Depth-dependent varation in soft-bottom fauna
Abstract
Depth is an important variable influencing soft-bottom-fauna communities. Lowest diversities were found at depths shallower than 40 m, probably due to stronger fluctuations in environmental factors. Maximum diversities were found at 65-115 m depth. The decline in diversity deeper than 100 m may be caused by different food supply and more homogenous silt/clay type of sediment, offering fewer niches. Great differences were found between different species. Most species showed a preference to either deep or shallow depths.