1151
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Nel JL, Le Maitre DC, Nel DC, Reyers B, Archibald S, van Wilgen BW, Forsyth GG, Theron AK, O’Farrell PJ, Kahinda JMM, Engelbrecht FA, Kapangaziwiri E, van Niekerk L, Barwell L. Natural hazards in a changing world: a case for ecosystem-based management. PLoS One 2014; 9:e95942. [PMID: 24806527 PMCID: PMC4012988 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Communities worldwide are increasingly affected by natural hazards such as floods, droughts, wildfires and storm-waves. However, the causes of these increases remain underexplored, often attributed to climate changes or changes in the patterns of human exposure. This paper aims to quantify the effect of climate change, as well as land cover change, on a suite of natural hazards. Changes to four natural hazards (floods, droughts, wildfires and storm-waves) were investigated through scenario-based models using land cover and climate change drivers as inputs. Findings showed that human-induced land cover changes are likely to increase natural hazards, in some cases quite substantially. Of the drivers explored, the uncontrolled spread of invasive alien trees was estimated to halve the monthly flows experienced during extremely dry periods, and also to double fire intensities. Changes to plantation forestry management shifted the 1∶100 year flood event to a 1∶80 year return period in the most extreme scenario. Severe 1∶100 year storm-waves were estimated to occur on an annual basis with only modest human-induced coastal hardening, predominantly from removal of coastal foredunes and infrastructure development. This study suggests that through appropriate land use management (e.g. clearing invasive alien trees, re-vegetating clear-felled forests, and restoring coastal foredunes), it would be possible to reduce the impacts of natural hazards to a large degree. It also highlights the value of intact and well-managed landscapes and their role in reducing the probabilities and impacts of extreme climate events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne L. Nel
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - David C. Le Maitre
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Deon C. Nel
- World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Belinda Reyers
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Sally Archibald
- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Brian W. van Wilgen
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
- Centre for Invasion Biology, Department of Botany and Zoology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Greg G. Forsyth
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Andre K. Theron
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Patrick J. O’Farrell
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Jean-Marc Mwenge Kahinda
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Francois A. Engelbrecht
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Evison Kapangaziwiri
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Lara van Niekerk
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Laurie Barwell
- Natural Resources and the Environment, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
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1152
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Smith SDA, Edgar RJ. Documenting the density of subtidal marine debris across multiple marine and coastal habitats. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94593. [PMID: 24743690 PMCID: PMC3990570 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine debris is recognised globally as a key threatening process to marine life, but efforts to address the issue are hampered by the lack of data for many marine habitats. By developing standardised protocols and providing training in their application, we worked with >300 volunteer divers from 11 underwater research groups to document the scale of the subtidal marine debris problem at 120 sites across >1000 km of the coast of NSW, Australia. Sampling consisted of replicated 25×5 m transects in which all debris was identified, counted, and, where appropriate, removed. Sites ranged from estuarine settings adjacent to major population centres, to offshore islands within marine parks. Estuaries and embayments were consistently found to be the most contaminated habitats. Fishing-related items (and especially monofilament and braided fishing line) were most prevalent at the majority of sites, although food and drink items were important contributors at sites adjacent to population centres. The results identified damaging interactions between marine debris and marine biota at some key locations, highlighting the need for management intervention to ensure habitat sustainability. This study reinforces the important contribution that volunteers can make to assessing conservation issues requiring broad-scale data collection. In this case, citizen scientists delivered data that will inform, and help to prioritise, management approaches at both statewide and local scales. These initial data also provide an important baseline for longer-term, volunteer-based monitoring programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen D. A. Smith
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Robert J. Edgar
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia
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1153
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A non-native prey mediates the effects of a shared predator on an ecosystem service. PLoS One 2014; 9:e93969. [PMID: 24718023 PMCID: PMC3981723 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0093969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-native species can alter ecosystem functions performed by native species often by displacing influential native species. However, little is known about how ecosystem functions may be modified by trait-mediated indirect effects of non-native species. Oysters and other reef-associated filter feeders enhance water quality by controlling nutrients and contaminants in many estuarine environments. However, this ecosystem service may be mitigated by predation, competition, or other species interactions, especially when such interactions involve non-native species that share little evolutionary history. We assessed trophic and other interference effects on the critical ecosystem service of water filtration in mesocosm experiments. In single-species trials, typical field densities of oysters (Crassostrea virginica) reduced water-column chlorophyll a more strongly than clams (Mercenaria mercenaria). The non-native filter-feeding reef crab Petrolisthes armatus did not draw down chlorophyll a. In multi-species treatments, oysters and clams combined additively to influence chlorophyll a drawdown. Petrolisthes did not affect net filtration when added to the bivalve-only treatments. Addition of the predatory mud crab Panopeus herbstii did not influence oyster feeding rates, but it did stop chlorophyll a drawdown by clams. However, when Petrolisthes was also added in with the clams, the clams filtered at their previously unadulterated rates, possibly because Petrolisthes drew the focus of predators or habituated the clams to crab stimuli. In sum, oysters were the most influential filter feeder, and neither predators nor competitors interfered with their net effect on water-column chlorophyll. In contrast, clams filtered less, but were more sensitive to predators as well as a facilitative buffering effect of Petrolisthes, illustrating that non-native species can indirectly affect an ecosystem service by aiding the performance of a native species.
