Distribution of mobile and non-symbiotic species of invertebrates living in hydrothermal vents is affected by ocean tides and winter surface storms, new research suggests. Using a brand new technique, researchers are able to provide first-ever evidence of these populations being affected by ocean dynamics even at deep-sea levels, in habitats over 2 kilometres from the surface. Study authors suggest that invertebrate species like Pycnogonids Sericosura and Polynoidae polychaetes adjust their behaviors according with the ocean dynamics to ensure optimal living conditions.
Authors:
Yann Lelièvre, Pierre Legendre, Marjolaine Matabos, Steve Mihály, Raymond W. Lee, Pierre-Marie Sarradin, Claudia P. Arango, Jozée Sarrazin
Corresponding author:
Yann Lelièvre, Department of Biological Sciences, Université de Montréal, Email: yann.lelievre10@gmail.com
Original paper published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences on April 5, 2017.
