Shifts in benthic megafauna communities after glacial retreat in an Antarctic fjord

This study investigated changes in Antarctic benthic megafauna communities due to recent glacial retreat in Marian Cove. Benthic megafauna communities showed less variation at 10m due to frequent ice-scouring. At deeper depths (50–90m), megafauna was scarce near the glacier but peaked near the glacier (~10 years after exposure). Pioneer species dominated near the glacier, while late-successional species were abundant at the outermost site. Taxonomic and functional diversities peaked near the glacier and the outermost site respectively. A four-step successional process (high disturbance, colonization, transition, and maturing stages) was identified.

Dong-U Kim, In-Young Ahn, Junsung Noh, Changkeun Lee, Jong Seong Khim