Macrozoobenthic Species as a Part of the Benthic Communities Along the Montenegrin Adriatic Coast

Abstract

Although there are abundant data on invertebrate fauna in the benthic biocenoses of the open sea of the Montenegrin coast, this is the first attempt to integrate them as a single database. The analysis comprises all available literature data as well as information from recent personal research. In total, 489 species were identified, grouped into 8 phyla, 22 classes, and 240 families. Among the species inhabiting the shelf area of the Montenegrin coast, 27 are protected by national and international legislation, while a further seven are considered to be non-indigenous species. All species are listed with indication on locations and references. Habitats of particular importance according to the European Union Habitats Directive – such as Posidonia oceanica meadows, coralligenous habitat, and marine caves – are present in the studied area. Among the different types of substrates on the seafloor, diverse forms of benthic communities exist. In the upper infralittoral zone extends a community of photophilic algae, although in areas susceptible to overfishing, “barren” communities are expanding. Slightly deeper in the mud and sand, typical substrate communities are developed. Considerable anthropogenic impacts are evident along the Montenegrin coast, leading to the destruction of communities here and the species within.