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Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates
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Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates

A special issue of Journal of Marine Science and Engineering (ISSN 2077-1312). This special issue belongs to the section "Marine Biology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 October 2025 | Viewed by 11256

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Alexios Lolas

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Thessaly, Thessaly, Greece
Interests: marine ecology; marine biodiversity; marine invertebrates; marine biology, marine aquaculture; population dynamics
Dr. Dimitris Klaoudatos

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Thessaly, Thessaly, Greece
Interests: demersal fisheries; artificial reefs; integrated coastal zone management; aquaculture; environmental impact assessment
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Marine invertebrates are essential components of coastal and ocean ecosystems. Their biodiversity is astonishing, with thousands of species inhabiting oceans and seas worldwide. Understanding this diversity is crucial for assessing the health of marine ecosystems and identifying conservation priorities. Moreover, marine invertebrates offer unique insights into the impacts of environmental change and anthropogenic activities on our oceans. Their pivotal roles in ecological dynamics and the intricate relationships they form within these habitats underscore the significance of studying their biodiversity and population ecology. As we face growing threats to marine environments, the need for rigorous, interdisciplinary research on marine invertebrates is more pressing than ever. By investigating their biodiversity and population ecology, we aim to enrich our understanding of these vital creatures and contribute to the preservation of the oceans' delicate balance. This Special Issue is dedicated to shedding light on the multifaceted world of marine invertebrates and their critical ecological functions.

We would like to invite papers on the topic of "Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates". Original research articles and reviews are welcome. Contributions should delve into various aspects of marine invertebrates, encompassing taxonomic, ecological, and evolutionary perspectives. Submissions should emphasize the complex interactions within and between invertebrate species, their adaptations to changing environments, and their implications for ecosystem health and sustainability. Authors are encouraged to explore innovative methodologies and share empirical research that can further our knowledge and guide future conservation efforts.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Alexios Lolas
Dr. Dimitris Klaoudatos
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • biodiversity hotspots
  • population dynamics
  • ecological interactions
  • habitat diversity
  • biogeography
  • environmental impact
  • ecosystem engineers
  • biodiversity indices

