Island biogeography of Caribbean coral reef fish

Abstract

This study tested biogeographical predictions for reef fish assemblages in the Caribbean, focusing on the relationships between fish species richness and island area, isolation, and oceanographic variables. Data from 24 Caribbean island nations revealed that fish diversity increases with island area, decreasing isolation, and higher nearshore productivity. The results align with the species-area relationship, and isolation negatively affects richness, indicating dispersal limitations. Oceanic productivity's effects on richness are linked to isolation. These findings highlight key mechanisms influencing biodiversity patterns in Caribbean reefs, likely relevant to broader Indo-Pacific reefs as well.