作者: Tim M. Glasby , Peter T. Gibson
DOI: 10.1016/J.MARENVRES.2019.104869
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摘要: Abstract Rocky reef barrens that are devoid of macroalgae can be created by various mechanisms, and often maintained in the long-term grazing urchins. The persistence varies greatly among locations, although few studies have investigated stability this habitat over multiple decades, particularly at large spatial scales. We used aerial images to test for differences temporal trajectories shallow (2–10 m) 21 sites (average size 12 ha) 30 years across 500 km coastline New South Wales, Australia. Longer-term (40–68 yr) cover were documented five these generally reflected 30-year patterns. Averaged all sites, area increased a rate 19.9 ± 8.4 m2 per year hectare from 1980s–2010s. Importantly, however, 55% had stable or fluctuating (±10% cover) period, rather than displaying continual increases. Although extent increases with latitude, dynamics did not differ three latitudinal regions where most extensive. Associations between variability environmental variables indicated topography might pay role influencing barrens. Examples such extensive relatively rare potential reasons possible future changes discussed.