Network analysis reveals humans as top predators and the key role of cuttlefish in the food web structure of a marine protected area (Arrábida Natural Park)

Abstract

The marine protected area (MPA) of the Arrábida Natural Park is a mid-latitude hotspot for biodiversity. To understand its trophic structure, a highly defined food web network was assembled for this ecosystem, consisting of 884 taxa. Network analysis showed that humans are the top predators, as well as various seabirds, dolphins and sharks. This web is dominated by intermediate species, and its general organization follows previously reported patterns for other marine and coastal ecosystems. Two swimming crabs, Polybius navigator and Polybius henslowii, assume important roles as mid-trophic level consumers and prey, due to their high connectivity in the network. The cuttlefish, Sepia officinalis, a cephalopod of high commercial value, assumes the most pivotal role in the network, as it is the species with the highest number of prey and is among the top 10 most highly connected species (with more links to other species). Additionally, the cuttlefish is among the species with shortest path length, that is the lowest number of links connecting it to any other species. Since, this cephalopod is highly mobile and extends its territory outside the MPA, into the Sado estuary, where it is the main target of local fisheries, and is exposed to various pollution sources, close monitoring the local population of cuttlefish is of the utmost importance, not only in the Arrábida MPA but also in the adjacent Sado estuary.