Daytime (diurnal) ecological studies far outpace night-time (nocturnal) studies (Gaston, 2019;Park, 1940). This diurnal research bias in ecology, likely driven by a plethora of logistical challenges, is exacerbated in submerged aquatic systems where light is naturally scarce, and where organisms must be studied in situ. Coral reefs typify this disparity resulting in a fragmentary understanding of the ecological functions performed by coral reef organisms during the nocturnal period. This is true even for major biological components
Seascape connectivity can facilitate key ecosystem functions in complex ecosystems like coral reefs. Many reef fishes move across the seascape, bridging different ecosystems. However, their role in shaping important functions, such as biomass production and nutrient cycling, is still poorly understood. This study, therefore, assesses the extent of natural movements of cardinalfishes (Apogonidae), one of the major contributors to nocturnal fish biomass production with the potential for a major role in transferring energy and nutrients between sandy ecosystems and adjacent coral reefs. Consistent with previous work, showing their ability to move distances of 100 s to 1000 s of metres when displaced, we reveal that these small fishes undergo major voluntary nocturnal foraging forays extending up to at least 145 m from reef structures. Their estimated daily movement distances are at least 430 times greater than expected based solely on body size-home range expectations. Given their large travel distances and strong homing abilities, apogonids may provide a major conduit for material transfer between lagoonal soft sediment habitats and adjacent coral reefs. These results highlight the potential importance of apogonids in the cross-system or cross-habitat transport of energy and nutrients on coral reefs.
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