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1154
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Zhou Y, Liu P, Liu B, Liu X, Zhang X, Wang F, Yang H. Restoring eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) habitats using a simple and effective transplanting technique. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92982. [PMID: 24695414 PMCID: PMC3973628 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Eelgrass beds in coastal waters of China have declined substantially over the past 30 years. In this study, a simple new transplanting technique was developed for eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) restoration. To assist in anchoring single shoots, several rhizomes of rooted shoots were bound to a small elongate stone (50-150 g) with biodegradable thread (cotton or hemp), and then the bound packet was buried at an angle in the sediments at a depth of 2-4 cm. This stone anchoring method was used to transplant eelgrass in early November 2009 and late May 2010 in Huiquan Bay, Qingdao. The method led to high success. Three month survivorship of the transplanted shoots at the two transplant sites was >95%. From April 20 to November 19, 2012, the following characteristics of the 2009 and 2010 transplanted eelgrass beds were monitored: morphological changes, shoot density, shoot height, leaf biomass, and sediment particle size. Results showed that the sexual reproduction period of the planted eelgrass was from April to August, and vegetative reproduction reached its peak in autumn. Maximum shoot height and biomass were observed in June and July. After becoming established, the transplanted eelgrass beds were statistically equal to natural eelgrass beds nearby in terms of shoot height, biomass, and seasonal variations. This indicates that the transplant technique is effective for eelgrass restoration in coastal waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Peng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Bingjian Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xujia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
- Guangxi Institute of Oceanology, Key Laboratory of Marine Biological technology, Beihai, P. R. China
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Feng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Hongsheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
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1155
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Coverdale TC, Brisson CP, Young EW, Yin SF, Donnelly JP, Bertness MD. Indirect human impacts reverse centuries of carbon sequestration and salt marsh accretion. PLoS One 2014; 9:e93296. [PMID: 24675669 PMCID: PMC3968132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0093296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct and indirect human impacts on coastal ecosystems have increased over the last several centuries, leading to unprecedented degradation of coastal habitats and loss of ecological services. Here we document a two-century temporal disparity between salt marsh accretion and subsequent loss to indirect human impacts. Field surveys, manipulative experiments and GIS analyses reveal that crab burrowing weakens the marsh peat base and facilitates further burrowing, leading to bank calving, disruption of marsh accretion, and a loss of over two centuries of sequestered carbon from the marsh edge in only three decades. Analogous temporal disparities exist in other systems and are a largely unrecognized obstacle in attaining sustainable ecosystem services in an increasingly human impacted world. In light of the growing threat of indirect impacts worldwide and despite uncertainties in the fate of lost carbon, we suggest that estimates of carbon emissions based only on direct human impacts may significantly underestimate total anthropogenic carbon emissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler C. Coverdale
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Caitlin P. Brisson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Eric W. Young
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Stephanie F. Yin
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey P. Donnelly
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Mark D. Bertness
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
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1156
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Bertness MD, Brisson CP, Bevil MC, Crotty SM. Herbivory drives the spread of salt marsh die-off. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92916. [PMID: 24651837 PMCID: PMC3961439 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Salt marsh die-off is a Western Atlantic conservation problem that has recently spread into Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, USA. It has been hypothesized to be driven by: 1) eutrophication decreasing plant investment into belowground biomass causing plant collapse, 2) boat wakes eroding creek banks, 3) pollution or disease affecting plant health, 4) substrate hardness controlling herbivorous crab distributions and 5) trophic dysfunction releasing herbivorous crabs from predator control. To distinguish between these hypotheses we quantified these variables at 14 Narragansett Bay salt marshes where die-off intensity ranged from <5% to nearly 98%. Nitrogen availability, wave intensity and plant growth did not explain any variation in die-off. Herbivory explained 73% of inter-site variation in die-off and predator control of herbivores and substrate hardness also varied significantly with die-off. This suggests that salt marsh die-off is being largely driven by intense herbivory via the release of herbivorous crabs from predator control. Our results and those from other marsh systems suggest that consumer control may not simply be a factor to consider in marsh conservation, but with widespread predator depletion impacting near shore habitats globally, trophic dysfunction and runaway consumption may be the largest and most urgent management challenge for salt marsh conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark D. Bertness
