Amphipod diversity and metabolomics of the Antarctic sponge <i>Dendrilla antarctica</i>

Abstract The western Antarctic Peninsula harbours a diverse benthic marine community where dense canopies of macroalgae can dominate the shallow subtidal zone (0–40 m or greater). In lower portion this range (below 25–35 depending on topography), invertebrates such as sponges and echinoderms be found in greater abundance due to reduced competition for space from algal species. Dendrilla antarctica (previously membranosa ) is common demosponge that thrives both communities known producing diterpene secondary metabolites defence against sympatric sea star amphipod predators. Omnivorous mesograzers amphipods inhabit communities; however, they are greatest within macroalgal canopy. Due differences between habitats, it was hypothesized specific species not susceptible defensive D. would take refuge predators chemically defended sponge. Analysis metabolome habitats correlations metabolic profile habitat. These studies serve inform our understanding complex ecosystem benthos stands dramatically altered by rapidly changing climate years come.