Coral reef fish association with macroalgal beds on a tropical reef system in North-eastern Brazil
L. T. C. Chaves A C , P. H. C. Pereira A B and J. L. L. Feitosa A
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Departamento de Oceanografia, CTG, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Arquitetura, s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50670-901, Brazil.
B School of Marine and Tropical Biology, James Cook University (JCU), Townsville, Qld 4811, Australia.
C Corresponding author. Email: lctchaves@gmail.com
Marine and Freshwater Research 64(12) 1101-1111 https://doi.org/10.1071/MF13054
Submitted: 18 July 2012 Accepted: 11 May 2013 Published: 16 August 2013
Abstract
Macroalgal beds are recognised for their role as nursery and feeding grounds for several marine species. This study was conducted in the Tamandaré reef complex within the limits of the Costa dos Corais Marine Protected Area (MPA), North-eastern Brazil. The macroalgal bed studied is subjected to several disturbances, especially from tourism. The reef fish were assessed with free dives during the day and night using visual censuses within transects (20 × 2 m) and random swims. The percentage algal cover was estimated using quadrats (40 cm2). The behavioural traits of the fish also provided an understanding of their habitat use. In total, 68 fish species were recorded. The most abundant species were representatives of the families Labridae, Pomacentridae, Acanthuridae and Haemulidae. Sargassum polyceratium, Dictyopteris delicatula and Canistrocarpus cervicornis were the most abundant macroalgae. Because the most abundant fish trophic guild included primarily mobile invertebrate feeders (41.8%) and carnivores (28.4%), it is suggested that the high-canopy macroalgae harbour epiphytic invertebrates, which these fish use for food. Thereby, the study area would act as important nursery and feeding grounds. Tourism activity (e.g. laying chairs, trampling and anchoring) may disrupt fish behaviour and life- history traits and result in damage that would require mitigation through environmental awareness and law enforcement in the most affected areas.
Additional keywords: associated macrofauna, macroalgal beds, nursery areas, shelter.
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