Biodiversity and Structure of Macrozoobenthos Communities in the Hara Biosphere Reserve, Persian Gulf, Iran

Abstract We assessed the macrozoobenthos community structure, biodiversity, and health status within Hara Biosphere Reserve mangrove ecosystem in the Bandar-e Khamir and Qeshm Island. Samples were collected from eight stations within two habitats, including pneumatophore zones (vegetated) and creek bank. Sampling conducted in January and February 2018. In total, 27 taxa belonging to 19 families were identified. The results showed that Opusia indica, Ctenodrilus sp. and Perinereis horsti were the most abundant species in Hara Biosphere Reserve. No significant differences were observed in the Shannon-Wiener biodiversity index between two regions (P= 0.53) and also habitats (P= 0.68). Multidimensional scaling plots were used to identify differences in benthic community structure between regions and habitats. The results showed that the community structure of habitats (vegetated, and creek bank) were significantly different, whereas there was no significant difference between Bandar-e Khamir and Qeshm. Regarding the environmental stress, the Abundance-Biomass Comparison index (ABC index) represented the healthy status of the ecosystem. The result of the current study provides essential information on density and biodiversity of benthic fauna and is central in understanding the community structure of the assemblages. The results will contribute to the success of the marine environmental protection strategies and management.