Benthic communities

Kelp forest, eelgrass beds, coral reefs and sponge gardens are examples of important benthic communities, be it because of their structure (e.g. species diversity) or function (e.g. nursery habitats). Fishing, trawling, coastal development, and discharges are examples of human activities with adverse effects on the benthic communities, populations and ecological interactions. Mareano, habitat mapping and distribution modelling, effects of kelp harvesting, and coastal zone research are the main research activities.

Areas of scientific responsibility

• Mapping and monitoring benthic communities in the deep and the coastal zone
• The biology and ecology of benthic communities
• Spatial ecology and habitat modelling
• Effects of human activities on the benthos, species diversity, and vulnerable biotopes
• Habitat restoration and conservation biology
• Advisory service for planners and management

Resources

Keywords