Paramuricea clavata (Anthozoa, Octocorallia) loss in the Marine Protected Area of Tavolara (Sardinia, Italy) due to a mass mortality event

摘要: Recent studies highlight an increase in the frequency and intensity of marine mass mortalities several species over past 30‐40 years, mainly tropical temperate areas. In Mediterranean Sea these episodes particularly affect benthic suspension feeders, such as sponges cnidarians. The main objective this work was to document loss one seascapes, Paramuricea clavata forests at Marine Protected Area Tavolara Punta Coda Cavallo, Sardinia (Italy), during summer 2008. Data regarding colony height, density, level damage, microbiological community were collected two sites. Such parameters help us understand how mortality mechanisms act on ecosystem engineer. We identified a change size class distribution following that leaves small colonies with decrease habitat complexity. Several tests water chemistry demonstrate event not caused by local contamination. Moreover, potential pathogenic agents suggest bacteria belonging genus Vibrio are present opportunistic etiological cause P. events. Possible restoration approaches discussed.