Do artificial vs natural substrates cause a difference in assemblages of peracarids? A case study in the Western Mediterranean basin

The aim of this investigation was to assess the differences in terms α-diversity, species composition and trophic structure between peracarid assemblages inhabiting artificial hard substrates those present on natural ones at two sites Western Mediterranean Sea. In each one, samples were collected from substrates, extracted peracarids identified level. Each sample characterised by its Total Abundance, Species Richness, 1-D Simpson, Shannon, Margalef Equitability indices. A cluster plot based Bray-Curtis coefficient conducted detect presence distinct assemblages. addition, proportion individuals belonging feeding guild studied. ecological indices revealed that Villaricos site showed lower values diversity, while they more diverse Calpe site. These results indicated not always inadequate ground for these animals. differed studied also modified, although, case, changes similar both sites. However, difference respects seems be higher than evidencing importance local scale processes.