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Caitlin P. Brisson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Matthew C. Bevil
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Sinead M. Crotty
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
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1157
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López-Hoffman L, Wiederholt R, Sansone C, Bagstad KJ, Cryan P, Diffendorfer JE, Goldstein J, LaSharr K, Loomis J, McCracken G, Medellín RA, Russell A, Semmens D. Market forces and technological substitutes cause fluctuations in the value of bat pest-control services for cotton. PLoS One 2014; 9:e87912. [PMID: 24498400 PMCID: PMC3912186 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0087912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2013] [Accepted: 01/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Critics of the market-based, ecosystem services approach to biodiversity conservation worry that volatile market conditions and technological substitutes will diminish the value of ecosystem services and obviate the “economic benefits” arguments for conservation. To explore the effects of market forces and substitutes on service values, we assessed how the value of the pest-control services provided by Mexican free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis mexicana) to cotton production in the southwestern U.S. has changed over time. We calculated service values each year from 1990 through 2008 by estimating the value of avoided crop damage and the reduced social and private costs of insecticide use in the presence of bats. Over this period, the ecosystem service value declined by 79% ($19.09 million U.S. dollars) due to the introduction and widespread adoption of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) cotton transgenically modified to express its own pesticide, falling global cotton prices and the reduction in the number of hectares in the U.S. planted with cotton. Our results demonstrate that fluctuations in market conditions can cause temporal variation in ecosystem service values even when ecosystem function – in this case bat population numbers – is held constant. Evidence is accumulating, however, of the evolution of pest resistance to Bt cotton, suggesting that the value of bat pest-control services may increase again. This gives rise to an economic option value argument for conserving Mexican free-tailed bat populations. We anticipate that these results will spur discussion about the role of ecosystem services in biodiversity conservation in general, and bat conservation in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura López-Hoffman
- School of Natural Resources & the Environment, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
- Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ruscena Wiederholt
- School of Natural Resources & the Environment, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
- Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Chris Sansone
- Bayer CropScience, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kenneth J. Bagstad
- United States Geological Survey, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Paul Cryan
- United States Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Jay E. Diffendorfer
- United States Geological Survey, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Joshua Goldstein
- Department of Human Dimensions of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Kelsie LaSharr
- School of Natural Resources & the Environment, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
| | - John Loomis
- Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Gary McCracken
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Rodrigo A. Medellín
- Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Distrito Federal, México
| | - Amy Russell
- Department of Biology, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Darius Semmens
- United States Geological Survey, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
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1158
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Sherwood ET, Greening HS. Potential impacts and management implications of climate change on Tampa Bay estuary critical coastal habitats. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2014; 53:401-415. [PMID: 24122098 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-013-0179-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The Tampa Bay estuary is a unique and valued ecosystem that currently thrives between subtropical and temperate climates along Florida's west-central coast. The watershed is considered urbanized (42 % lands developed); however, a suite of critical coastal habitats still persists. Current management efforts are focused toward restoring the historic balance of these habitat types to a benchmark 1950s period. We have modeled the anticipated changes to a suite of habitats within the Tampa Bay estuary using the sea level affecting marshes model under various sea level rise (SLR) scenarios. Modeled changes to the distribution and coverage of mangrove habitats within the estuary are expected to dominate the overall proportions of future critical coastal habitats. Modeled losses in salt marsh, salt barren, and coastal freshwater wetlands by 2100 will significantly affect the progress achieved in "Restoring the Balance" of these habitat types over recent periods. Future land management and acquisition priorities within the Tampa Bay estuary should consider the impending effects of both continued urbanization within the watershed and climate change. This requires the recognition that: (1) the Tampa Bay estuary is trending towards a mangrove-dominated system; (2) the current management paradigm of "Restoring the Balance" may no longer provide realistic, attainable goals; (3) restoration that creates habitat mosaics will prove more resilient in the future; and (4) establishing subtidal and upslope "refugia" may be a future strategy in this urbanized estuary to allow sensitive habitat types (e.g., seagrass and salt barren) to persist under anticipated climate change and SLR impacts.
