The study explores the macrobenthic communities of the Zwin nature reserve, an intertidal lagoon under the Natura 2000 Bird and Habitat directive. With representative sampling and statistical analyses, the research establishes key insights into macrobenthic community composition, structure, and spatial distribution. Dominance by species such as Hediste diversicolor and Heteromastus filiformis underscores their ecological significance within the lagoon's diverse ecosystem. Five distinct community groups identified and characterized by varying sediment characteristics highlight the importance of sediment properties in shaping species distribution. Non-linear regression models provide valuable insights into the relationships between species abundance and sediment variables and offer support to the analysis. Comparative analyses between old and newly restored areas of the lagoon reveal similar communities and sediment characteristics in both areas. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding macrobenthic communities and their environmental drivers for effective conservation and management in coastal ecosystems. Sediment types to target for high abundance of prey organisms for wading birds are mudflats and fine sandflats. By informing targeted conservation strategies, this research contributes to the broader understanding of ecological dynamics in coastal habitats, ensuring the long-term resilience and sustainability of the Zwin lagoon and similar coastal environments.
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