Recent warming causes functional borealization and diversity loss in deep fish communities east of Greenland

• DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13604
• Publication Date: 2022-07-14T05:35:09Z
• Authors: Margrete Emblemsvåg; Laurene Pecuchet; Liv Guri Velle; Adriana Nogueira; Raul Primicerio
• Keywords: Demersal fish; Dominance (genetics)

Abstract Aim We assessed temporal trends in functional diversity of the deep‐sea demersal fish communities East Greenland to characterize ecological responses rising sea temperatures. Location The study region encompasses a shelf and slope area located offshore between 63°N 66°N, east Greenland. Methods A unique dataset abundance covering depth range 1500 m over 18 years was combined with trait which included mix quantitative categorial traits that characterized species' morphology, feeding strategy, habitat, life history. analysed species by matrix using principal component analysis (PCA). To investigate patterns across (sites), community weighted mean (CWM) were calculated PCA. Further, specific indices calculated. Results found signs taxonomic borealization, associated loss diversity, down 1000 m, an increase mobile generalists decrease bottom dwelling benthivores. Main conclusions increased dominance boreal not sufficient compensate for Arctic leading declining diversity. may negatively affect ecosystem robustness environmental change. These are most likely this call more attention considerations climate change management strategies deep‐sea.