Megafaunal variation in the abyssal landscape of the Clarion Clipperton Zone.

ABSTRACT: The potential for imminent polymetallic nodule mining in the Clarion Clipperton Fracture Zone (CCZ) has attracted considerable scientific and public attention. This concern stems from both the extremely large seafloor areas that may be impacted by mining, and the very limited knowledge of the fauna and ecology of this region. The environmental factors regulating seafloor ecology are still very poorly understood. In this study, we focus on megafaunal ecology in the proposed conservation zone 'Area of Particular Environmental Interest 6' (study area centred 17°16'N, 122°55'W). We employ bathymetric data to objectively define three landscape types in the area (a level bottom Flat, an elevated Ridge, a depressed Trough; water depth 3950-4250 m) that are characteristic of the wider CCZ. We use

SUBMITTER: Simon-Lledo E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6325340 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature