The molluscan assemblages inhabiting the leaves and rhizomes of a deep water Posidonia oceanica settlement in the central Tyrrhenian Sea

• DOI: 10.3989/scimar.03396.02c
• Publication Date: 2012-08-30T12:17:32Z
• Authors: Paolo G. Albano; Bruno Sabelli
• Keywords: Posidonia oceanica; Settlement (finance)

The molluscan assemblages inhabiting the leaf and rhizome layers of Posidonia oceanica were studied in a deep water (–24/26 m) settlement highly heterogeneous substratum on an off-shore reef central Tyrrhenian Sea. This is one few works dealing with layer that has settled hard substrata. assemblage only had species, less than other at comparable depth same basin. poorness may be due to depth, but it also high fragmentation meadow. However, percentage carnivores consistent previous observations meadows. diverse both terms species feeding guilds, which could explained by higher affinity for low light conditions most molluscs greater habitat heterogeneity. marked differences two taxocoenoses diversification evidence they should included studies potential diversity Failure consider this seriously affects any evaluation biodiversity habitat, great conservation interest.