The Fucales (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae) of the Island of Pantelleria (Sicily Channel, Mediterranean Sea): a new contribution

Abstract

In the past, only a few studies were carried out on the marine vegetation of the Island of Pantelleria, reporting a high level of biodiversity in this island. However, the most recent study, performed about 20 years ago, documented a total loss of Fucales below ca. 12 m of depth and their substitution with morphologically simpler species. In the present study, the current presence and distribution of Cystoseira s.l. and Sargassum around the Island of Pantelleria were assessed, comparing the current data with the previous studies on the marine vegetation of this island. Through monitoring activities (both snorkelling and scuba diving), 19 taxa were recorded: seven belonging to Cystoseira, six to Ericaria, four to Gongolaria, and two to Sargassum. Comparing these data with the previous studies, it was highlighted that most of the species previously reported are still present on the island. Moreover, approximately 20 years after their documented disappearance, deep-water species such as C. foeniculacea f. latiramosa, G. elegans, G. montagnei, G. montagnei v. compressa and Sargassum cf. acinarium were recorded during this study, suggesting a natural recovery for these Fucales. We recommend that, in order to guarantee a long-term conservation of these fucalean populations, it would be useful to establish a marine protected area in the Island of Pantelleria.