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Published on: January 13, 2023
Functional diversity and spatial distribution of zooplankton communities on the Maranhão continental shelf, Brazilian
Yago Bruno Silveira Nunes1, Marco Valério Jansen Cutrim2, Xiomara Franchesca Garcia Dias3
1Aquaculture and Tropical Aquatic Resources - Federal Rural University of Amazon (UFRA), CEP 66.077-530, Belém, PA, Brazil; Phycology Laboratory - Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), CEP 65080-805, São Luís, MA, Brazil; Oceanography - Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), CEP 50740-550, Recife, PE, Brazil.
Abstract:
The Maranhão Continental Shelf (MCS), located in the Brazilian equatorial Atlantic, is a dynamic ecosystem characterized by unique environmental gradients and anthropogenic influences. This study investigated the functional diversity and spatial distribution of zooplankton communities, with an emphasis on copepods, which are fundamental components in the transfer of energy between trophic levels. Sampling was conducted across three estuarine zones within the São Marcos Estuarine Complex (SMEC)- Cumã Bay, São Marcos Bay, and São José Bay, allowing for a comprehensive spatial assessment. A total of 98 taxa were identified, with the highest density and biomass recorded in São Marcos, reflecting its relevance as a biodiversity hotspot. Functional diversity analyses revealed significant differences between the transects, with greater functional richness in São Marcos and lower functional richness in São José, highlighting their ecological vulnerability. Predominant functional strategies, such as omnivorous, diurnal vertical migration and broadcast reproduction, have been identified in response to local environmental conditions. Beta diversity indicates species substitution between zones, reinforcing the influence of environmental heterogeneity. This work provides fundamental insights for sustainable management and conservation of MCSs, highlighting the importance of functional trait-based approaches for understanding the resilience of tropical coastal ecosystems.
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