Spatial and temporal patterns in the distribution of fishes
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| Keywords |
Ecological niches
Environmental factors
Geography > Biogeography
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| Author keywords |
Fish distribution; Spatial and temporal patterns; Ontogenetic shifts |
| Authors | | Top |
- França, S.
- Martinho, F.
- Almada, F.
- Cabral, H.
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| Abstract |
The present chapter provides an in-depth exploration of key concepts essential to the understanding of the spatial and temporal patterns in the distribution of marine fish species. Biogeography, as the study of these distributions, maps the geographical range of species, while elucidating underlying ecological and evolutionary processes shaping these patterns, which are crucial for understanding species diversity throughout marine ecosystems. Existing global systems categorize marine realms based on species composition influenced by evolutionary history, oceanographic drivers, and environmental gradients, facilitating comprehensive assessments of biodiversity. The main drivers for species occurrence and distribution will contribute to the creation of these realms. Environmental variables, such as temperature, depth, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and substrate types, operating at various scales, exert significant controls on habitat suitability and species distributions. Ecological niche theory provides a conceptual framework for elucidating how species interact with their environment. It comprises the multidimensional space occupied by species, defining their physiological tolerances, resource requirements, and interactions within ecosystems. Habitat selection diversity among fish species promotes niche differentiation mitigating competition and enhancing ecosystem resilience. This interplay between habitat colonization and selection dynamics shapes community structure and supports adaptive responses to environmental changes, conditioning fish species distributions. Spatial and temporal patterns of fish distribution may also be influenced by ontogenetic shifts involving changes in habitat use and spatial patterns across different life stages. From planktonic larval stages using ocean currents for dispersal to juveniles seeking sheltered nursery habitats, ontogenetic movements are critical for population connectivity and persistence. |
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