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Modeling of beta diversity in Tunisian waters: predictions using generalized dissimilarity modeling and bioregionalisation using fuzzy clustering
Ben Rais Lasram, F.; Hattab, T.; Halouani, G.; Romdhane, M.S.; Le Loc'h, F. (2015). Modeling of beta diversity in Tunisian waters: predictions using generalized dissimilarity modeling and bioregionalisation using fuzzy clustering. PLoS One 10(7): e0131728. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0131728
In: PLoS One. Public Library of Science: San Francisco. ISSN 1932-6203; e-ISSN 1932-6203, more
Peer reviewed article  

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Keyword
    Marine/Coastal

Authors  Top 
  • Ben Rais Lasram, F.
  • Hattab, T.
  • Halouani, G.
  • Romdhane, M.S.
  • Le Loc'h, F.

Abstract
    Spatial patterns of beta diversity are a major focus of ecology. They can be especially valuable in conservation planning. In this study, we used a generalized dissimilarity modeling approach to analyze and predict the spatial patterns of beta diversity for commercially exploited, demersal marine species assemblages along the Tunisian coasts. For this study, we used a presence/absence dataset which included information on 174 species (invertebrates and fishes) and 9 environmental variables. We first performed the modeling analyses and assessed beta diversity using the turnover component of the Jaccard’s dissimilarity index. We then performed nonmetric multidimensional scaling to map predicted beta diversity. To delineate the biogeographical regions, we used fuzzy cluster analysis. Finally, we also identified a set of indicator species which characterized the species assemblages in each identified biogeographical region. The predicted beta diversity map revealed two patterns: an inshore-offshore gradient and a south-north latitudinal gradient. Three biogeographical regions were identified and 14 indicator species. These results constitute a first contribution of the bioregionalisation of the Tunisian waters and highlight the issues associated with current fisheries management zones and conservation strategies. Results could be useful to follow an Ecosystem Based Management approach by proposing an objective spatial partitioning of the Tunisian waters. This partitioning could be used to prioritize the adjustment of the actual fisheries management entities, identify current data gaps, inform future scientific surveys and improve current MPA network.

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