National inventory and current status of Echinodermata in Libyan marine waters
Benzeglam, S.A.; Abushala, N.; Fitori, A.; Bek-Benghazi, N.; Shakman, E.A. (2025). National inventory and current status of Echinodermata in Libyan marine waters. Libyan Journal of Ecological and Environmental Sciences & Technology 7(2): 96-103. https://dx.doi.org/10.63359/gbnfqp15
In: Libyan Journal of Ecological and Environmental Sciences & Technology. Libyan Center for Studies and Research in Environmental Sciences and Technology: Brack Al-Shatti. ISSN 2710-5229; e-ISSN 2710-5237, more
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New records
Echinodermata [WoRMS]; Ophiactis macrolepidota Marktanner-Turneretscher, 1887 [WoRMS]; Ophiactis virens (M. Sars, 1859) [WoRMS]; Ophidiaster ophidianus (Lamarck, 1816) [WoRMS]; Tethyaster subinermis (Philippi, 1837) [WoRMS]
Libya [Marine Regions]
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| Authors | | Top |
- Benzeglam, S.A.
- Abushala, N.
- Fitori, A.
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- Bek-Benghazi, N.
- Shakman, E.A.
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| Abstract |
Libyan extensive coastline along the southern Mediterranean Sea is characterized by diverse marine habitats and rich biodiversity. Among the key components of this ecological wealth are echinoderms, which play important roles in benthic ecosystems. This study provides the first comprehensive inventory of echinoderm species documented in Libyan waters, compiled from a range of field surveys conducted over the past several decades. A total of 48 species have been identified, spanning all five echinoderm classes: Crinoidea (1 species), Asteroidea (15 species), Ophiuroidea (12 species), Echinoidea (13 species), and Holothuroidea (7 species). Significantly, this work includes the first recorded occurrences of Ophidiaster ophidianus and Tethyaster subinermis (Asteroidea), as well as Ophiactis virens and Ophiactis macrolepidota (Ophiuroidea) in Libyan waters. These findings enhance our understanding of echinoderm biodiversity along the southern Mediterranean and establish an important baseline for future ecological and conservation efforts in the region. |
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