Abstract

OLASCOAGA-VALVERDE, David; NISPERUZA-PEREZ, Carlos A.; YEPES-ESCOBAR, Juan  and  QUIROS-RODRIGUEZ, Jorge A.. Diversity, population density and spatial distribution of regular echinoids (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) in Isla Fuerte, Colombia. rev.udcaactual.divulg.cient. [online]. 2023, vol.26, n.2, e2254.  Epub Nov 21, 2023. ISSN 0123-4226.  https://doi.org/10.31910/rudca.v26.n2.2023.2254.

The echinoids constitute one of the most influential groups in reef and rocky coastal ecosystems due to their significance in trophic networks and organic matter recycling. In the Colombian Caribbean, there is a lack of information regarding the ecology of these organisms. Most studies have primarily focused on conducting inventories and taxonomic notes. To study the diversity, population density, and spatial distribution of regular echinoids in Isla Fuerte, Colombia. Seven field trips were conducted at Punta El Inglés, Latal, and San Diego between November 2018 and September 2019. Visual censuses were conducted in each locality using the linear belt transect methodology (10 x 2 m). 4,061 individuals were recorded, representing six species, five genera, and four families. The species with the highest densities was Echinometra lucunter, while the lowest was Lytechinus variegatus. Species richness was the same for all three localities; however, Punta El Inglés exhibited higher diversity, uniformity, and average taxonomic distinctness. The Bray-Curtis similarity analysis indicates an association between San Diego and El Latal, whereas Punta El Inglés forms an independent grouping. The results of this research represent a baseline for Isla Fuerte and can assist environmental managers in developing tools and management strategies for this group of invertebrates.

Keywords : Caribbean Sea; Echinoderm; Geographical distribution; Population ecology; Sea urchins.

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