Polychaete worm reefs in the Pontic infralittoral zone

A variety of polychaete worm reefs occur in the Black Sea. The habitat forming species are dependent on two variables: depth and exposure to wave action. In more sheltered and freshwater-influenced environments the non-native serpulid tubeworm Ficopomatus enigmaticus is the most common reef building species. In moderately exposed environments reefs formed by the serpulid Vermiliopsis infundibulum are present. Finally, on lower infralittoral rock serpulids form massive reefs in collaboration with bivalves (i.e. Ostrea edulis, Mytilus galloprovincialis). These reefs are an important component of the Black Sea ecosystem and are characterised by high biodiversity and fulfill important water filtration role.

Indicators of quality:

Both biotic and abiotic indicators have been used to describe marine habitat quality. These include; the presence of characteristic species, species sensitive to the pressures the habitat may face, water quality parameters, levels of exposure to particular pressures as well as and more integrated indices which describe habitat structure and function, such as trophic index, or successional stages of development in habitats that have a natural cycle of change over time. There are no commonly agreed indicators of quality for this habitat, although particular parameters may have been set in certain situations e.g. protected features within Natura 2000 sites, where reference values have been determined and applied on a location-specific basis.

Synthesis of Red List assessment

Confidence in the assessment

Pressures and threats