach linked distribution records, morphological and molecular examinations, with video and image data observed during recent expeditions in 2018 (MSM75) and 2020 (SO276) using the Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) PHOCA and Kiel 6000 from GEOMAR. The resulting dataset from 120 sampling locations included 6852 specimens, a large percentage of which were fixed in formalin during BIOICE. Ethanol‐fixed specimens collected during IceAGE were used to link morphotypes with haplotypes and occurrence locations, focusing on the coral association of the genus Astacilla Cordiner, 1793. The IceAGE sampling was complemented by ROV image and video data and noninvasive sampling, making it possible to obtain pictures of living specimens of A. longicornis. The species A. longicornis Sowerby, 1806 showed a distribution linked to cold‐water occurrence and was sampled from Paramuricea placomus. Astacilla boreaphilis Stranky & Svavarsson, 2006, occurring only south of Iceland, showed high morphological variation in the spine pattern of adult females, while the molecular results indicated no clear pattern of potentially ongoing species radiation or cryptic species. Astacilla granulata was exclusively found north of Iceland. Thus, the species' distribution is potentially influenced by the Greenland‐Faroe Ridge, which separates the North Atlantic from the Arctic Ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field campaigns were carried out in the North, Center, and South of Tunisia (2017–2022). Through this, three anophthalmous species of Trichorhina from three different localities in the North and Center-East of Tunisia were recognized as new to science, and consequently as the first record of the genus from Tunisia. A detailed morphological description of these three new species is provided. The abiotic factors of their habitat and micro-habitat are provided as well as their associated fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benthic ecosystem has been widely considered as an important feature of seagrass associated fauna, and its function as a grazer and linkage between primary producers and higher trophic level is well known. Though the importance of benthic fauna in seagrass ecosystems has been indicated in many studies, its biodiversity in spatial scale has often been poorly studied. This study aimed at examining the assemblages and diversity of benthic associated fauna in conservation areas (CA) and non-conservation areas (NCA) across the seagrass meadows in Bali and Lombok. This study found that the assemblages and diversity of benthic fauna greatly varied between the meadows. A total of 430 individuals associated to benthic fauna from 24 species were identified in Bali and Lombok. Of these, Gastropods were the highest class of taxa recorded in this study, followed by Bivalvia, Echinodermata, Decapoda, and Amphipoda. Permutation multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) revealed a significantly different benthic fauna diversity between sites. Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling (nMDS) and Bray-Curtis analysis showed a clear distinction of benthic fauna assemblages between CA and NCA, both in Bali and Lombok. These results indicated that from spatial perspective, different characteristics of seagrass meadows may represent different biodiversity of associated fauna. These differences might be driven by different anthropogenic pressure and variation of substrates among the meadows which may affect the composition of the benthic fauna ecosystems. The implication of this study was to providing baseline data on guiding the appropriate approach and strategies for management and conservations of seagrass ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European environmental policies related to marine water management require a periodic environmental status assessment. The Marine Strategy Framework Directive 2008/56/EC clearly specifies that assessment must take into consideration benthic habitat types, including their associated biological communities. The aim of this study is to present the results of the ecological analysis of the zoobenthic communities associated with benthic habitats with macrophytic substrate and to provide new data regarding the qualitative and quantitative structure of macroinvertebrates that populate these habitats type. The broad habitats type Infralittoral rock and biogenic reef and Infralittoral sands were investigated. The analyzed data covers the summer season, 2023 based on the processing of 13 samples collected from Navodari to 2 Mai -- Vama Veche, on depths ranging between 1m to 3 m. A total of 80 macrozoobenthic species were found in all macrophytic assemblages, the Polychaeta, Crustacean and Gastropod were the dominant groups, especially Perinereis cultrifera, Platynereis dumerilii, Ampithoe ramondi, Stenothoe monoculoides, Rissoa splendida, Tricolia pullus registering a large number of individuals. For data interpretation a synecological analysis was performed allowing the identification of the species with the most significant contribution in the ecosystem in terms of function, energy exchanges with the environment, the characteristic species of a biotope or those that have an accidental presence in the studied area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In July–August 2022, the spatial distribution and the composition of local settlements of the bivalve mollusc Mya japonica Jay, 1857 in the Vostok Bay (Peter the Great Bay of the Sea of Japan) were studied. M. japonica occurred almost throughout the entire bay in a wide range of depths from 0 to 22 m at water temperatures from –1.9 to 25°С and salinity from 0 to 34‰. M. japonica was the most abundant in the shallow areas of the bays, closed from the direct wave impact, where, at a depth of up to 4–5 m, the density of the mollusc reached 27 ind./m2, and the biomass was almost 4 kg/m2, which averaged 56% of the total macrozoobenthos biomass. With increasing depth and moving from the dead-end of the bay to the open sea, the abundance of M. japonica decreased by one or two orders of magnitude. Local settlements differed significantly in size and age composition, size-frequency distribution of molluscs, indicating the nature of the replenishment of the benthic population with juveniles, as well as the proportion of commercial size individuals, which ranged from 37 to 98%. The reasons for the revealed features of the distribution and structure of the population of M. japonica are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Sampling deep-sea biota is a significant challenge because of the logistics required, in terms of vessels and equipment, to obtain minimally preserved specimens. Traditional methods (trawls, nets, and dredges) cause physical damage, stress, and even contamination during the process of removal from the seabed and their displacement through the water column to the surface. Preserving conditions similar to those found in situ is particularly important when the sampling strives to maintain living organisms and for analyses where contamination or degradation by stress or damage may interfere with the results. Therefore, for the sampling and storage of this biota with less interference, a polypropylene box was designed based on the model of Kellogg et al. (2009) incorporating adaptations to be used by a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). This new device has been successfully used in eight oceanographic campaigns, adequately performing for sediment and biota sampling, including coral reef forming or framework species (Scleractinia), octocorals, associated fauna, and rhodoliths, at depths between 50 and 900 m.

