Positive species interactions structure rhodolith bed communities at a global scale.

Area of Science:

• Marine Ecology
• Benthic Ecology
• Habitat Engineering

Background:

• Rhodolith beds are globally distributed, biodiverse marine habitats.
• The role of rhodoliths in structuring associated species communities via positive interactions is under-recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence for rhodoliths functioning as foundation species.
• To explore their role in multi-level facilitation cascades within coastal oceans.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing existing research on rhodoliths and associated communities.
• Analysis of the mechanisms by which rhodoliths facilitate other species.

Main Results:

• Rhodoliths act as foundation species, initiating facilitation cascades by buffering stress, reducing predation, and enhancing resources.
• Their varied morphology supports diverse habitat-forming species, offering microhabitats and food resources.
• Mobile rhodoliths can redistribute associated species, potentially expanding their ranges.

Conclusions:

• Rhodoliths are fundamental to hierarchically structured coastal communities.
• Further research is needed on their role as basal facilitators, cascade stability, and climate refugia potential.
• Recognizing rhodoliths' ecological importance is vital for marine conservation policy.