epifaunal
/ɛpɪˈfɔːnəl/Definitions
1. adjective
relating to or living on the surface of a substrate, especially a rock or reef.
“The epifaunal creatures in the coral reef were abundant and diverse.”
2. noun
organisms that live on the surface of a substrate, especially a rock or reef.
“The epifaunal community was studied to understand the ecological balance of the reef.”