Mussels as ecosystem engineers can assist in natural coastal defense and serve as a viable approach to fostering climate-resilient shorelines. Over a three-year period, this study analyzed the formation and influence of newly created mussel beds on the benthic community at two sites characterized by distinct hydrodynamic conditions. Hydrodynamic conditions strongly influenced the seabed and benthic community in the study area, with the sheltered site exhibiting higher density, species richness, biomass, and diversity compared to the exposed site. Notable differences in mobility, feeding mode, and bioturbation were observed between the two hydrodynamic conditions. Moreover, functional diversity indices indicated better resource-use efficiency in the sheltered site. In relation to the mussel bed developments, mussel patches were found at both site (higher occurrence in shelter) in 2nd and 3rd year (mainly in summer towards early winter). The influence of mussels on sediment deposition was noticeable in sheltered site, albeit lacking statistical significance, suggesting their potential role in erosion/deposition mechanisms. Also, a higher proportion of very fine sand was observed in the mussel bed compared to the bare sand. An effect of those patches on macrobenthic community structure and functioning was not observed. However, in order to achieve a sustained and dense mussel bed and maximize the potential impact of mussels in combating climate change, additional measures to reduce wave forces may be necessary.
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