Characterization and spatial variation of the deep-sea fish assemblages on Pioneer Bank, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands

Deep-sea fish assemblages on Pioneer Bank, a seamount within the UNESCO-listed Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, exhibit significant spatial variability both across its sides and with depth. A study using autonomous underwater vehicle transects identified 81 species, dominated by Gadiformes, Perciformes, and Stomiiformes, with the highest relative abundance observed on the NW side at 450 meters. Species richness, diversity, and assemblage structure varied significantly between the S and NW sides, with depth being a more influential factor than horizontal distance. This spatial heterogeneity mirrors findings from nearby Necker Island, underscoring the complexity of seamount ecosystems. The study provides critical baseline data for managing and conserving deep-sea environments, highlighting the importance of salinity, rugosity, chlorophyll-a, and substrate characteristics in shaping fish assemblage structure.

Mejía-Mercado, B., & Baco, A. (2022). Characterization and spatial variation of the deep-sea fish assemblages on Pioneer Bank, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 692, 99–118. https://doi.org/10.3354/meps14071