Biological structures as a source of habitat heterogeneity and biodiversity on the deep ocean margins

Abstract Biological structures exert a major influence on species diversity at both local and regional scales on deep continental margins. Some organisms use other species as substrates for attachment, shelter, feeding or parasitism, but there may also be mutual benefits from the association. Here, we highlight the structural attributes and biotic effects of the habitats that corals, sea pens, sponges and xenophyophores offer other organisms. The environmental setting of the biological structures influences their species composition. The importance of benthic species as substrates seems to increase with depth as the complexity of the surrounding geological substrate and food supply decline. There are marked…

• SR
  Sight Research UK

  Awards: noc010009, NE/C51297X/1, NE/C512996/1, NE/C51300X/1, NE/C512961/1, NE/C512988/1
• TF
  Total Foundation
• NE
  Natural Environment Research Council

  Awards: NE/C512996/1, NE/C512988/1, NE/C51300X/1, noc010009, NE/C51297X/1, NE/C512961/1