| The deep-water benthos (115-2100 m) was sampled in the Atlantic-Mediterranean exchange area (Balgim cruise, N.O. Cryos: lberian-Moroccan Gulf, Strait of Gibraltar, Alboran Sea). The species richness of the bryozoan fauna (146 spp.) showed a marked between-site variability. Peaks of species richness occurred on both sides and in the Strait of Gibraltar under various conditions of temperature and salinity. 'rhe common features of the corresponding sites were the abundance of suitable substrates and the presence of currents facilitating supply of food and propagules. In the Alboran Sea, the species richness decreased with depth more rapidly than in the Atlantic and the depth distribution of several deep-water species showed an upward shift. There is an... |
