Responses of Functional Traits of Macrobenthic Communities to Human Activities in Daya Bay (A Subtropical Semi-Enclosed Bay), China

The biological trait analysis (BTA) is regarded as a promising approach to unravel how ecosystem functions respond human-induced disturbances. This study considered the four sampling locations associated with different human activities in Daya Bay, that is, domestic and industrial sewage discharge area (SED), mariculture (MRC), nuclear power plants thermal (NTD), an relatively low disturbance reference (REF). Thirty modalities of nine traits were selected BTA. Our results showed clear shift functional structure macrobenthic communities between locations, except for case NTD REF. composition did not highlight any seasonal patterns. Bioturbation, longevity, tolerance, body size, feeding habit, environmental position key characterize demonstrated predictable responses along gradients. Water depth, DO, Chl- , NH 4 + petroleum contaminants sediments main variables influencing composition. In addition, taxonomic index ( H′ ) diversity (Rao’s Q) differences among locations. Although there no significant REF terms diversity, potential function loss still can be detected through integrated diversity. We suggest (except fragility, larval development, living habits) indices Rao’s could serve indicators ecological conditions Bay.