Trophodynamics of Nekton Assemblages and Relationships with Estuarine Habitat Structure Across a Subtropical Estuary

Abstract Understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics of trophic structures, or trophodynamics, is important for assessing overall condition and function estuarine ecosystems. We examined spatial seasonal trophodynamics nekton assemblages across seascape a subtropical estuary (Charlotte Harbor, FL, USA) using historical data from an ongoing monitoring program. also relationships between distribution vegetated habitats, such as salt marshes, mangroves, seagrass beds, well their absence along hardened shorelines (seawalls riprap) metrics (area edge density habitats within several search radii sample locations). found that in shallow waters (from shoreline to depth ≤ 1.5 m) transitioned mainly planktivores lower Peace Myakka Rivers benthivores (those feeding on benthic infauna, epifauna, seagrass) middle portions Charlotte Harbor. Overall throughout appeared be largely sustained through pathways areas with abundant nearby mangrove habitat, particularly during cool-dry winter when planktivore densities were seasonally low. The dramatic decline we rivers may related low freshwater inflow increased predation resulting recruitment pulses omnivorous species. Trophodynamics linked habitat structure described here used spatially explicit baseline monitor ecosystem health parameterize models fisheries management Harbor similar estuaries.