Spatial and temporal variability in subtidal macroinvertebrates diversity patterns in a management and exploitation area for benthic resources (MEABRs)

• Published in: Ocean & coastal management 2014-06, Vol.93, p.121-128
• Main Authors: Molina, Pilar, Ojeda, F. Patricio, Aldana, Marcela, Pulgar, V.M., Roberto García-Huidobro, M., Pulgar, José
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Earth sciences; Earth, ocean, space; Exact sciences and technology; Geomorphology, landform evolution; Marine and continental quaternary; Surficial geology
• ISSN: 0964-5691; 1873-524X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2014.03.005

Diversity and biological variability are key attributes to maintain a viable life system in the marine benthic zone and this balance is heavily affected by human activities. In Chile, Management and Exploitation Areas for Benthic Resources (MEABRs) are coastal areas administrated by local fishermen, which regulate the extraction of species of commercial of commercial importance (e.g. Concholepas concholepas, Fissurella spp. Loxechinus albus), key components of food webs. Both spatial and temporal impacts these species have on the structure and dynamics of the subtidal community are poorly understood. In one of the oldest MEABRs of Chile we evaluated spatial and temporal effects of controlled extraction of commercial species on subtidal macro invertebrate's diversity. Our results indicate that in a spatial scale MEABRs showed increased species richness, and important temporal changes in diversity and species composition from bivalves, ascidians and gastropods to cnidarians, sponges and bryozoans. We discuss possible mechanisms associated with the combined effects of fishery management and predation by key species on temporal composition variation in the subtidal macro invertebrate assemblage in this regulated area. •MEABRs regulate commercial extraction, the oldest MEABRs in Chile was studied.•Changes in habitat composition between MEABRs vs open access areas were examined.•On a temporal scale, MEABRs installation decreased diversity.•Increased species richness without changes in composition was also observed.•Impacts of fishery management and predation on community structure are reported.