Marine animal forests in temperate mesophotic ecosystems of Central Chile

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Abstract
Marine animal forests (MAFs) play a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem functionality in marine environments. However, MAFs are poorly known in some ecosystems. This study focuses on one of the least known ecosystems, temperate mesophotic ecosystems (TMEs), by characterizing and quantifying branching invertebrates, particularly corals and sponges, that form MAFs in Central Chile. Utilizing towed underwater video surveys, we identified and quantified three key taxa, the octocorals Leptogorgia chilensis and Plexauridae, and the sponges Axinella spp., across various depths and locations along the central Chilean coast. In addition, we report the presence of black corals (Antipatharia) in the study area. Our findings expand the known geographical and bathymetric ranges of these taxa, thereby contributing to the limited understanding of habitat-forming species in TMEs within this region. Considering the ecological value of MAFs, this study emphasizes the critical need to advance in understanding their role in hosting biodiversity and fostering ecological interactions, particularly in less-studied ecosystems, and provides a foundation for effective management and conservation initiatives.

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