Secondary productivity within biotic fouling community elements on two artificial reef structures in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

Secondary productivity of two platform artificial reefs was examined sseagonally. The study examined seasonal differences and annual secondary productivity of epifaunal elements associated with the fouling community known to be specific to the dies of selected reef fishes. Examination of the fouling community using cohort-size analysis revealed the annual amphipod production of 3–4 cohorts per species per year. Seasonal variation in amphipod density were striking, ranging from 600 to nearly 12,680 individuals/m2. Densities were correlated with water temperature and depth…This study has implications for the placement of platform structures for the purpose of productivity enhancement. It is clear that secondary productivity from the platform structures is significant and does supplement the diets of reef dependent finfish.