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

40 pages, 73082 KiB  
Article
Taxonomic Study of Free-Living Marine Nematodes in the Subgenus Tricoma (Desmoscolecida: Desmoscolecidae) from the Subtidal Zone of the East Sea, Korea, with Insights into the Ultrastructure of the Lip Region
by Hyo Jin Lee, Heegab Lee and Hyun Soo Rho
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(12), 2310; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12122310 - 15 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1043
Abstract
This study provides a taxonomic analysis of three newly discovered species of free-living marine nematodes in the subgenus Tricoma from the East Sea, Korea. Tricoma (Tricoma) polyringulata sp. nov. is characterized by its relatively small body size, with lengths of 280–370 [...] Read more.
This study provides a taxonomic analysis of three newly discovered species of free-living marine nematodes in the subgenus Tricoma from the East Sea, Korea. Tricoma (Tricoma) polyringulata sp. nov. is characterized by its relatively small body size, with lengths of 280–370 µm in males and 320–390 µm in females, and 75–89 main rings. Diagnostic features include an uncovered first ring, triangular head shape, amphidial fovea with slight constriction, and a unique pattern of somatic setae, comprising 7–9 subdorsal and 8–12 subventral setae. Tricoma (Tricoma) fortiseta sp. nov. is distinguished by 65–69 main rings, 10–12 subdorsal setae, and 17–20 subventral setae, along with a hexagonal head, a well-defined labial region with six lips, and bifid-tipped cephalic setae located medially on the head. Tricoma (Tricoma) uljinensis sp. nov. exhibits 67–70 main rings, with a thick, sclerotized head that is 1.5 times as wide as its length, gently triangular in shape. Its diagnostic features include a gubernaculum bent downward near its midpoint and a conical terminal ring, with 25–39% of the desmos covered. Detailed morphological descriptions of each species are provided, along with a comparative table of morphological traits for species with 61–75 main rings and an illustrated key for identification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates)
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13 pages, 1969 KiB  
Article
Length–Weight Relationships of the Prized Sea Cucumber Holothuria lessoni from In Situ and Ex Situ Measurements
by Lea A. F. Djenidi, Steven W. Purcell, Aaron W. Thornton, Hugues Gossuin and Antoine Gilbert
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(12), 2283; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12122283 - 12 Dec 2024
Viewed by 953
Abstract
Fisheries science draws on morphometric data for stock assessments. Length–weight relationships are essential for estimating body weight from length measurements taken either underwater (in situ) or out of the water (ex situ). We examined morphometric models for the high-valued sea cucumber, Holothuria lessoni [...] Read more.
Fisheries science draws on morphometric data for stock assessments. Length–weight relationships are essential for estimating body weight from length measurements taken either underwater (in situ) or out of the water (ex situ). We examined morphometric models for the high-valued sea cucumber, Holothuria lessoni. From 77 specimens captured in 2024 (mean weight ± SD: 1774 ± 372 g), we measured body length and width in situ and ex situ, then weighed the animals ex situ. We compared morphometric models using four biometric parameters. The fitted relationships were more statistically significant (p < 0.001) when using in situ measurements compared to ex situ measurements. The length–weight relationship from our study was compared with those from two previous studies on the same species at the same location. Each study generated significantly (p < 0.001) different length–weight relationships. These findings suggest that length–weight relationships should be re-evaluated at regular intervals, as they may evolve over time. Our study indicates that estimation of body weight from length (and width) must rely on established relationships corresponding to whether the measurements are made in situ or ex situ. Our results suggest that in situ measurements could provide more reliable data for length–weight relationships in certain holothuroids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates)
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26 pages, 31728 KiB  
Article
Discovery of Two New Deep-Sea Desmoscolex Species (Nematoda: Desmoscolecidae) with Wing-like Cephalic Setae from the Ulleung Basin, the East Sea, Korea
by Wooin Jung and Hyun Soo Rho
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(12), 2257; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12122257 - 9 Dec 2024
Viewed by 770
Abstract
This study describes two new species of the subgenus Desmoscolex (Nematoda: Desmoscolecidae) from deep-sea habitats in the Ulleung Basin, the East Sea, Korea, located in the NorthWest Pacific Ocean. Both species exhibit cephalic setae with wing-like appendages—a rare trait documented in only a [...] Read more.
