Mucilage impact on gorgonians in the Tyrrhenian sea

The type and the extent of the impact of mucilages also depend on the season. Three species of algae (Nematochrysopsis marina, Chrysonephos lewisii and Acinetospora crinita) constitute the principal components of the mucilaginous aggregates. In general, the first two species occur during the spring season, down to 20 m, while A. crinita occurs at greater depths. In July, when the mucilages reach their maximum development, C. lewisii is the predominant species. This species mainly affects E. cavolinii and E. singularis while A. crinita mainly affects P. clavata, which colonizes greater depths.