Mytilopsis leucophaeata is an estuarine bivalve native from the Gulf of Mexico and Southeast USA, and it was introduced in Europe, Asia, Caribbean, South America and Northeast USA, showing massive colonization skills. In Brazil, the single invasion records of M. leucophaeata occur in the city of Rio de Janeiro, i.e., in the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and in the Marapendi Lagoon. We conducted a new series of fieldworks in estuaries from the Rio de Janeiro state in order to evaluate the propagation of this invasive bivalve, aiming sites with proper salinities for the establishment of M. leucophaeata. A new record is given for the Maricá-Guarapina lagoon system, where M. leucophaeata mainly colonizes hard substrata (such as piers and rocks), reaching a mean density up to 43,375 specimens/m2; however, aggregates of M. leucophaeata were also observed in the soft substratum. Based on mitochondrial sequences, the taxonomic identification of the invasive bivalve was confirmed. The associated fauna to the agglomerates of M. leucophaeata in the lagoon system comprises amphipods, barnacles, tanaidaceans, isopods, crabs, polychaetes and snails. The expansion of M. leucophaeata requires a continuous investigation due to the great circulation of boats in the littoral of the Rio de Janeiro state and the increased chance of new introductions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral reefs accommodate a myriad of species, many of which live in association with a host organism. Decapod crustaceans make up a large part of this associated fauna on coral reefs. Among these, cryptochirid crabs are obligately associated with scleractinian corals, in which they create dwellings where they permanently reside. These gall crabs show various levels of host specificity, with the majority of cryptochirids inhabiting a specific coral genus or species. Here, we report the first records of gall crabs living in association with two different Porites species in the Red Sea. Crescent‐shaped dwellings were observed in Porites rus and a Porites sp. in situ, and colonies with crabs were collected for further study in the laboratory. Using a combination of morphology and DNA barcoding, the crabs were identified as belonging to Opecarcinus, a genus only known to inhabit Agariciidae corals. The coral skeleton was bleached and studied under a stereo microscope, which revealed that the Porites corals overgrew adjoining agariciid Pavona colonies. We hypothesize that the gall crab originally settled on Pavona, its primary host of choice. Due to coral interspecific competition the Porites colony overgrew the adjacent Pavona colonies, resulting in a secondary and never before reported association of Opecarcinus with Porites. These findings suggest that cryptochirid crabs can adapt to the new microenvironment provided by a different coral host and survive competition for space on coral reefs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sub-fossil red coral deposits of Sciacca (Sicily Channel) have attracted scientific attention for nearly 150 years. Their origin and formation have been long questioned and investigated, given the fact that they represent one of the most intriguing geobiological events ever to occur in the Mediterranean basin. Less attention was given to the paleo-community associated with the sub-fossil coral. Radiocarbon age determinations, in particular, were provided only for red coral, neglecting the possibility of understanding which species were simultaneously present in the coralline paleo-community and which was their role. The study of cemented coral rubble pieces revealed that Corallium rubrum covered the largest time interval (more than 3000 years) and was contemporary to many secondary epibionts over two millennia and to Madrepora oculata for about 500 years; this last finding suggested that an uncommon co-dominance between the two structuring species occurred in the nearby living communities. The lack of Fe–Mg deposits on the cemented coral rubbles coupled with the low bioerosion rate of the red coral skeletons by the demosponge Siphonodictyon coralliirubri (assessed through the analysis of the erosive paleo-scars) suggested that the deposits met with a rapid sediment cover-up. Moreover, for the first time, the analysis of a piece of cemented coral rubble of sub-fossil red coral coming from Sardinian waters confirmed that, albeit to a lesser extent, the conditions favouring the preservation of dead corals can occur also in different localities far from Sciacca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical coral reefs offer a wide variety of habitats to countless invertebrate species. Sessile host organisms especially are inhabited by small taxa, of which decapod crustaceans form one of the most diverse communities. Symbiotic palaemonid shrimp species associate with marine invertebrate hosts from multiple phyla, including cnidarians such as stony corals (Scleractinia). The intriguing gall-forming shrimp Paratypton siebenrocki, a symbiont of Acropora corals in the Indo-Pacific, was collected in the Saudi Arabian Red Sea, Kenya, and the Maldives. Based on morphology P. siebenrocki has been considered to be most closely related to the genera Anapontonia and Metapontonia; however, no clear clustering with either palaemonid genus was observed in a phylogenetic reconstruction based on 16S and COI mtDNA. Here we photo-document the dwellings of P. siebenrocki in Acropora spp. for the first time, and furthermore we report on the reproductive output of this species. The number of eggs ranged from 345 to 909 (n = 6), and embryo volume differed strongly between early- and late-stage embryos. The carapace length ranged from 2.58 to 4.55 mm for the females and 1.51 to 2.5 mm for the males (n = 5). The number and size of the embryos, combined with their specialised, secluded lifestyle, suggest that P. siebenrocki allocates higher energy towards embryo production than free-living confamilials do. