Subtidal macrobenthos communities of Vostok Bay (Sea of Japan) under conditions of anthropogenic impact

Abstract

Quantitative samples of the macrobenthos were collected in May, July, and October-November from 2000 to 2002 in Vostok Bay, Sea of Japan. The main characteristics of the subtidal macrobenthos communities are described. The present study shows that the rocky bottom communities of Vostok Bay have changed little over the past 30 years. Changes have occurred in the structure of soft bottom communities and phytocenoses. Analysis of the macrophytes species composition and the value of the floristic coefficient suggest a currently moderate anthropogenic load on Vostok Bay.