Benthic communities and habitats in the near shore zone of the Curonian Spit (the south–eastern part of the Baltic Sea)

Benthic communities classified according to species diversity, abundance and composition of dominant complex were defined and mapped. Maps compiled represent the distribution of bottom sediment types, substrata, bathymetry and benthic communities in the pilot area. Combination of data on community distribution and several abiotic habitat features (grain size, substrate types, and photic conditions) allowed recognizing several benthic habitats, according to HELCOM habitat classification. New data on features of coastal benthic biotopes made evident the existence of unique seascape “ancient lagoon mud” in the study area and allowed recommending further establishment of new marine protected areas.