Ontogenetic shifts in patterns of microhabitat utilization in the small-headed clingfish, Apletodon dentatus (Gobiesocidae)

The patterns of microhabitat utilization by the clingfish Apletodon dentatus were investigated, based on SCUBA diving surveys at the Arra ́bida Marine Park (Portugal). In all inspected microhabitats, this species was only found in algal turfs, sea urchins and boulders. The association of A. dentatus with sea urchins is here analysed for the first time. There was a differential utilization of the microhabitats, with small juveniles recruiting to algal turfs, intermediate individuals found in association with the sea urchins Paracentrotus lividus and Sphaerechinus granularis and larger fish occurring mainly in boulders. The depth distribution patterns are also analysed.