Aspects of Benthic Decapod Diversity and Distribution from Rocky Nearshore Habitat at Geographically Widely Dispersed Sites

摘要: Relationships of diversity, distribution and abundance benthic decapods in intertidal shallow subtidal waters to 10 m depth are explored based on data obtained using a standardized protocol globally-distributed samples. Results indicate that decapod species richness overall is low within the nearshore, typically ranging from one six taxa per site (mean = 4.5). Regionally Gulf Alaska crustacean community structure was distinguishable by depth, multivariate analysis indicating increasing change with where assemblages high mid tide, tide 1 m, 5 strata formed three distinct groups. Univariate showed zone subtidally, preferences among 23 species. A similar trend but peak at observed when all global were combined. Analysis latitudinal trends, confined limitations, equivocal scale. While significant differences existed ecoregions, semi-linear changing Arctic lower latitudes did not hold including tropical results. Among boreal regions Canadian Atlantic relatively poor compared Alaska, whereas Caribbean Sea Japan appeared be hot spots. poor, samples most diverse higher infraordinal level. Linking 11 environmental variables available for sites best fit family-based biotic pattern relationship, single explanatory variable being level organic pollution combination primary productivity. limitations restrict conclusions context, results seen as first-cut contribution useful generating discussion more in-depth work still poorly understood field biodiversity distribution.