| A cross shelf gradient sample design was applied to examine the role of microhabitat (1m2), water motion, rugosity, and topographic complexity on the reef fish community composition. Data on 35 species was analyzed using Detrended Correspondence Analysis to identify species groups according to habitat type and shelf position. Species associations were noted based on shelf stratum and exposure zones within strata, as Leeward zones were found to be distinct from the other exposure zones. Grass habitats, located in Leeward zones of reef strata, supported a high abundance of commercially important species and were found to be distinct from other microhabitats. Water motion was lowest in the Middle Shelf and characterized strata from one another, while rugosity and topographic complexity distinguished exposure zones across strata. Fish communities were found to be distributed based on a complex relationship of biotic factors as well as both microhabitat and shelf position. |
