1. In the Recent, brachiopods only seldom occur in benthic communities. A biotope dominated by Megerlia truncata was identified in 2013 by exploration of the south-easternmost Adriatic margin by Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). 2. Emerging rocky substrates next to the shelf break at approximately 120 m appear intensively exploited by this eurybathic rhynchonelliformean brachiopod, attaining a population of more than 300 individuals per m2. 3.Calcareous red algae are almost ubiquitous at this site and preferentially encrust sectors of the substrate where brachiopods are minimal. 4. This Megerlia biotope is a novel finding for this part of the Mediterranean Sea, similar to a situation previously observed in the Western Basin, off the Mediterranean French coast. 5. It is proposed that this remarkable brachiopod biotope and the adjacent rhodolith bed are considered important for conservation management.

Depth range
106- 133 m

Mesophotic “mentions”
0 x (total of 3916 words)

Classification
* Presents original data
* Focused on 'mesophotic' depth range
* Focused on 'temperate mesophotic ecosystem'

Fields
Community structure
Ecology
Management and Conservation

Focusgroups
Algae (Macro, Turf and Crustose Coralline)
Hydrozoa
Other invertebrates
Overall benthic (groups)
Porifera (Sponges)

Locations
Albania

Platforms
Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
Sonar / Multibeam