Differences in magnitude and spatial extent of impact of tuna farming on benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages

摘要: Abstract Differences in magnitude and spatial extent of impact three tuna farms located Malta on polychaete amphipod assemblages associated with soft sediment habitat were assessed using a hierarchical design that incorporated different scales, from tens metres to few kilometres. Spatial variation was significant at the scale location, which farm size local environmental factors differed. The higher larger farm, as indicated by elevated levels fish bone content, significantly lower number families, ‘Poor’ ecological quality status recorded for seabed area occupied cages. influence farming activities benthic macroinvertebrate extended up c. 1 km away cages, possibly due transportation particulate organic waste there via sea currents.