Biodiversity of the deep-sea continental margin bordering the Gulf of Maine (NW Atlantic): relationships among sub-regions and to shelf systems.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In contrast to the well-studied continental shelf region of the Gulf of Maine, fundamental questions regarding the diversity, distribution, and abundance of species living in deep-sea habitats along the adjacent continental margin remain unanswered. Lack of such knowledge precludes a greater understanding of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and limits development of alternatives for conservation and management.

Methodology/principal findings

We use data from the published literature, unpublished studies, museum records and online sources, to: (1) assess the current state of knowledge of species diversity in the deep-sea habitats adjacent to the Gulf of Maine (39-43°N, 63-71°W, 150-3000 m depth); (2) compare patterns of taxonomic diversity and distribution of megafaunal

SUBMITTER: Kelly NE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2988790 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature