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Description of Tricleocaropa fragilis beds as a distinct habitat in the Columbretes Islands Marine Reserve (NW Mediterranean)
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1  Centre Oceanogràfic de les Balears, Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), 07015 Palma, Spain
Academic Editor: Azizur Rahman

Abstract:

Tricleocarpa fragilis (L.) Huisman & R.A. Townsend (1993) is a species of calcified red seaweed found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans, as well as in the Mediterranean Sea. T. fragilis presence in the Mediterranean is likely the result of Lessepsian migration through the Suez Canal. In this region, it is typically found as small, isolated individuals inhabiting the infralittoral zone, attached to rocks, dead corals, and mollusk shells. Despite its presence, no in-depth studies of the species have been conducted in the Mediterranean Sea to date as it has never shown a significant role in benthic habitats. The objective of this study is to provide the first description of a newly observed habitat characterized by the density and persistence of T. fragilis large beds (~14700 m2) that have remained stable over time in specific areas within the Columbretes Islands Marine Reserve. To characterize this habitat we have described its depth range (24-38 m), area coverage (~100%), size of individuals (up to 20 cm), height of the algal coverage (10-20 cm) and associated community. Additionally, we have mapped the location of the meadows within the Marine Reserve. Next steps will focus on laboratory analysis of collected samples to determine the size and weight of T. fragilis specimens as well as to identify associated species of microorganisms aiming to delve deeper into its ecological importance, including its potential function as a recruitment site for other species. The presence of T.fragilis forming a fully calcareous habitat in the Columbretes Islands Marine Reserve shows a new and unique formation for this population. Furthermore, its location inside a marine protected area makes it an especially valuable habitat for future monitoring in a changing ocean.

Keywords: Calcareous Algae; Habitat; Mapping; Marine Reserve

 
 
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