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along the northern Mid-Atlantic Ridge (nMAR), in habitats under moderate (<10 °C) hydrothermal influence on the Snake Pit vent field (SP), large assemblages dominated by Bathymodiolin mussels remain poorly characterised, contrary to those in warmer habitats dominated by gastropods and alvinocaridid shrimps that were recently described. In this study, we assessed and compared the population structure, biomass, diversity and trophic interactions of two Bathymodiolus puteoserpentis assemblages and their associated fauna at SP. Three sampling units distanced by 30 cm were sampled in 2014 during the BICOSE cruise at the top of the Moose site (''Elan'' site), while few meters further down three others, distanced by ∼1 m were obtained in 2018 during the BICOSE 2 cruise at the edifice's base. We observed a micro-scale heterogeneity between these six sampling units partially explained by temperature variations, proximity to hydrothermal fluids and position on the edifice. Meiofauna dominate or co-dominate most of the sampling units, with higher densities at the base of the edifice. In terms of macrofauna, high abundance of Pseudorimula midatlantica gastropods was observed at the top of the vent edifice, while numerous Ophioctenella acies ophiuroids were found at the base. Contrary to what was expected, the apparent health and abundance of mussels seems to indicate a current climax stage of the community. However, the modification of B. puteoserpentis isotopic signatures, low number of juveniles decreasing over the two years and observations made during several French cruises in the study area raise questions about the fate of the B. puteoserpentis population over time, which remains to be verified in a future sampling campaign. • Assemblage heterogeneity at different scales linked to fluid proximity & location. • Meiofaunal groups dominated. Macrofaunal disparity between top and base of edifice. • Low number of mussel juveniles over time questions the future of the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrofauna associated with the bamboo coral Isidella elongata was analysed in the Balearic Basin at depths of 697–1308 m. The diversity of associated macrofauna and the specific associations identified depended on different morphological characteristics of colonies, such as height or density of rami. Species associated with Isidella consisted mainly of sessile fauna, such as cnidarians (the actinian Amphianthus dornhii and the solitary coral Desmophyllum dianthus) and cirripeds (Gibossaverruca sp.). The strongest relationship (commensalism) occurred for the Pontogeneiidae amphipod Dautzenbergia megacheir, living attached to colonies of Isidella and represented by all population stages from adult (oostegal) females and males to juveniles. Species-coral relationships between Dautzenbergia and bamboo corals (Isididae) are plausible. Dautzenbergia spp. showed morphological differences between Atlantic (described by Walker 1897 as "eyes wanting") and Mediterranean (with well-developed reddish eyes) specimens. This would suggest diversification of this genus, as has been recently suggested for Pleustidae associated with deep gorgonians. The diversity of the macrofaunal community associated with I. elongata was higher in the most mature (larger colonies with higher density) fields found NW of Mallorca, with higher colonies than in other parts of the Mediterranean. This was the only site where Gibossaverruca sp. (a first Mediterranean faunal record) and D. dianthus were collected. These complex associations between macrofauna and deep-water corals may provide arguments to protect these fragile ecosystems as a source of faunal diversity and diversification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mussel beds are an important habitat in many coastal systems, harboring a high diversity of biota. They are threatened by anthropogenic impacts that affect mussels and their associated assemblages. Pollution, harvesting, trampling, dredging and trawling are major threats faced by these communities. Most of the studies on the effects of such impacts on the mussel beds overlook the associated fauna. Since mussels are very resilient, especially to pollution, the associated fauna can provide a better footprint of the impacts' effects. In this review, we looked into the main remarks regarding the effects of anthropogenic impacts in mussel bed communities. Organic pollution was the best studied impact and the Atlantic region was the best studied zone. Low values of abundance, biomass, diversity, evenness and species richness were reported for all categories of impacts, with some studies describing declines in at least three of these descriptors. Among the associated fauna, some tolerant species benefited from the impacts, particularly organic enrichment, and became more abundant, but sensitive species suffered considerable declines in density, mainly in dredging and trawling impacts. Therefore, fauna associated with mussel beds is a suitable indicator of anthropogenic disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vertical distribution of the bivalve Tetrarca boucardi is studied at several sites in Vostok Bay, which largely characterize the diversity of biotopes of the upper subtidal zone of Peter the Great Bay (the Sea of Japan). In this part of the species range, at a depth of 0.5–10 m, T. boucardi forms stable perennial populations, in which there is the regular replenishment by juveniles; the population lifetime apparently many times exceeds the bivalve's individual lifespan. The maximum shell length of T. boucardi is 74 mm; the maximum individual age is 19 years. The most abundant accumulations of T. boucardi with a biomass of 530 g/m2 (36.7% of the total biomass of macrozoobenthos) are found in shallow water at a depth of about 3 m in semi-protected inner parts of the bay, which are well warmed in summer. For the first time, it is found that relatively sheltered habitats on wave-exposed rock reefs mainly at a depth of 0.5–1.5 m are also favorable for the species (average biomass, 72.7 g/m2; 11.2%). T. boucardi also occurred on soft bottoms at a depth of 1–10 m (average biomass, 22.2 g/m2; about 2%) in druses of large bivalves Modiolus kurilensis and Crenomytilus grayanus. Local differences in the abundance and composition of T. boucardi populations are discussed in relation to the habitat conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the marine environment competition between sessile organisms may influence habitat conditions for associated small invertebrates, acting as a selective pressure for individuals