| The benthic fauna associated with polymetallic nodule fields is scarcely studied. Studies on species richness and distribution patterns are indispensable for the conservation of the abyssal ecosystem and for the development of management strategies for sustained commercial activities in the future. Here, we analysed the distribution patterns and diversity of tanaidacean communities associated with four International Seabed Authority licenced areas (BGR, IOM, GSR, Ifremer) located in the Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone (North-East equatorial Pacific) and the one Area of Particular Environmental Interests (APEI3). The study was based on 34 box core samples collected at depths ranging from 4,200 to 5,000 m. Altogether, 98 species (446 individuals) were... |
