A semi-quantitative analysis of spatial-temporal distributions of soft corals (Alcyonium sp., Gersemia sp.) and Basket Stars (Gorgonocephalus sp.) in the Passamaquoddy Bay region creating baseline data for informing management strategies.

Abstract

Understanding the habitat range shifts of benthic species is crucial for determining the health of marine ecosystems, planning and resource management. Monitoring as part of ecosystem-based management can be accomplished with the use of bioindicator organisms. This case-study focuses on recording the changes in spatial-temporal ranges of benthic invertebrates in Passamaquoddy Bay and the Western Isles using Gorgonocephalus sp., Alcyonium sp., and Gersemia sp. which are historically under-studied organisms. This study aims to create more comprehensive spatial-temporal records of these benthic invertebrates in Passamaquoddy Bay and the Western Isles by compiling historical records from multiple data sources. Having a more comprehensive perspective on how these species' ranges have shifted and tracking their presence in Passamaquoddy Bay over time will help inform planning and management strategies. Data sources used included; collaborative knowledge observations from Huntsman affiliates, DFO drop camera surveys, records from GBIF and dive surveys. Based on the records collected from secondary source data and most of the recent benthic habitat surveys conducted in this study, it is likely that Gorgonocephalus sp. and Gersemia sp. are extirpated from Passamaquoddy Bay and the Western Isles as well as a decrease in the abundance of Alcyonium sp.