with suitable traits to select profitable habitats and leading individuals less adapted to occupy unfavourable habitats. Intraspecific competition may also influence the habitat selection of marine amphipods in different habitat conditions. In the present study, we describe a new Photis species (Photidae: Senticaudata) and analyse its morphological variation influenced by different habitat conditions. Photis oxalai sp. nov. is unique in showing the male gnathopod 1 propodus ventral margin rounded with a spine near the hinge of the dactylus and male gnathopod 2 propodus palm with three pronounced spines and a mesial excavation. This is the first record of the genus in Bahia State. We compared individuals associated with sponges in direct competition with Tubastraea spp. (Scleractinia: Dendrophylliidae) and individuals associated with sponges that were established free from this interaction, analysing morphological traits influenced by the competition between hosts. We did not record any differences in morphological patterns; therefore, the pattern of morphological variation among individuals is not influenced by habitat conditions that emerged from the competition of the host with the sun coral. Photis oxalaisp. nov. shows a generalist behaviour in habitat selection at the local scale, suggesting that this species may not be a profitable model for studying the influence of the sun coral on native communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: associated fauna; Caatinga biome; ecosystem engineer; plant-animal interaction EN associated fauna Caatinga biome ecosystem engineer plant-animal interaction 1 5 5 09/03/21 20210901 NES 210901 A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its natural environment relative to its abundance (Power et al. 1996). Although the ecosystem engineering capacity of tank bromeliads is well known, bromeliads that do not form phytotelmata habitats can also act as important keystone species. I spectabile i clumps function as a refuge for these species, and the choice of these sites as nesting sites shows the importance of conserving these bromeliads, mainly in terms of maintaining important sites for species reproduction, and undoubtedly for those that have strict interactions with these bromeliads. Associated fauna, Caatinga biome, ecosystem engineer, plant-animal interaction. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Little is known about the antipatharians in Costa Rica, only three species are known from the Pacific and the occurrence of coral forests was previously reported only for Isla del Coco. Black coral forests were observed at several sites in the north Pacific of the country, within the Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG), which are reported and characterized in this study. Objective: To determine the species of black corals present in the ACG Marine Sector and its surroundings, and geographically locate the sites where black coral forests grow. Methods: Visual censuses were made by diving, samples were taken and analyzed in the laboratory for identification. Results: These black coral forests are composed of two species: Myriopathes panamensis and Antipathes galapagensis, these species are described and illustrated. The coral forests were found within and outside ACG marine protected areas. Myriopathes panamensis was found between 15-35 m depth and A. galapagensis at 30-45 m. Associated macrofauna was observed among the branches of M. panamensis, their ecological importance and status have not been determined. Conclusions: The species found did not have morphological variations with those described in other similar regions. Associated fauna was found (mainly the anemone Nemanthus californicus, the bivalve Pteria sterna and the longnose hawkfish Oxycirrhithes typus) and needs to be studied to determine its role on black corals. The importance of the ACG as a marine biodiversity conservation site is emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive brown alga Sargassum muticum was first recorded in Norway in 1988 and is presently common in the sublittoral fringe on the sheltered coast in South Norway. Here, results from a study on mesofauna associated with S. muticum in an archipelago on the southwest coast of Norway are presented, with two stations placed in sounds exposed to tidal currents and two in sheltered bays. Sargassum muticum occurred with a patchy distribution and an estimated density of less than 7 individuals m−2 at three of the stations (two in sheltered bays and one in a sound) and 42 individuals m−2 at the fourth station (placed in a sound). A total of 102 distinct faunal taxa were identified, with an average of 31 taxa per sample. Crustacea and Gastropoda constituted around half of the identified taxa. Fauna richness showed no relation to site type but had a curvilinear correlation with habitat size (dry weight of thallus). Total and sessile fauna richness showed a significant negative correlation with branching density. Vagile faunal density showed a curvilinear correlation with weight of epiphytes and was significantly related to site type with higher densities in the bays. The community composition of vagile fauna reflected this and was significantly related to site type, but not to epiphyte weight or branching density. When including sessile taxa in a community analysis the stations became less separated, and the community was significantly influenced by branch density. Thus, both site characteristics and morphology of S. muticum influenced the associated fauna community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bromeliads are widely recognized for their role as biodiversity amplifiers in the Neotropical region. Some animal taxa are well known for their relationships with bromeliads, such as aquatic insects and amphibians, but others, such as lizards, are still neglected when it comes to association with these plants. In this study, we present a bibliographic review about the association of lizards with bromeliads, aiming to determine the diversity of lizard taxa and the geographical distribution of the available records. We found a total of 72 bibliographic sources that reported at least one lizard species in association with bromeliads. These records are distributed in 11 families, 26 genera and 69 lizard species. The