The swash zone selects functionally specialized assemblages of beach interstitial meiofauna (Platyhelminthes, Proseriata)

• DOI: 10.1111/ecog.07179
• Publication Date: 2024-10-30T14:51:46Z
• Authors: Alejandro Martínez; Diego Fontaneto; Marco Curini‐Gall...
• Keywords: Meiobenthos; Swash; Turbellaria; Flatworm

Life is not a beach for those animals that survive in the rough ecological conditions found marine sandy beaches – and yet, microscopic thrive on them. We explore drivers meiofaunal diversity by analysing taxonomic functional patterns of 348 flatworm communities across 116 reflective western Mediterranean, totalling 152 species (61.2% new to science). First, we confirm richness does differ between hydrodynamic levels (swash, shoaling surf) but rather depends characteristics each beach. Second, demonstrate composition traits, addition geographical abiotic factors. Third, highlight space has lower than expected redundancy wave‐exposed swash level compared subtidal levels, suggesting trait‐based filtering. Finally, show differences depend higher frequency hydrodynamics‐related traits level. Our results suggest favour unique combination which might be linked speciation flatworms also other interstitial animals.