Sediment grain size and benthic community structure in the eastern English Channel: Species-dependent responses and environmental influence

This study addresses the scarcity of evidence on the relationship between benthic communities and coarse-grained sediments in the eastern English Channel. The region's geological history contributes to its predominantly coarse sediment composition. The study employs ternary plots to visualize benthic species' preferences and tolerance for sediment types, revealing their effectiveness. Redundancy Analyses (RDA) and species-level quantile regressions explore the influence of grain size on benthic species distribution. The results indicate a moderate impact of grain size, influenced by hydrodynamics. Estuaries, particularly the Seine Estuary, significantly shape benthic species distribution. Quantile regressions underscore the varied responses of benthic communities along the grain size gradient. The study underscores the importance of considering coarse sediments, offering insights into the complex relationship between benthic communities and sediment characteristics.

Keyword(s)

Coarse sediments, Species distribution, Sediment type, Grain size analysis, Marine aggregate extraction, Offshore wind farms

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1710 Mo
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463 Mo
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Chauvel Nathan, Raoux Aurore, Weill Pierre, Dezilleau Laurent, Méar Yann, Murat Anne, Poizot Emmanuel, Foveau Aurélie, Desroy Nicolas, Thiébaut Éric, Dauvin Jean-Claude, Pezy Jean-Philippe (2024). Sediment grain size and benthic community structure in the eastern English Channel: Species-dependent responses and environmental influence. Marine Pollution Bulletin. 200. 116042 (17p.). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116042, https://archimer.ifremer.fr/doc/00872/98410/

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