geographic distribution of records covers 16 countries and oceanic islands in the Americas, with most records in Brazil. Twenty lizard species are officially threatened to extinction according to IUCN criteria, which corresponds to 29% of all recorded species. Based on these results, we propose actions for the conservation of bromeliads, with consequent conservation of associated lizard species, as has been proposed for amphibians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there is little comparative data on 'efficiency' of different engineering species, i.e. species richness, density and biomass of the associated organisms that have been supported by engineering species. The use of fouling communities makes it possible to compare the efficiency of different engineering species under the same conditions, which is necessary to obtain correct estimates and difficult to do when studying natural bottom communities. In this study, we have analysed the fouling communities in four different mussel culture farms in the White Sea to test the following hypotheses. (1) Different engineering species (mussel Mytilus edulis, solitary ascidian Styela rustica, sponge Halichondria panicea) have different assemblages of the associated vagile fauna. (2) Mytilus edulis is the most efficient engineering species, i.e. species richness, species diversity, density and biomass of the associated vagile fauna is higher in the mussel communities than in those dominated by Styela rustica or Halichondria panicea. The first hypothesis was confirmed, while the second was rejected. In all the culture farms studied, all parameters of the mussel-associated vagile fauna were not higher and in most cases were even lower than those of the fauna associated with ascidians or sponges. The reason for this seems to be the very dense packing of mussels in patches. Therefore, Mytilus edulis is not the most efficient engineering species among fouling organisms, at least in the conditions of the subarctic White Sea. The data obtained are particularly important in view of the ever-increasing volume of anthropogenic substrate and fouling communities in coastal marine ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the distribution and spread of the non-indigenous red alga Lophocladia lallemandii (Montagne) F. Schmitz along the coast of the Island of Ischia (Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy). Lophocladia lallemandii was monitored through surveys from July 2019 to January 2020 at the Capo Sant'Angelo (Ischia), where L. lallemandii was observed, but not reported, in the years preceding the invasion of the upper rocky infralittoral shore reported here. It is noteworthy that a large portion of the study area is included within one of the two "B no-take" zones of the Marine Protected Area of the "Regno di Nettuno" ("Neptune's Realm"). During the surveys, the alga was first observed in the middle of July 2019 and totally disappeared by the middle of January 2020. Algal cover showed two peaks in August (55%) and November (58.5%). Fertile thalli (tetrasporophytes) of L. lallemandii were observed in all of the analysed samples. Thalli were not always strongly attached to the substrate or other algae and could often be easily detached by strong hydrodynamic conditions. These detached thalli were found laying on the bottom in dense turfs or floating or stranding on the beach. Noteworthy were the macroflora and fauna, the latter essentially composed by mollusks and amphipods, living among the branches of the alga, and various fishes hiding within the thick algal turf. These observations indicate that this alga may be a source of food and refuge for the native animal community of the upper rocky infralittoral zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat structure increases richness and abundance of species in many environments by providing easy access to resources and refuge from predators. In coral reefs, corals are habitat for many organisms and differences in their morphologies may act as variation in habitat structure for associated fauna. In the present study, we investigate whether there are differences in the richness and abundance of molluscs associated with three species of Mussismilia corals exhibiting different growth morphologies, in two different reef areas of the Bahia state. Mussismilia harttii has a meandroid pattern, M. hispida is a massive coral, M. braziliensis also has a massive growth pattern with crevices at the corallum base. Coral characteristics were measured in the laboratory. Significant differences were identified for richness among coral species – higher values were reported in colonies of M. harttii and no significant statistical differences were observed between M. braziliensis and M. hispida. Considering the density of associated molluscs, the same pattern was found. The results are in accordance with previous studies and indicate the importance of M. harttii as a key habitat to maintain a richer and more abundant associated fauna. The internal volume of interpolypal space is an important factor influencing the richness and density of associated species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neoparmulella periperiensis gen. et sp. nov. is a new siphonostomatoid copepod found associated with an endemic octocoral Phyllogorgia dilatata (Esper) in Bahia State, northeastern region of Brazil. The new genus belongs to the subfamily Parmulodinae which is recorded for the first time in the South Atlantic Ocean. The new genus differs from all other entomolepidids once it shows the fourth leg biramous and 3-segmented. The third endopodal segment of leg 4 also bears reduced setation. Modifications on the family diagnosis are proposed in order to accommodate the new genus and recent species described. The validity of the subfamilies is also discussed. MS - Genus - species - [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The Caribbean scleractinian reef coral Agaricia undata (Agariciidae) is recorded for the first time as a host of the coral-gall crab Opecarcinus hypostegus (Cryptochiridae). The identity of the crab was confirmed with the help of DNA barcoding. The association has been documented with photographs taken in situ at 25 m depth and in the laboratory. The predominantly mesophotic depth range of the host