This study describes two new species of the subgenus Desmoscolex (Nematoda: Desmoscolecidae) from deep-sea habitats in the Ulleung Basin, the East Sea, Korea, located in the NorthWest Pacific Ocean. Both species exhibit cephalic setae with wing-like appendages—a rare trait documented in only a few species of this subgenus. Desmoscolex (Desmoscolex) globiceps sp. nov. is characterized by a rounded head covered with concretion particles, wing-like cephalic setae equipped with thin, flap-like membranes, and oval amphidial fovea that cover most of the head. The body is composed of 17 main rings, bearing slender somatic setae that taper to an open tip and a conical terminal ring that elongates to a short spinneret. Females of this species lack subventral setae on the 14th main ring. Desmoscolex (Desmoscolex) ovaliceps sp. nov. features an oval head covered with foreign particles, wing-like cephalic setae with thin, flap-like membranes, and oval amphids encompassing much of the head. This species also has a body with 17 main rings, with subdorsal setae gradually tapering toward the tip, which is slightly differentiated from the rest, and shorter subventral setae ending with an open distal tip. The terminal ring is conical, slightly tapered, and terminates in an uncovered spinneret. Detailed morphological descriptions of both species are provided, incorporating scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential interference contrast (DIC) images. A comparative analysis with previously described taxa is included, along with a pictorial key to assist in the identification of related species, contributing to a deeper understanding of morphological diversity within the subgenus Desmoscolex. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates)
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31 pages, 42833 KiB  
Article
Two New Species of Desmoscolex (Nematoda: Desmoscolecidae) from Subtidal Benthic Habitats in Korea, with a Comparative Analysis of Cephalic Setae Variability
by Wooin Jung, Ji-Hoon Kihm and Hyun Soo Rho
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(12), 2168; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12122168 - 27 Nov 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 812
Abstract
This study describes two new species of the subgenus Desmoscolex (Nematoda: Desmoscolecidae) from subtidal benthic habitats in Korea, located in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean. Both species are distinguished by the absence of cephalic setae—a rare feature previously documented in only three species within [...] Read more.
This study describes two new species of the subgenus Desmoscolex (Nematoda: Desmoscolecidae) from subtidal benthic habitats in Korea, located in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean. Both species are distinguished by the absence of cephalic setae—a rare feature previously documented in only three species within this subgenus: Desmoscolex (Desmoscolex) rostratus Timm, 1970; D. (D.) asetosus Decraemer, 1975; and D. (D.) obscurus Bussau, 1993. The new species exhibit distinct morphological features. Desmoscolex (D.) lanceosetatus sp. nov. is characterized by an asymmetrical, dorsally curved head; large amphidial fovea that extend to the posterior margin of the first main ring; and lance-shaped subdorsal setae. In females, the absence of subventral setae on the 14th ring deviates from the typical arrangement of 17 main rings. Desmoscolex (D.) rotundicephalus sp. nov. is identified by its globular head, oval amphidial fovea, and tapering subdorsal setae with an open tip. In females, the absence of subventral setae on the 14th ring further differentiates it from closely related species. This paper provides detailed morphological descriptions supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential interference contrast (DIC) images. Additionally, it includes a comprehensive morphological comparison with previously described species, species diagnoses, and a pictorial key for identification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates)
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21 pages, 26802 KiB  
Article
Reproductive Biology of Pearl Oyster (Pinctada radiata, Leach 1814) Based on Microscopic and Macroscopic Assessment of Both Sexes in the Eastern Mediterranean (South Evia Island)
by Dimitris Pafras, Chrysoula Apostologamvrou, Athina Balatsou, Alexandros Theocharis, Alexios Lolas, Marianthi Hatziioannou, Dimitris Vafidis and Dimitris Klaoudatos
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(8), 1259; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12081259 - 25 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2275
Abstract
The Atlantic pearl oyster, Pinctada radiata (Leach, 1814), is an Indo-Pacific bivalve of the subtidal zone that has colonized habitats all over the Mediterranean. There is a lack of detailed information on the reproductive activity of P. radiata in Hellenic waters, especially following [...] Read more.
The Atlantic pearl oyster, Pinctada radiata (Leach, 1814), is an Indo-Pacific bivalve of the subtidal zone that has colonized habitats all over the Mediterranean. There is a lack of detailed information on the reproductive activity of P. radiata in Hellenic waters, especially following the recent amendment of national legislation aiming to regulate the fishery and prevent illegal fishing and trafficking as a substitute for indigenous oysters. A total of 703 individuals were collected by scuba diving from the southwest part of Evia Island. Gonad microscopic examination indicated that gametogenesis occurs from February to September, with a recovery stage in early autumn. Synchronicity occurs for both sexes, with temperature being the main controlling factor. The annual recruitment pattern indicated two prominent peaks of similar magnitude. Analysis of covariance indicated a significant temperature effect on gonad index above 22 degrees. Onset of sexual maturity (L50) was estimated at 47.2 mm in shell height and 27.09 gr in total weight for the entire population. The sex ratio was in favor of females at 1:1.70, with 7% and 19% of the individuals assessed macroscopically and microscopically identified as hermaphrodites, respectively. Results offer valuable information for the management and conservation of pearl oyster populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates)
