Hutchings et al., 2007:

"Species that depend on coral reef substrate will have reduced success with loss of coral communities and increased rates of bioerosion, leading to reduction of available reef substrates (Hoegh-Guldberg et al. chapter 10, Fabricius et al. chapter 17). In contrast, faunas associated with soft bottoms, including those in inter-reef/shelf habitats or small coral isolates, will primarily be affected by changes in temperature and may be able to survive either by moving into deeper, cooler water or into higher latitudes. Intertidal communities, including coastal/estuarine communities, will be impacted by physical loss of habitat in some areas as a result of sea level rise and more frequent storm events, but perhaps also with expansion of habitat in other areas (Sheaves et al. chapter 19). Communities will be impacted by increased air and ocean temperatures, as well as changes in rainfall patterns."

Figure 11.3: Main climate change drivers that may affect benthic invertebrates living on reefs