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1159
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1160
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1161
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Tidal wetland stability in the face of human impacts and sea-level rise. Nature 2013; 504:53-60. [DOI: 10.1038/nature12856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1047] [Impact Index Per Article: 95.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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1162
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Temmerman S, Meire P, Bouma TJ, Herman PMJ, Ysebaert T, De Vriend HJ. Ecosystem-based coastal defence in the face of global change. Nature 2013; 504:79-83. [DOI: 10.1038/nature12859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 874] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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1163
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Silliman BR, McCoy MW, Angelini C, Holt RD, Griffin JN, van de Koppel J. Consumer Fronts, Global Change, and Runaway Collapse in Ecosystems. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ECOLOGY EVOLUTION AND SYSTEMATICS 2013. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ecolsys-110512-135753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian R. Silliman
- Division of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516;
| | - Michael W. McCoy
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27858
| | - Christine Angelini
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611
| | - Robert D. Holt
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611
| | - John N. Griffin
- Department of BioSciences, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Johan van de Koppel
- Spatial Ecology Department, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, 4401 NT Yerseke, The Netherlands
- Community and Conservation Ecology Group, University of Groningen, 9700 AB Groningen, The Netherlands
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1164
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Spalding MD, McIvor AL, Beck MW, Koch EW, Möller I, Reed DJ, Rubinoff P, Spencer T, Tolhurst TJ, Wamsley TV, Wesenbeeck BK, Wolanski E, Woodroffe CD. Coastal Ecosystems: A Critical Element of Risk Reduction. Conserv Lett 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/conl.12074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark D. Spalding
- Global Marine Team The Nature Conservancy and Conservation Science Group Department of Zoology University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1TN UK
| | - Anna L. McIvor
- Cambridge Coastal Research Unit Department of Geography University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1TN UK
- Global Marine Team The Nature Conservancy University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1TN UK
| | - Michael W. Beck
- Global Marine Team The Nature Conservancy University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1TN UK
| | - Evamaria W. Koch
- Horn Point Laboratory University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Cambridge MD 21613 USA
| | - Iris Möller
- Cambridge Coastal Research Unit Department of Geography University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1TN UK
| | - Denise J. Reed
- The Water Institute of the Gulf Baton Rouge LA 70825 USA
| | - Pamela Rubinoff
- Coastal Resources Center University of Rhode Island Narragansett RI 02882 USA
| | - Thomas Spencer
- Cambridge Coastal Research Unit Department of Geography University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1TN UK
| | - Trevor J. Tolhurst
- School of Environmental Sciences University of East Anglia Norwich Norfolk NR4 7TJ UK
| | - Ty V. Wamsley
- Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center Vicksburg MS 39180‐6199 USA
| | | | - Eric Wolanski
- James Cook University Townsville City QLD 4811 Australia
| | - Colin D. Woodroffe
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
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1165
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Yang H, Chu J. Persistence of coastal vegetation in supratidal zones of northern China. PLoS One 2013; 8:e79964. [PMID: 24224026 PMCID: PMC3818275 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Coastal vegetation comprises a number of coastal specialists and terrestrial generalists. It remains unclear how they persist on disturbed and undisturbed coastal conditions. We tested the hypothesis that coastal specialists may be superior to terrestrial generalists on supratidal zones of coasts, but their superiority can be influenced by human disturbances. Eight separate sandy coasts of the Shandong Peninsula were sampled, representing for disturbed and undisturbed sandy coasts. Plants growing on their supratidal zones were surveyed. On this basis, we compared the relative dominances, niche widths, and commonness of all species, and also analyzed species diversities of the coasts. Coastal specialists were found to be more common and widespread on supratidal zones of the sandy coasts than terrestrial generalists haphazardly invading from hinterlands. Coastal specialists exhibited lower Sørensen dissimilarities than terrestrial generalists among the coasts. Tourist trampling seemed more detrimental than pond fishery to coastal vegetation. Relative to terrestrial generalists, coastal specialists responded to human disturbances more deterministically, with steady decreases in species diversities. These evidences verify that coastal specialists are intrinsically superior to terrestrial generalists on supratidal zones of coasts, especially of undisturbed coasts, because their dispersal among coasts adapts well to local storm surge regime. They also validate that human disturbances can depress the superiority of coastal specialists, partly by inducing invasion of terrestrial generalists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxiao Yang
- College of Resources and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Chengyang, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jianmin Chu
- Key Laboratory of Tree Breeding and Cultivation, State Forestry Administration; Research Institute of Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, China
- * E-mail:
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1166
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Fanini L, Zampicinini G, Pafilis E. Beach parties: a case study on recreational human use of the beach and its effects on mobile arthropod fauna. ETHOL ECOL EVOL 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/03949370.2013.821674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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1167
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Kennedy CJ, Cheong SM. Lost ecosystem services as a measure of oil spill damages: a conceptual analysis of the importance of baselines. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2013; 128:43-51. [PMID: 23712057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2013.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Revised: 12/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The assessment and quantification of damages resulting from marine oil spills is typically coordinated by NOAA, and has historically utilized Habitat Equivalency Analysis (HEA) to estimate damages. Resource economists and others have called for the damage assessment process to instead estimate injuries through the valuation of lost ecosystem services. Our conceptual analysis explores ecosystem service valuation from the perspective of "baselines," which are a fundamental component of both primary and compensatory restoration activities. In practice, baselines have been defined in ecological terms, with minimal consideration of the socioeconomic side of ecosystem service provision. We argue that, for the purposes of scaling compensatory restoration, it is more appropriate to characterize baselines in value terms, thereby integrating non-market valuation approaches from the onset of the damage assessment process. Benefits and challenges of this approach are discussed, along with guidelines for practitioners to identify circumstances in which socioeconomic variables are likely to be important for baseline characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris J Kennedy
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, MSN 5F2, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA.
