Data Sheet 5_Temporal dynamics in benthopelagic community composition and abundance on the edge of the Monterey Submarine Canyon.csv

A total of 503 benthic videos were annotated. Forty-one predatory interactions were observed, 34 of which occurred between benthic and pelagic organisms, which may suggest that the canyon walls do support benthopelagic interactions. Analyses were focused on the temporal and environmental drivers of the abundances of seven specific groups of taxa.

Pre-sunrise peaks in abundance, indicative of topographic blocking of downward migrators, were present among the majority of groups analyzed. Across-isobath, along-isobath, and vertical current velocities, moon phase, and temperature consistently influenced the abundances of some taxa, however environmental variables only explained 10.9% of the variation in community composition. Our results support the presence of consistent diel shifts in canyon edge community composition.

Physical-biological coupling influenced some migratory taxa within the boundary zone and appeared to be facilitated by topographic blockage. Currents, however, did not account for as much variability in the benthopelagic community as initially expected. Understanding the drivers of community composition and benthopelagic coupling that occur in the Monterey Submarine Canyon has implications for efficient predator management and conservation of these critical habitats.

However, further investigation is required to fully understand these environmental drivers.</p>