Trophic Structure and Isotopic Niche of Invaded Benthic Communities on Tropical Rocky Shores
Author Information
Author(s): Pires-Teixeira Larissa M., Neres-Lima Vinicius, Barbosa Plínio C., Creed Joel C.
Primary Institution: Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro
Hypothesis
How do trophic relationships vary along rocky shores invaded by Tubastraea tagusensis and Tubastraea coccinea?
Conclusion
Invaded communities have a lower degree of trophic diversity, with species characterized by similar trophic ecologies.
Supporting Evidence
- Isotopic analysis showed that Tubastraea spp. occupy a similar trophic niche to native suspension feeders.
- Invaded communities exhibited lower trophic diversity compared to uninvaded areas.
- Stable isotope metrics indicated significant differences between invaded and uninvaded communities.
Takeaway
When invasive corals move into new areas, they can take over food resources and compete with local species, which can change the whole community.
Methodology
Isotopic values of δ13C and δ15N were used to investigate trophic relationships in rocky shore communities.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to limited sampling of predators and environmental variability.
Limitations
The study was limited to three locations and may not represent all invaded communities.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on benthic marine communities in tropical rocky shores of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website