Vertical distribution of Baikal endemic sponges (Fam. Lubomirskiidae)

Abstract

We analyzed the species diversity and vertical distribution of the species of Baikal endemic sponges by depths along the transects in Listvennichniy Bay as well as near Varnachka Valley and Turali Cape. The analysis revealed that over 15 years there was no changes in the species composition in these places. The pattern of change in the species composition with depth was also preserved. However, we observe a decrease in the number of the branching sponge L. baikalensis, which no longer dominates other species as it was before.