species suggests this association to be present also at greater depths. With this record, all seven Agaricia species are now listed as gall-crab hosts, together with the agariciid Helioseris cucullata. Within the phylogeny of Agariciidae, Helioseris is not closely related to Agaricia. Therefore, the association between Caribbean agariciids and their gall-crab symbionts may either have originated early in their shared evolutionary history or later as a result of host range expansion. New information on coral-associated fauna, such as what is presented here, leads to a better insight on the diversity, evolution, and ecology of coral reef biota, particularly in the Caribbean, where cryptochirids have rarely been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhodolith beds are known worldwide to host high biodiversity to several taxa. Despite their importance, few ecological data explored the influence of rhodolith features and environmental variables on associated biodiversity, a gap that has been hampering the mapping of diversity hotspots and priority areas for conservation. In this study, we investigated large-scale spatial variations of rhodolith beds and their associated fauna, using annelid polychaetes as a biological model. We aimed to identify proxies, based on rhodolith features and environmental variables, to detect biodiversity hotspots across Southwestern Atlantic beds, laying the groundwork for mapping priority areas for conservation. With this goal, we sampled a total of 136 rhodolith nodules across seven sites with beds under distinct latitudes, depths, distances from the mainland coast of Brazil, and rhodolith densities. For each nodule sampled, we measured the volume, diameter, and mass of sediment trapped, as well as the attributes of the associated polychaetes (abundance, richness, diversity, and composition). Our results revealed a complex network of collinearities and synergisms between the rhodolith features and the majority of the polychaetes attributes (i.e., abundance, diversity, and composition). Polychaete richness, in contrast, can be explained by the combination of two proxies: (1) rhodolith nodule diameter and (2) distance of the rhodolith bed from the mainland coast. Nearshore rhodolith beds and larger nodules were associated with higher values of richness. Additionally, rhodoliths with a hollow morphology were also associated with higher values of polychaete richness. These results suggest that nearshore rhodolith beds with large and hollow nodules could be priority areas for conservation. However, further multi-taxa studies using our framework are still needed to explore other regions and scales, delineating more comprehensive proxies for predicting ecological patterns of the rhodoliths associated fauna and to identify priorities for conservation across Southwestern Atlantic beds. • Rhodolith beds in Southwestern Atlantic globally recognized for high biodiversity. • Polychaetes were used to identify proxies for detecting biodiversity hotspots. • Species richness is linked to rhodolith nodule diameter and distance from mainland coast. • Rhodolith beds with large, hollow nodules and close to the mainland coast, may be priority areas for conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several inventories of insect galls have been performed in the Atlantic Forest of Rio de Janeiro, mostly in restingas, whereas the other phytophysiognomies remain poorly sampled. The present study inventoried the insect galls of Reserva Biológica União (RJ), a protected area comprising mainly Ombrophilous Forest. Field work was performed every two months from January to October, 2013. Insect galls were collected, photographed, characterized and transported to the laboratory. Adults were obtained by rearing and immature stages by gall dissection. The insects were deposited in the Cecidomyiidae Collection of the Museu Nacional. A total of 153 gall morphotypes were found on plants representing 37 plant families, 69 genera, 55 species and 53 morphospecies. Among them, two plant genera and five species were reported for the first time as host plants in Ombrophilous Forest. REBIO União showed little similarlity of host plant species and insect gall morphotypes when compared with other investigated Ombrophilous Forest areas. The leaf was the most attacked plant organ as expected. Asteraceae, Bignoniaceae, Fabaceae and Myrtaceae, and Mikania (Asteraceae) and Myrcia (Myrtaceae) were the richest host families and genera, respectivey, in number of gall morphotypes, all previously indicated as superhosts by other Brazilian Ombrophilous Forest inventories, except Bignoniaceae. Their great species richness may be related to their great gall richness, adding evidence in support of the taxon size hypothesis. Fusiform and globose galls were the most frequent, green was the predominant color, and most morphotypes did not present an indumentum. The highest gall richness was recorded in June and August. The gallers were distributed among Diptera (Cecidomyiidae), Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Hemiptera and Thysanoptera, with the first being predominant, following a global pattern. Eight gall-inducing species are recorded for the first time in REBIO União and four in Ombrophilous Forest. About 25% of the gall morphotypes were occupied by dwellers other than those that created the gall. They comprised parasitoids (Hymenoptera), inquilines (Diptera: Sciaridae and Muscomorpha, Hemiptera, and Lepidoptera) and successors (Psocoptera, mites, and Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Although these taxa were previously reported by Brazilian inventories of insect galls, 12 new association with plants are recorded. The amount of new records reinforces the importance of inventories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sponges provide an array of ecological services and benefits for Caribbean coral reefs. They function as habitats for a bewildering variety of species, however limited attention has been paid in the systematics and distribution of sponge-associated fauna in the class Calcarea or for that matter of sponges in the Caribbean. The goal of this study was to characterize infaunal assemblages from a calcareous sponge, Clathrina lutea, across multiple reefs from the La Parguera Natural Reserve, Puerto