Macro-benthic invertebrate assemblages in the Betty’s Bay Marine Protected Area (Kogelberg region South Africa)

摘要: Abstract The Betty’s Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA) was established to protect endangered species like the African penguin (Spheniscus demersus), abalone (Haliotis midae) and west coast rock lobster (Jasus lalandii). Very little is known about effects their protection has had on other assemblages within MPA. To this end, a photo-quadratic survey of macro-benthic invertebrates conducted provide more information these communities. two depth zones at 10 sites, seven inside three outside Representative samples were collected assist in identification organisms. Eight hundred eighty one photo-quadrats analysed determine percentage cover, diversity community structure invertebrate assemblages. A mean evenness 0.88 recorded for entire study area total 250 documented. Location (inside or MPA) significant effect richness ( F 1 , 637 . 4 = 32 p 0 001 ) 5 47 24 18 ), while cover 761 9 05 structure. Colonial taxa such as Porifera, Cnidaria algae dominant, semi-motile Mollusca relatively low abundance.