Structure of nearshore fish assemblages in Annaba coastal waters, Algeria (Sw SW Mediterranean Sea) (Article 3)

Nearshore shallow waters are important ecosystems. They fulfill many different vital functions for fishes, providing food and shelter from predators, and a nursery ground for numerous species. The aim of this study was to investigate spatial and temporal variations of fish assemblages in the nearshore waters along Annaba coast. Monthly beach seine hauls were performed between 0 and 1.5 m depth at 3 sites: Ain Achir, Belvédère and La Caroube. Fish diversity, spatiotemporal variations in fish assemblages, and relationships between environmental variables and ecological factors were analyzed. A total of 5687 individuals, representing 46 species from 21 families, were collected during the 12 months of sampling. Juveniles represent more than 90 % of fish assemblages. Species richness and abundance were highest during late spring and summer, and lowest in winter and early spring. However, there were no significant differences in the fish assemblage at the spatial scale. Water temperature was the most important environmental factor influencing fish species richness and abundances. The combination of the fish assemblages and environmental variables determined in this study contribute to a better understanding of the ecological networks of Annaba nearshore, thus providing useful data for its conservation and management.