Recent progress in our understanding of the distribution of black corals (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Antipatharia) in the Northwest Atlantic

Le résumé fourni par la source

Black corals (order Antipatharia) are important habitat-forming species in deep-sea ecosystems. This study compiles and maps the distribution of black corals across the Northwest Atlantic. Up to 10 species were recorded, with the majority occurring in deep waters greater than 1,500 m. The primary data source was multispecies stock assessment trawl surveys, supplemented by Remotely Operated Vehicle observations and records from other institutions and databases. The results highlight the concentration of black coral diversity and occurrence in deeper slope and canyon habitats. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the spatial distribution of Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs) in the region and support conservation and fisheries managment efforts.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.