Rico. The associated fauna from 43 C. lutea specimens yielded a total of 2,249 associated infauna distributed in seven invertebrate phyla. Arthropoda was the most abundant phylum accounting for 62.5% of total abundance, followed by Annelida (21.0%) and Nematoda (5.5%). Limited patterns of temporal or spatial variability were surmised due to the opportunistic sampling effort afforded to this investigation from the cryptic nature of this species. A concordance between our data set and those for the class Demospongiae were observed, with the most abundant associated fauna being copepods and polychaetes. However, when compared to other Calcarea, the present study found considerably more associated fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the variation in the benthic macrofauna related to the presence of Sabellaria wilsoni (Polychaeta: Sabellariidae) reefs on a sandy beach of the Brazilian Amazon Coast. The study also investigated whether the erosion of parts of the reef by intense wave action results in differences in the fauna. Samples were collected from a patch of reef and the adjacent sandy sediment for the analysis of the zoobenthos and substrates (granulometry and organic matter content) on Algodoal-Maiandeua Island (northern Brazil coast). The reef had more heterogeneous sediments and a higher organic matter content, and its fauna was distinct from that of the beach, with a higher density, species richness and diversity. The reef fauna included taxa typical of both consolidated and unconsolidated substrates. The portion of the reef more exposed to wave action had a lower density of reef-building worms, and these worms were smaller in size than those of the more protected portion, although the associated fauna of the exposed portion was denser and richer in species. These results confirmed that S. wilsoni is an important ecosystem engineer on the Amazon coast, and that the diversity and unique features of the fauna associated with these reefs emphasize their importance as a substrate for the local benthic communities, in particular in areas where consolidated bottoms are naturally scarce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seaweeds play a key role in the rocky-shore fauna by providing shelter and food for many invertebrate species, which in turn compose the diet of benthic and pelagic predators. This study investigated the effect of the macroalgal host species on an assemblage of associated amphipods, and tested if the host mediates the vulnerability of amphipods to predation. The association of amphipods with the macroalgal hosts Dichotomaria marginata, Padina gymnospora, and Sargassum filipendula was evaluated seasonally for 1 year on a subtropical rocky shore on the southeastern coast of Brazil. The density of amphipods did not vary with season or host. However, the composition of amphipod species was sensitive to the host macroalgal species and varied temporally. A field experiment showed no clear effect of predation on the amphipod assemblage. Also, predation did not explain the spatial or temporal variation of the amphipod assemblage. Our results indicate that the identity of the macroalgal host drove the composition of the associated amphipods, while predation may have a minor role. Therefore, the loss of habitat-forming organisms such as seaweeds is expected to have drastic consequences for the composition of associated fauna, and consequently on the flow of matter and energy in coastal ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligochaeta are still characterized as a poorly studied group among the aquatic macroinvertebrates and few studies about their ecology were conducted in Brazil. Thus, our study aimed to provide an overview of the association between Oligochaeta and macrophytes, in Brazilian continental aquatic environments, by means of a literature review along with an inventory of species associated to aquatic macrophytes on marginal lagoons in the reservoir Ribeirão das Anhumas (Américo Brasiliense, São Paulo, Brazil). In the review, we analyzed 10 articles, where we obtained data on 41 species. We also sampled 5 macrophyte genera, Egeria, Salvinia, Utricularia, Eleocharis, and Ceratophyllum, from August to December 2012 and in March and April 2013, in the reservoir Ribeirão das Anhumas. We registered 21 Oligochaeta species associated to these macrophytes. With the data obtained in the review along with the inventory of the reservoir Ribeirão das Anhumas, we found a total of 41 species associated to aquatic macrophytes, with a higher richness of the Naididae family (93.33%), followed by Opistocystidae (4.44%), and Alluroididae (2.22%). Our study inventoried about 48% of the Oligochaeta diversity registered in continental ecosystems in Brazil, thus highlighting the significance of macrophytes as a resource for these invertebrates, mainly for the Naididae family.

ABSTRACT Two Pantanal areas were investigated in Corumbá, Mato Grosso do Sul. The field works were carried out in five trails, in August and December/2011 and April/2012. Seventy-six gall morphotypes were found in 52 host plants, 22 of them were identified at species level and 30 at genus. Fabaceae, Myrtaceae and Sapindaceae were the plant families with the greatest richness of gall. Leaves were the plant organ with the greatest gall richness. Six gall shapes were found - globoid, lenticular, fusiform, cylindrical, conical, and marginal roll. The three first were the most common. Five colors were observed - green, brown, red, yellow, and black. Green and brown predominated. Most were glabrous and one-chambered. These features have been indicated in several Brazilian biomes. Diptera (Cecidomyiidae) were the most frequent gallers. The associated fauna comprised parasitoids (Eulophidae, Braconidae, Eupelmidae, Eurytomidae, Platygastridae, and Pteromalidae), inquilines (Cecidomyiidae: Trotteria Kieffer, 1902, Hymenoptera: Tanaostigmoides Ashmead, 1896, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera and Thysanoptera) and predators (Pseudoscorpionida: Olpiolum medium Beier, 1931, Cecidomyiidae: Lestodiplosini and Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Parasitoids were the most frequent. Multiparatism was observed. Our data represent the first contribution to the knowledge of the associated fauna in the Pantanal.

