Marine Animal Forest Tool Box

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Marine Animal Forests (MAFs) are living, three-dimensional benthic ecosystems primarily composed of sessile suspension feeders such as corals, sponges, gorgonians, bryozoans, and ascidians. Structurally and functionally analogous to terrestrial forests, these complex habitats support high biodiversity, providing shelter, nursery grounds, and feeding areas for numerous marine species. Beyond their ecological value, MAFs contribute to biogeochemical cycling, biodiversity enhancement, carbon sequestration, and immobilization, nursery grounds and coastal protection, making their study and preservation crucial for ocean health. 

MAFs face escalating threats, including rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, destructive fishing practices, and pollution. Effective conservation demands integrated strategies: expanding Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), enforcing sustainable fisheries policies, reducing land-based pollutants, and mitigating climate change through global cooperation. By combining cutting-edge research with proactive management, we can safeguard these vital ecosystems before irreversible degradation occurs. 

Given their vulnerability, understanding and protecting MAFs requires advanced protocols and multidisciplinary methods. This collection highlights the latest advances in MAF research, offering a comprehensive framework for scientists, policymakers, and conservationists working to preserve the forests of the sea. The following topics are considered:

Environmental variables of the water column
• Hyperbenthos
• Taxonomic constituents
• Underwater mapping
• Biodiversity measurements
• Microclimate
• Demography and population dynamics
• Trophic ecology
• Reproduction and dispersal strategies
• Physiological processes
• Biomarkers
• Chemical ecology
• Omics tools
• MAF and policy
• Direct impacts
• Climate change and MAFs
• MAF restoration
• Historical ecology
• Monitoring tools for MPAs
• Natural capital
• Socioeconomic approaches
• Communication and engagement

Collection advisors: Sergio Rossi (University of Salento, CoNISMa, Italy), Lorenzo Bramanti (LECOB, Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls Sur Mer, CNRS, France), Federica Costantini (University of Bologna, CoNISMa, Italy), Enrique Isla (Institut de Ciencies del Mar, CSIC, Spain)