Abstract

SANVICENTE-ANORVE, Laura; RUBIO-SANDOVAL, Karla; LEMUS-SANTANA, Elia  and  ALATORRE-MENDIETA, Miguel. Species richness of holoplanktonic mollusks from Mahahual, Mexican Caribbean Biosphere Reserve. Rev. Mex. Biodiv. [online]. 2021, vol.92, e923427.  Epub Nov 29, 2021. ISSN 2007-8706.  https://doi.org/10.22201/ib.20078706e.2021.92.3427.

In this study we analyzed the holoplanktonic mollusk fauna in neritic waters of Mahahual, Mexican Caribbean Biosphere Reserve, to test the hypothesis that faunae are distributed homogenously across the internal and external zones due to a narrow continental shelf. Zooplankton sampling was carried out with 2 conical nets of 333 and 505 µm mesh size over 33 sampling stations. In the laboratory, zooplankton biomass was estimated as wet weight and the holoplanktonic mollusks were separated from samples and identified. The biomass values recorded (0.02 to 7.51 g 100 m-3) are typical of the oligotrophic waters of the Caribbean. Eight species of mollusks were identified, which in decreasing order of abundance are: Creseis acicula, Heliconoides inflatus, Atlanta lesueurii, Diacavolinia longirostris, Limacina trochiformis, Limacina lesueurii, Firoloida desmarestia, and Limacina bulimoides. Results of the Anosim statistical test showed that there were no differences in the fauna distribution between the internal and external shelf probably due to the strong influence of oceanic waters over the neritic environment. The information provided here is of great importance to the consideration of pelagic biota in future conservation plans for the reserve.

Keywords : Pelagic mollusks; Zooplankton biomass; Natural protected area; Western Caribbean.

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