The predation gauntlet: early post-settlement mortality in reef fishes

摘要: Most marine fishes have pelagic larvae that settle to benthic juvenile/adult habitats. Ecologists argued mortality rates are particularly high during the settlement transition, but relevant data been sparse. Recently, researchers used several novel techniques estimate magnitude of predation transition. We meta-analysis determine for 24 taxonomically diverse species in geographically widespread locations, an estimated 55.7% (CI: 43.0–65.5%) juveniles were consumed within 1–2 days settlement. Such highlights this brief period as a key phase life history and supports view these communities strongly influenced by predation. Additionally, we argue because predators such strong effects on juvenile survival, population community dynamics reef may be linked human exploitation predators.