Among material collected in colonies of Spirobranchus triqueter (Linnaeus, 1758) from the Sea of Marmara in 2013, 825 individuals belonging to 13 species of isopods were found. Of these, Janira maculosa Leach, 1814 is represented by the highest number of specimens (45% of the total number of specimens). All species are being reported to be associated with the serpulid colony of S. triqueter herein for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sabellaria alveolata is a widespread coastal engineer species that builds sandy bioconstructions in coastal marine habitats, which host a rich associated fauna. Some of these associated species are quite common on rocky or sandy substrates, but few taxa are strictly linked to Sabellaria reefs. In this study, we report, for the first time, the phyllodocid worm Eulalia ornata in the Tyrrhenian Sea and highlight its high-fidelity link with S. alveolata bioconstructions. Despite being included in the European Red List of Habitats, little is known about Sabellaria reefs, their associated fauna and their ecological role in the Mediterranean Sea. For these reasons, studies aiming at improving our knowledge of S. alveolata reefs and their associated fauna can be regarded as an important step towards more appropriate management plans for sensitive coastal habitats. Sabellaria alveolata is a coastal engineer species that builds sandy reefs, hosting a rich associated fauna. In this study we report, for the first time, the phyllodocid worm Eulalia ornata in the Tyrrhenian Sea and highlight its high-fidelity link with S. alveolata bioconstructions. Studies aimed at improving our knowledge of Sabellaria reefs and their associated fauna are an important step towards more appropriate management plans for sensitive coastal habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Neotropical Biology & Conservation is the property of Pensoft Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

For marine benthic communities, environmental heterogeneity at small spatial scales are mostly due to biologically produced habitat heterogeneity and biotic interactions, while at larger spatial scales environmental factors may prevails over biotic features. In this study, we investigated how community structure and β-diversity of hard-bottom-associated meio- and macrofauna varied in relation to small-scale (cm−m) changes in biological substrate (an algae “turf” dominated by the macroalgae Gelidium sp., the macroalgae Caulerpa racemosa and the sponge Hymeniacidon heliophile) in a rocky shore and in relation to larger-scale (10’s m) changes in environmental conditions of the same biological substrate (the macroalgae Bostrychia sp) in different habitats (rocky shore vs. mangrove roots). Results showed that both substrate identity and the surrounding environment were important in structuring the smaller-sized meiofauna, particularly the nematode assemblages, whereas the larger and more motile macrofauna was influenced only by larger-scale changes in the surrounding ecosystem. This implies that the macrofauna explores the environment in a larger spatial scale compared to the meiofauna, suggesting that effects of spatial heterogeneity on communities are dependent on organism size and mobility. Changes in taxa composition between environments and substrates highlight the importance of habitat diversity at different scales for maintaining the diversity of the associated fauna.

The Bromeliaceae family exhibits several adaptations that allow the occurrence of its members in different physiognomies, including the Caatinga. The arrangement of leaves in rosette forms a cistern or tank, in which nutrient-rich water accumulates. This provides a microhabitat for reproduction, feeding, and larval development of many invertebrates. The aim of this study was to survey the bromeliad-associated invertebrate fauna to test the hypothesis of seasonal changes in community composition. We conducted two surveys in the rainy (February, 2011) and dry (August, 2012) seasons in the Floresta Nacional (Flona) of Contendas do Sincorá, municipality of Contendas do Sincorá, Bahia state, Brazil. We delimited fifteen 5 m x 5 m sampling plots along a 355 m trail. Two terrestrial bromeliads (Aechmea bromeliifolia) were collected per plot. Invertebrate fauna were identified and richness, abundance and composition were analyzed. The richness of taxa did not differ between seasons and was considered high for Caatinga. Abundance and composition differed between the rainy and dry seasons. The present study demonstrates the importance of bromeliads as available water resources for the local invertebrate community. Our findings also provide a framework for more in-depth studies on animal-plant interactions, and for the conservation of Caatinga animals and plants.

FifteenLopheliareefs from offshore to coastal areas off northern Norway were studied using video. Health status of the coral habitat (degree of physical impact, % cover of living tissue, colony size), occurrence of trawl marks and lost fishing gear, height of coral colonies and associated fauna were analysed from 44 video-lines. Fishing impact was more frequent on the offshore reefs (36.5% of the observed areas) than those in the coastal reefs (0.6%). The most visible effects of fishing were broken and displaced coral colonies. At some sites only small scattered fragments of live corals were observed, indicating recent impact. The mean colony height ofLopheliaand gorgonian corals at impacted sites was around half the size of those at non-impacted sites. Both species richness and abundance was higher at non-impacted coral habitats compared to impacted. The actinarianProtanthea simplexand unidentified brittlestars were the only taxa with higher abundance on impacted compared with non-impacted habitats. The reefs at the offshore location were protected against bottom trawling in 2009 through the establishment of a marine protected area (MPA), but a general ban against trawling on known coral reefs had already been implemented in 1999. In the MPA, signs of regrowth were observed. Most of the observed damage probably occurred over 10 years earlier. Results show that live and non-impacted cold water coral reefs have an important ecological function by enhancing the local biodiversity and fish abundance. Preventing further damage to impacted reefs may lead to full recovery within a few decades. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A study of epibiosis of the brown alga Costaria costata in the sublittoral zone of Vostok Bay, Sea of Japan during the spring and summer of 2016 showed that hermit crabs of the following four species accounted for approximately 85% of the total biomass: Pagurus proximus, P. minutus, P. brachiomastus, and P. middendorffii. Of these, the most abundant one (96.5% of the total number of hermit crabs) was P. proximus, the mean aggregation density of which on C. costata (429 _ 221 ind./m²) was higher by an order of magnitude than that in the adjacent area of the bouldery bottom. The size ranges of males and females of this species in aggregations on boulders and those on C. costata were similar, with a predominance of larger individuals on algae. In the size-frequency distribution, three groups of individuals corresponding to three size-age cohorts were differentiated. The male-to-female ratio was 1 : 1.7. Hermit crab aggregations on C. costata are ephemeral; their existence is determined by the duration of the period of algae development, that is, from late spring to the middle of the summer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]