Meroplankton distribution in South Pacific islands, implications for larval connectivity
Meerhoff, E.; Ramos, M.; Yannicelli, B.; Bravo, L.; Zambra, D. (2018). Meroplankton distribution in South Pacific islands, implications for larval connectivity. J. Plankton Res. 40(1): 77-90. https://dx.doi.org/10.1093/plankt/fbx053
In: Journal of Plankton Research. Oxford University Press: New York,. ISSN 0142-7873; e-ISSN 1464-3774, meer
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| Author keywords |
islands; ichthyoplankton; decapod larvae; endemic species; sub-mesoscalestructures |
| Auteurs | | Top |
- Meerhoff, E.
- Ramos, M.
- Yannicelli, B.
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| Abstract |
The knowledge on the mechanisms of population connectivity through larval stages and its implications across time and spatial scales is crucial to assess possible biological outcomes of marine protected areas (MPA) network designs. We re-analyzed available data on meroplankton distribution in the Rapa Nui ecoregion around Easter Island (27° S, 109°22′ W) and Salas y Gómez Island (26°28′S, 105°21′W) together with in situ and satellite physical and biological information to evaluate its implications for mechanisms of populations connectivity. The geostrophic flow near the coast of Easter Island included vertical and horizontal shears which, combined with vertical migration behavior of the larvae, would promote larval retention. Larval duration in the plankton and a possible effect of connection through seamounts between islands could cause the distribution pattern of ichthyoplankton endemic species between both islands. Finally, we studied the role of sub-mesoscale structures (<10 km) in the distribution of chlorophyll and meroplankton using the finite size Lyapunov exponent (FSLE). Lagrangian coherent structures which are identified as ridges of FSLE were related to higher in situ depth integrated chlorophyll, higher insular and oceanic ichthyoplankton abundances, and explained differences in the ichthyoplankton community structure around Salas y Gómez island. |
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