Systematics and biodiversity of deep-sea sponges of the Atlanto-Mediterranean region

Abstract

Sponges are a key component of the deep-sea benthos, where they form structurally complex habitats and provide numerous ecosystem goods and services. However, there is still an enormous knowledge gap regarding the diversity, distribution and systematics of this group. This special volume presents the results of the 1st International Workshop on Taxonomy of Atlanto-Mediterranean Deep-Sea Sponges, whereby world experts worked together to start filling in this gap. Herein, new species are described, new sponge-dominated communities are reported, and diversity and distribution patterns are enlightened for this area.