Ndiaye I. auteur aut IRD Diop M.S. auteur aut IRD Ndour I. auteur aut IRD Diatta Y. auteur aut IRD Ndiaye W.N. auteur aut IRD Brehmer Patrice auteur aut IRD text journalArticle eng This study, conducted on the Cap-Vert peninsula (Dakar, Senegal), examines the epifaunal communities associated with macroalgae, revealing significant variations depending on the species of algae. In 2023 (in situ samples), amphipods dominated most macroalgae, particularly Coralina officinalis (29.40%) (Rhodophyceae), Chlorophyceae (30.38%), and Codium sp. (29.38%) (Chlorophyceae). In 2022, copepods (76-92%) were most abundant on Sargassum spp. and Ulva spp., which had washed up on the beach. A significant link between epifaunal abundance and macroalgae species highlighted their ecological interdependence. These findings are of relevant interest for West Africa's blue economy, where the growing exploitation of wild macroalgae could disrupt these ecosystems. Sustainable management must take into account epifaunal species, particularly those found on structurally important macroalgae (e.g., Corallina sp., Codium sp.). The study recommends including macroalgae-epifauna associations in biodiversity inventories, particularly in marine protected areas, and continuing research on influencing factors (e.g., algal morphology, environmental conditions). Mass strandings of Sargassum spp. and Ulva spp. can cause mortality in marine larvae and eggs, leading to a local reduction in recruitment. Future research integrating these conclusions could allow a more detailed analysis of the epifauna on macroalgae. Ecosystem approach is essential to strike a balance between economic development and biodiversity conservation. specialized ATLANTIQUE CAP VERT DAKAR SENEGAL 034 074 021 18 3 133 [16 ] 2026 1424-2818 https://www.documentation.ird.fr/hor/fdi:010096819 10.3390/d18030133 1424-2818 [F B010096819] https://www.documentation.ird.fr/hor/fdi:010096819 IRD - Base Horizon / Pleins textes 2026-04-07 2026-04-07 fdi:010096819 fre