Abstract
Rhodolith beds (RBs) are bioconstructions characterized by coralline algae, which provide habitat for several associated species. Mediterranean RBs are usually located in the mesophotic zone (below 40 m), and thus are frequently remote and unexplored. Recently, the importance and vulnerability of these habitats have been recognized by the European Community and more attention has been drawn to their investigation and conservation. This study reports the results of an extensive monitoring program, carried out within the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC), in six sites off the Campania coast (Italy, Mediterranean Sea). New insights were given into the distribution, cover, vitality (i.e., live/dead rhodolith ratio), structural complexity, and coralline algae composition of RBs. Remotely operated vehicles (ROV) investigations allowed the description of several RBs, and the discovery of a RB with rhodolith cover >65% offshore the Capri Island. Only two sites (Secchitiello and Punta Campanella) showed a very low mean cover of live rhodoliths (<10%); hence, not being classifiable as RBs. The collected rhodoliths were mostly small pralines (~2 cm), spheroidal to ellipsoidal, with growth-forms ranging from encrusting/warty to fruticose/lumpy. Coralline algae identification revealed a high diversity within each bed, with a total of 13 identified taxa. The genus Lithothamnion dominated all sites, and Phymatolithon calcareum and Lithothamnion corallioides, protected by the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), were detected in all RBs.
Highlights
Rhodolith beds (RBs) are biogenic habitats formed by unattached, non-geniculate coralline algae (CA; Corallinophycidae, Rhodophyta) [1]
This study reports the results of an extensive regional-scale monitoring program, carried out within the MSDF, to provide new insights into the distribution, ecological status, and CA composition of deep Mediterranean RBs occurring off the Campania coast (Italy)
It was followed by Secchitiello, Capri, Ischia, and Punta Campanella
Summary
Rhodolith beds (RBs) are biogenic habitats formed by unattached, non-geniculate coralline algae (CA; Corallinophycidae, Rhodophyta) [1]. Rhodolith sizes range from 1 to 10 cm, varying from highly branched to roundish shapes [2,3,4] These habitats have a worldwide distribution, having been described in tropical [5,6,7], temperate [8,9,10,11], and polar [12,13,14] regions, from the low intertidal zone to depths over 150 m [4,15]. RBs are relevant in climate regulation, through their role in CO2 uptake, primary production, and carbonate production [1,24] Through their CaCO3 production and dissolution, they contribute to the carbonate cycle of continental shelf ecosystems [6,25]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
