Ecological indicators based on fish biomass distribution along trophic levels: an application to the Terminos coastal lagoon, Mexico

• DOI: 10.1016/j.icesjms.2004.12.004
• Publication Date: 2005-02-11T04:36:33Z
• Authors: Atahualpa Sosa-López; David Mouillot; Thang Do Chi; Julia Ramos-Miranda
• Keywords: Trophic cascade; Omnivore

Abstract Cumulative relative biomass trophic level spectra (BTLS) are constructed for the fish community of a tropical coastal lagoon in Mexico to analyse spatio-temporal patterns as potential ecosystem indicator multifactor impacts. Data were based on monthly trawl surveys over single year carried out eighteen years apart. The show significant differences between two periods, indicating major shifts structure system. Specifically, omnivorous, estuarine species middle foodweb (originally dominating) has been replaced by carnivorous and herbivorous–detritivorous species. As consequence, initial sigmoid shape BTLS tended become more linear. However, interpretation causes involved remains unclear. It is suggested that this status reflects combination interacting driving forces acting simultaneously lagoon: (i) increased marine conditions well artificial reefs adjacent zones may enhance predators detritivorous species; (ii) attenuation influences lead decreasing generalist (iii) establishment protected area increase predator biomass, causing decline prey biomass.