Artificial vs. natural rock pools: insights into fish community diversity and conservation strategies

Abstract

Rock pools serve as essential nursery habitats, providing shelter, protection, and food for fish communities. This study surveyed 18 rock pools in the island of Gran Canaria (Canary Is, NE Atlantic Ocean) to compare fish communities between different types of rock pools and to assess differences in benthic substrate composition. A total of 39 fish species and 25,151 individuals were recorded. Artificial pools supported higher species richness and abundance but lower Evenness, indicating dominance by a few taxa, whereas natural pools exhibited a more balanced species distribution. Clear patterns in fish assemblages and substrate types were observed, highlighting the importance of substrate heterogeneity and habitat complexity, with rocky substrates being particularly important for supporting diverse fish communities. Given their ecological importance, it is imperative to prioritize the conservation of rock pool habitats to maintain their biodiversity and the ecological services they provide. Additionally, enabling holes or crevices and substrate heterogeneity in artificial pool walls may be a viable solution for preserving these habitats. Further research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms driving the observed differences between artificial and natural rock pools, and to develop effective conservation strategies adapted to these unique environments.