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When thermal shifts reshape function in intertidal seaweeds communities
Marta Martins1, Francisco Arenas2, Martin Lindegren3
1CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Avenida General Norton de Matos, S/N, Matosinhos, 4450-208, Portugal; Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 1021/1055, Porto, 4169-007, Portugal.
Marine Environmental Research
|August 14, 2026
Summary
Marine macroalgae communities are shifting functionally despite stable temperatures. Key species like Laminaria ochroleuca are vulnerable, highlighting the need for conservation to maintain ecosystem resilience.
Area of Science:
- Marine ecology
- Climate change impacts
- Algal community dynamics
Background:
- Marine ecosystems face global climate-driven changes.
- Functional consequences for intertidal macroalgae are not well understood.
- Long-term data is crucial for tracking community shifts.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate temporal trends in thermal affinity and functional traits of low intertidal macroalgae.
- Assess community turnover and the role of foundation species.
- Understand the impact of climate change on macroalgal community structure and function.
Main Methods:
- Long-term monitoring (2006-2008, 2021-2024) of macroalgae assemblages on the Portuguese coast.
- Analysis of Community Temperature Index (CTI) and functional traits (pigmentation, morphology, reproduction, complexity).
- Evaluation of functional redundancy, originality, and the impact of invasive species.
Main Results:
- Community Temperature Index (CTI) remained stable, but significant community turnover occurred.
- Shifts were driven by changes in cold-affinity species (deborealization/borealization).
- Pronounced temporal shifts in functional traits and functional space restructuring were observed, including invasive species presence.
Conclusions:
- Intertidal macroalgae communities are functionally reorganizing despite apparent thermal stability.
- Foundation species like Laminaria ochroleuca are critical but potentially vulnerable.
- Conservation of functionally original, habitat-forming species is essential for ecosystem resilience.
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