Sea Urchins Predation Facilitates Coral Invasion in a Marine Reserve

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022017
• Publication Date: 2011-07-18T20:53:47Z
• Authors: Rafel Coma; Eduard Serrano; Cristina Linares; Marta Ribes; David Díaz; Enric Ballesteros
• Keywords: Marine reserve; Anthozoa; Paracentrotus lividus; Trophic cascade; Coralline algae

Macroalgae is the dominant trophic group on Mediterranean infralittoral rocky bottoms, whereas zooxanthellate corals are extremely rare. However, in recent years, invasive coral Oculina patagonica appears to be increasing its abundance through unknown means. Here we examine pattern of variation this species at a marine reserve between 2002 and 2010 contribute understanding mechanisms that allow current increase. Because indirect interactions can play relevant role establishment species, parallel assessment sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus, main herbivorous invertebrate habitat thus key was conducted. O. has shown 3-fold increase over last 8 years become most abundant shallow waters reserve, matching some erect macroalgae abundance. High recruitment played an important The results from study provide compelling evidence may one drivers observed Sea urchins overgraze create barren patches space-limited macroalgal community subsequently facilitate recruitment. This indicates contributed success because grazing activity indirectly facilitated expansion coral. Current ended monopolization algae assemblages, event could greatly modify both underwater seascape sources primary production ecosystem.