Diversity of Fucales (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae) along the Coasts of Lipari and Vulcano (Aeolian Archipelago), Tyrrhenian Sea (Central Mediterranean Sea)

Abstract

This study explored the biodiversity of Fucales along the islands of Lipari and Vulcano, almost ten years after the last studies on the phytobenthos of these islands. To carry out this research, a monitoring activity was conducted through both scuba dives and snorkelling activities. Through this study, a total of 13 species (four belonging to Cystoseira, three to Ericaria, two to Gongolaria, and four to Sargassum) was observed. When comparing the present data with past studies, nine species were previously reported, ten taxa were not found in the present study, and four taxa were reported here for the first time in the Aeolian Archipelago. The alpha (local) diversity was higher in Vulcano than in Lipari. Moreover, the beta (turnover) diversity showed a different assemblage in species grouping between the two islands. Since some of the observed species are currently considered rare or in regression, their finding in the Aeolian Archipelago is of particular interest. Therefore, they should receive special consideration, particularly in light of the possible future establishment of a marine protected area (MPA) in the Aeolian Archipelago.