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Chinese Journal of Ecology ›› 2021, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (2): 586-592.doi: 10.13292/j.1000-4890.202102.025

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Review on the effect of offshore wind farms on macrobenthos.

ZHAN Xiao-fang1, MA Li2, LU Zhi-qiang1,3*#br#   

  1. (1College of Fisheries, Jimei University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China; 2Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China, 3Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources and Ecoenvironment, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China).
  • Online:2021-02-10 Published:2021-07-09

Abstract: The number of offshore wind farm (OWF), as renewable energy device, has increased rapidly around the world. The construction and operation of OWF would potentially affect benthic environment. We reviewed the researches related to the impacts of OWF on macrobenthos, including provision of reef habitat, biodiversity change, protection of the seabed from trawling, and enhancement of ecological connectivity. Future research should focus on the impacts of OWF on the succession of macrobenthic communities in the long term and its potential ecological effects on the marine benthic environment. Knowledge sharing and information exchange among industry, government, and scientific research department will contribute to comprehensive and indepth understanding of the impacts of OWF on marine ecosystems.

Key words: offshore wind farm, macrobenthos, habitat, biodiversity, trawling ban, ecological connectivity.