Diversity, structure and spatial distribution of megabenthic communities in Cap de Creus continental shelf and submarine canyon (NW Mediterranean)

The continental shelf and submarine canyon off Cap de Creus (NW Mediterranean) were declared a Site of Community Importance (SCI) within the Natura 2000 Network in 2014. Implementing an effective management plan to preserve its biological diversity monitor evolution through time requires detailed characterization benthic ecosystem. Based on 60 underwater video transects performed between 2007 2013 (before declaration SCI), we thoroughly describe composition structure main megabenthic communities dwelling from down 400 m depth inside canyon. We then mapped spatial distribution using Random Forest algorithm, which incorporated geomorphological oceanographic layers as predictors, well intensity bottom-trawling fishing fleet. Although study area has historically been exposed commercial practices, it still holds rich ecosystem with over 165 different invertebrate (morpho)species megafauna identified footage, form up 9 distinct communities. is home coral gardens sea fan Eunicella cavolini, pen soft assemblages, dense beds crinoid Leptometra phalangium, diverse sponge grounds massive aggregations brittle star Ophiothrix fragilis. characterized by cold-water community dominated scleractinian Madrepora oculata, found association several species including oysters, brachiopods variety species, cerianthids urchins, mostly sedimentary areas. compared habitats/biocenoses described reference habitat classification systems that consider circalittoral bathyal environments Mediterranean. complex environmental setting characteristic marine likely produces optimal conditions for suspension- filter-feeding develop. uniqueness this anthropogenic pressures faces should prompt development actions ensure long-term conservation fauna representative area.