Influence of Hardbottom Availability on a Nearshore Fish Community

Influence of Hardbottom Availability on a Nearshore Fish Community

The purpose of this project is to determine if hard bottom availability affects the fish abundance and species richness of a nearshore community. The research was conducted on the northeast side of Hillsboro Inlet in Broward County, Florida. The Rover Diving Technique was used to conduct visual fish counts while snorkeling within four 30 m2 areas. Quantification of hard bottom and sand substrates were also performed within these areas using transect lines. The majority of data collection occurred on a weekly basis from February 21, 2010 to October 10, 2010. We hypothesized there would be a direct correlation between fish abundance and species richness and the amount of hard bottom available. The linear regression method was used to calculate whether the results were statistically significant. Species richness was shown not to be correlated to hard bottom availability.