A baseline for prioritizing the conservation of the threatened seagrass Cymodocea nodosa in the oceanic archipelago of Madeira

Seagrasses are experiencing fragmentation and regression globally; thus, protection and recovery of meadows are a preservation priority. However, conservation actions must consider inherent regional conditions, since certain coastal areas are not suitable for the settlement of extensive meadows. Lik...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal for nature conservation 2022-08, Vol.68, p.126224, Article 126224
Main Authors: Ribeiro, Cláudia, Neves, Pedro, Kaufmann, Manfred, Araújo, Ricardo, Riera, Rodrigo
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Coastal ecosystem
Keystone species
Management
NE Atlantic Ocean
Seagrass
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Summary:Seagrasses are experiencing fragmentation and regression globally; thus, protection and recovery of meadows are a preservation priority. However, conservation actions must consider inherent regional conditions, since certain coastal areas are not suitable for the settlement of extensive meadows. Likewise, small oceanic archipelagos are not always able to fulfil the habitat requirements of seagrass habitats but can harbour small patches that in turn provide unique research opportunities. In this study, we focused on the seagrass Cymodocea nodosa in the archipelago of Madeira (NE Atlantic Ocean). Here we compile historical and contemporary records of this species along with characterization of associated communities (fish and invertebrates). A bionomic map with potentially suitable areas for the establishment and settlement of this species is also included. Lastly, we highlight coastal management and restoration actions and future research directions to preserve this species in Madeira Island.
ISSN:1617-1381
1618-1093
DOI:10.1016/j.jnc.2022.126224