Oceanographia Journal
Volume 3, Numéro 1, Pages 120-132
2026-11-01

Marine Faunal Inventory Of The Eastern Tipaza Coast (central Algeria, Southwestern Mediterranean Sea): Baseline Data For Biodiversity Assessment

Authors : Chabane Juba . Ghalmi Rachida .

Abstract

Coastal ecosystems along the Mediterranean Sea are highly diverse yet spatially heterogeneous, with many areas remaining poorly documented. This study provides a faunistic inventory of marine assemblages along the eastern Tipaza coastline (Algeria) and evaluates spatial patterns of species richness, diversity, and community structure. Sampling was conducted between January and June 2024 at six stations using a combination of field surveys and fishery-dependent data. A total of 282 species across eight phyla were recorded, with Mollusca, Chordata, and Arthropoda being the most species-rich groups. Alpha diversity indices, richness estimators, and individual-based rarefaction revealed pronounced differences among stations, with harbour areas and Posidonia oceanica meadows supporting the highest diversity. Observed richness likely underestimates true diversity, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring. The presence of endemic and invasive species emphasizes the ecological value and vulnerability of these coastal habitats. These baseline data provide essential information for biodiversity assessment, conservation planning, and sustainable management of Mediterranean coastal ecosystems.

Keywords

Marine biodiversity ; Faunistic inventory ; Coastal ecosystems ; Posidonia oceanica ; Algerian coast ; Tipaza