Deep-Sea Echinoid Trails and Seafloor Nutrient Distribution: Present and Past Implications

The movement patterns of deep-sea bioturbational fauna are believed to be the result organism’s interactive response perceived spatial distribution nutritional resources on seafloor. To address this hypothesis, we examined paths Echinocrepis rostrata -a common epibenthic bioturbator echinoid in northeast Pacific Ocean- through fractal analysis order characterize how they cover seafloor during foraging. We used an 18-yr time series photographic record from 4100-m depth at abyssal site eastern North (Sta. M; 34°50′N, 123°00′W; 4100 m depth). showed low values (1.09 1.39). No positive correlation between particulate organic carbon (POC) flux measured sediment traps 600 and 50 above bottom dimension (FD) was observed. echinoids characterized by high-speed periods, followed slower speed periods higher turning rates. These slow-speed were correlated with sinuosity values, slightly wider angles, numerous cross-cuts. Based visual estimation phytodetritus coverage, hypothesize that its small-scale may primary determinant feeding rather than bulk amount nutrients. Finally, finding reveals new insights into morphological studies trace fossils, indicating trails past makers could help evaluate nutrient availability/distribution ancient decipher climate-induced changes.