EUNIS habitat classification 2017 > M - Marine benthic habitats > MG2 - Abyssal biogenic habitat

Abyssal biogenic habitat

Description (English)

Biogenic structures of the abyssal zone formed when reef-forming species, such as cold water corals, attach to any hard substrate present and grow over the surrounding area forming a secondary substrate over the top. This changes the composition of the associated community as it provides a stable surface for epifauna to attach. Biogenic structure includes only areas where the seafloor is completely covered, not isolated structures, such as sponge aggregations or discrete corals.

Source: EUNIS habitat classification

Quick facts

EUNIS habitat type code MG2

Vegetation types

Relation to vegetation types (syntaxa)

Not available

Species mentioned in habitat description

Not available

Other classifications

Classification Code Habitat type name Relationship type
EUNIS Habitat Classification 2007 (revised descriptions 2012) A6 Deep-sea bed narrower
EUNIS Habitat Classification 2007 (revised descriptions 2012) A6.6 Deep-sea bioherms narrower
For relation to plant communities (syntaxa), see Vegetation types

History

Classification Code Habitat type name Relationship type Comment
EUNIS Habitat Classification 200410 A6.6 Deep-sea bioherms same
EUNIS Habitat Classification 200410 A6 Deep-sea bed same
EUNIS Habitat Classification 200308 A5.6 Deep-sea bioherms same
EUNIS Habitat Classification 200308 A5 Deep-sea bed same
EUNIS Habitat Classification 200202 A5 Deep-sea bed same
EUNIS Habitat Classification 200202 A5.6 Deep-sea bioherms same
EUNIS Habitat Classification 199811 A5 Deep seabed (over 200m depth) same
EUNIS Habitat Classification 199712 A7 Deep seabed (over 200 m depth) same
Palaearctic Habitat Classification 199905 11.21 Deep sea floor not defined
Palaearctic Habitat Classification 1997 11.21 Deep sea floor not defined
Palaearctic Habitat Classification 1996 11.21   not defined
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