Title: A COMPREHENSIVE INVESTIGATION OF MESOPHOTIC CORAL ECOSYSTEMS IN THE HAWAIIAN ARCHIPELAGO

Abstract: During an interdisciplinary effort spanning more than two decades, we characterized the most expansive MCEs ever recorded, with vast macroalgal communities and areas of 100% coral-cover between depths of 50-90 m extending for tens of km^2 in the Hawaiian Archipelago. We used a variety of sensors and data gathering techniques to establish geophysical, biodiversity patterns, population dynamics, and trophic dynamics of algae, corals, fishes and invertebrates in reef-associated habitats down to 150 m. MCEs are associated with clear water and suitable substrate. In comparison to shallow reefs in the Hawaiian Archipelago, inhabitants of MCEs have lower total diversity, harbor new and unique species, and have higher rates of endemism in fishes. Fish species present in shallow and MCE depths have similar population and trophic (except benthic invertivores) structures and high genetic connectivity with lower fecundity at MCE depths. MCEs in Hawai'i are widespread but associated with particular geophysical characteristics. High genetic, ecological and trophic connectivity establish the potential for MCEs to serve as refugia for some species, but our results question the premise that MCEs are more resilient than shallow reefs. We found that endemism within MCEs increases with depth, and our results do not support suggestions of a global faunal break at 60 m. Our findings enhance the scientific foundations for conservation and management of MCEs, and provide a template for future interdisciplinary research on MCEs worldwide.

Authors: Longenecker K, Boland R, Bolick H, Bowen B, Bradley C, Kane C, Kosaki R, Langston R, Montgomery A, Parish F, Pyle R, Rooney J, Smith C, Spalding H, Wagner D

Presentation: Oral

Session: 29

Date: 06/21/16

Time: 14:15

Location: 308 A/B

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