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20 pages, 10315 KiB  
Article
Variation in the Occurrence of Salp and Doliolid Assemblages in the Northeastern East China Sea from 2019 to 2023
by Hyung-Uk Choi, Young Seok Jeong, Seohwi Choo and Ho Young Soh
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(6), 862; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12060862 - 22 May 2024
Viewed by 1565
Abstract
This study characterizes the distribution of salp and doliolid species in the northeastern East China Sea during spring and autumn and identifies the factors that regulate their abundance. The data were collected over four years (2019–2023, except 2020). During the survey period, the [...] Read more.
This study characterizes the distribution of salp and doliolid species in the northeastern East China Sea during spring and autumn and identifies the factors that regulate their abundance. The data were collected over four years (2019–2023, except 2020). During the survey period, the Tsushima Warm Current Surface and Bottom (TWCS and TWCB, respectively) and Yellow Sea Cold Bottom Water were influential in spring, while the Changjiang Diluted Water, Coastal Water, TWCS, and TWCB were dominant in autumn. The mean sea surface temperature (SST) and sea surface salinity (SSS) in spring and the mean SST in autumn statistically decreased (p < 0.05), while the mean SSS in autumn statistically increased (p < 0.05). The spatial distribution of salp and doliolid species remained consistent in spring and autumn, although the dominant assemblage shifted seasonally. Spring was predominantly characterized by an abundance of salp species, whereas doliolid species were dominant in autumn, with their distribution and abundance influenced by different environmental factors such as temperature and salinity in spring and food availability in autumn. Our results provide valuable data on the factors affecting the presence of salp and doliolid species in the northeastern East China Sea. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates)
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13 pages, 5480 KiB  
Article
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of the Chemosymbiotic Lucinid Bivalve Pillucina pisidium (Dunker, 1860) Occurring in Seagrass Zostera marina Bed in a Lagoon in Jeju Island, Korea
by Jong-Seop Shin, Chi-une Song, Hyeongwoo Choi, Sung Hyun Yang, Kae Kyoung Kwon, Seong-il Eyun and Kwang-Sik Choi
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 847; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050847 - 20 May 2024
Viewed by 1511
Abstract
Commonly found in tropic and subtropic seagrass beds, lucinid clams host sulfur-oxidizing bacteria within their gills. These symbionts are crucial in converting phytotoxic sulfide in the sediment into less harmful sulfate, thus enhancing the environment for seagrasses and associated biota. We recently uncovered [...] Read more.
Commonly found in tropic and subtropic seagrass beds, lucinid clams host sulfur-oxidizing bacteria within their gills. These symbionts are crucial in converting phytotoxic sulfide in the sediment into less harmful sulfate, thus enhancing the environment for seagrasses and associated biota. We recently uncovered small clams within a Zostera marina seagrass bed situated in a lagoon on Jeju Island, off the south coast of Korea. These bivalves, with shell lengths of up to 7 mm, exhibited distinct features, including thick and hypertrophied gills, inflated and ovoid shells with a shell height/shell length ratio of 0.99, and the absence of a sulcus on the external shell surface. These characteristics align closely with those of Pillucina pisidium, a lucinid clam species originally reported in Japan. Analysis of the cytochrome b gene partial sequences of the clams from Jeju Island revealed a 100% match with P. pisidium reported in Japan, confirming their identity. Moreover, we successfully assembled the complete mitochondrial genome of P. pisidium for the first time, revealing a circular genome spanning 21,059 bp. Additionally, we constructed a phylogenetic tree using 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) extracted from the mitochondrial genome of P. pisidium. Notably, P. pisidium formed a distinct clade within the subclass Autobranchia alongside other lucinid clams in the phylogenetic tree. However, within the family Lucinidae, synteny analysis of the 13 PCGs revealed diverse gene arrangement patterns, indicating considerable divergence. This divergence underscores the need for an extensive examination of Lucinidae mitochondrial genomes to elucidate the phylogenetic ties more precisely within the family, highlighting P. pisidium’s distinct evolutionary path within the family Lucinidae. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Population Ecology of Marine Invertebrates)
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