![]() ![]() 2000), and creating species or habitat prediction and modeling tools (Porskamp et al. 2004), investigating the relationship between biological species/communities and environmental parameters across various spatial scales (Lecours et al. The ecological objectives of habitat mapping are wide ranging and include characterizing baseline conditions (Smith et al. The field of benthic habitat mapping is well recognized, and extensive overviews of various approaches, methodologies, and technologies can be found in Brown et al. This study also highlights the value and management applications of benthic mapping specific to FIIS and more broadly and advocates for similar studies elsewhere.īenthic habitat maps aim to describe and understand the relationships biological assemblages occupying the seafloor have with their associated environment. This study advances the utility of the Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard (CMECS) by including CMECS-defined data in analyses and expanding the definition of “dominance.” CMECS played a key role in developing map units, interpreting biotopes, and establishing statistically significant and ecologically meaningful biotic–abiotic relationships. The inlet is also likely responsible for seagrass expansion near the inlet but decline in other areas. edulis was last common when the inlet was previously open (early 1800s). Dense concentrations of mature blue mussels ( Mytilus edulis) documented near the inlet are considered ecologically beneficial and represent a post-Sandy distinction in ecosystem structure M. While there are limited pre-Sandy data for comparison, findings from this study suggest the inlet has been a positive ecological influence on the nearby area. Additionally, biotopes were prioritized by “ecological value” based on user-defined criteria (presence of seagrass and potential for higher trophic level interactions) to guide management. Biotope (habitat) maps were developed describing relationships between macrofaunal communities and their environment. This study focuses on benthic mapping within the bayside of FIIS using acoustic, grab sample, and imagery data. This event presented a unique opportunity to establish new ecological baselines, assess resulting ecological change, and explore management implications. In 2012, Hurricane Sandy created a new tidal inlet at Fire Island National Seashore (FIIS) in New York, USA, consequently altering environmental conditions within Great South Bay. ![]()
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