Spatial distribution of meiofaunal and macrofaunal assemblages in the tidal flats of the southern Korean coast in relation to natural and anthropogenic impacts

A study on the tidal flats of Geum River (Getbol) in South Korea reveals that sediment-related variables and heavy metals are the primary environmental factors influencing the spatial distribution of macrofaunal and meiofaunal assemblages. While macrofauna, dominated by Annelida, were mainly affected by these factors, meiofauna, particularly Nematoda, showed additional sensitivity to sea surface temperature, dissolved oxygen, and salinity. This research provides critical ecological data for understanding the impacts of both natural and anthropogenic pressures on tidal flat ecosystems, offering a foundation for marine environmental management strategies in the region.

Kim, J. W., Kim, H.-G., Kim, H., Hawkins, S. J., Seo, I.-S., & Oh, C.-W. (2023). Spatial distribution of meiofaunal and macrofaunal assemblages in the tidal flats of the southern Korean coast in relation to natural and anthropogenic impacts. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 194, 115377. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115377