Response of meiofaunal community with special reference to nematodes upon deployment of artificial reefs and cessation of bottom trawling in subtropical waters, Hong Kong

► Higher sediment nutrient levels and meiofaunal abundance were found in trawled areas. ► However, nematode community with more dominant species was noted in non-trawled areas. ► Nematodes with k-strategy life history were also dominant in non-trawled areas.