Seasonal variation of the macrozoobenthic community structure at low salinities in a Mediterranean lagoon (Monolimni Lagoon, Northern Aegean)
Kevrekidis, T. (Ed.) (2004). Seasonal variation of the macrozoobenthic community structure at low salinities in a Mediterranean lagoon (Monolimni Lagoon, Northern Aegean). Int. Rev. Hydrobiol. 89(4): 407-425. dx.doi.org/10.1002/iroh.200310703
In: International Review of Hydrobiology. Wiley: Weinheim. ISSN 1434-2944; e-ISSN 1522-2632, more
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| Keywords |
Aquatic communities > Benthos
Composition > Community composition
Properties > Chemical properties > Salinity
Water bodies > Lagoons
MED, Mediterranean [Marine Regions]
Marine/Coastal |
| Author keywords |
macrozoobenthos; community structure; salinity; lagoon; Mediterranean Sea |
| Abstract |
The macrozoobenthic community structure and dynamics at low salinities (0.3–6 psu) in a Mediterranean lagoon (Monolimni lagoon) were investigated. Samples were collected monthly from February 1998 to February 1999 at two sampling stations. Community structure was analyzed by means of uni- and multivariate methods. 21 taxa were collected; the amphipod Corophium orientale and the gastropod Ventrosia maritima dominated the assemblages. Total abundance peaked (50,000–60,000 individuals m–2) in mid or late autumn. Community structure showed an almost even seasonal periodicity; seasonal changes were mainly derived from the intense variation in abundance of most species and the non–occurrence of a few ones (e.g.Corophium insidiosum, Polydora ciliata) in spring and summer. Non– occurrence, which led to a depression of the most diversity indices, was possibly the only direct impact of the extremely low salinities (~0.3 psu) on community structure. The main structuring factors of the community in the deeper outer part of the lagoon were water temperature and depth, and in the innermost part, where a Ruppia maritima meadow occurred, were water temperature and predation pressure by crabs (Carcinus aestuarii) and gobies (Knipowitchia caucasica). A temporary decline in total abundance in summer followed an increase in abundance of these predators. |
| Dataset |
- Monthly variation in the macrozoobenthic community structure in Monolimni Lagoon (Evros Delta, N. Aegean Sea), more
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