Abstract

Summary High salinity appears to have a limiting effect on the echinoderm fauna and other biota of the Arabian Gulf. However, two ophiuroids (Amphipholis squamata and Amphiura fasciata) and one holothurian (Leptosynapta chela) were recorded in areas of high salinity (52–55‰.), and two asteroids (Astropecten polyacanthus phragmorus and Asterina burtoni) were present in lagoons where salinities reach 60‰. The latter may represent a new record for salinity tolerance by echinoderms in the wild. High salinity populations of both asteroids are characterized by stunted individuals.

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