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1168
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Sullivan BK, Sherman TD, Damare VS, Lilje O, Gleason FH. Potential roles of Labyrinthula spp. in global seagrass population declines. FUNGAL ECOL 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.funeco.2013.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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1169
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Guo H, Zhang Y, Lan Z, Pennings SC. Biotic interactions mediate the expansion of black mangrove (Avicennia germinans) into salt marshes under climate change. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2013; 19:2765-2774. [PMID: 23580161 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Many species are expanding their distributions to higher latitudes due to global warming. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these distribution shifts is critical for better understanding the impacts of climate changes. The climate envelope approach is widely used to model and predict species distribution shifts with changing climates. Biotic interactions between species, however, may also influence species distributions, and a better understanding of biotic interactions could improve predictions based solely on climate envelope models. Along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast, USA, subtropical black mangrove (Avicennia germinans) at the northern limit of its distribution grows sympatrically with temperate salt marsh plants in Florida, Louisiana, and Texas. In recent decades, freeze-free winters have led to an expansion of black mangrove into salt marshes. We examined how biotic interactions between black mangrove and salt marsh vegetation along the Texas coast varied across (i) a latitudinal gradient (associated with a winter-temperature gradient); (ii) the elevational gradient within each marsh (which creates different marsh habitats); and (iii) different life history stages of black mangroves (seedlings vs. juvenile trees). Each of these variables affected the strength or nature of biotic interactions between black mangrove and salt marsh vegetation: (i) Salt marsh vegetation facilitated black mangrove seedlings at their high-latitude distribution limit, but inhibited black mangrove seedlings at lower latitudes; (ii) mangroves performed well at intermediate elevations, but grew and survived poorly in high- and low-marsh habitats; and (iii) the effect of salt marsh vegetation on black mangroves switched from negative to neutral as black mangroves grew from seedlings into juvenile trees. These results indicate that the expansion of black mangroves is mediated by complex biotic interactions. A better understanding of the impacts of climate change on ecological communities requires incorporating context-dependent biotic interactions into species range models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Guo
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, TX, USA
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1170
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Hyndes GA, Nagelkerken I, McLeod RJ, Connolly RM, Lavery PS, Vanderklift MA. Mechanisms and ecological role of carbon transfer within coastal seascapes. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2013; 89:232-54. [PMID: 23980752 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Revised: 07/01/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, coastal systems provide some of the most productive habitats, which potentially influence a range of marine and terrestrial ecosystems through the transfer of nutrients and energy. Several reviews have examined aspects of connectivity within coastal seascapes, but the scope of those reviews has been limited to single systems or single vectors. We use the transfer of carbon to examine the processes of connectivity through multiple vectors in multiple ecosystems using four coastal seascapes as case studies. We discuss and compare the main vectors of carbon connecting different ecosystems, and then the natural and human-induced factors that influence the magnitude of effect for those vectors on recipient systems. Vectors of carbon transfer can be grouped into two main categories: detrital particulate organic carbon (POC) and its associated dissolved organic and inorganic carbon (DOC/DIC) that are transported passively; and mobile consumers that transport carbon actively. High proportions of net primary production can be exported over meters to hundreds of kilometers from seagrass beds, algal reefs and mangroves as POC, with its export dependent on wind-generated currents in the first two of these systems and tidal currents for the last. By contrast, saltmarshes export large quantities of DOC through tidal movement, while land run-off plays a critical role in the transport of terrestrial POC and DOC into temperate fjords. Nekton actively transfers carbon across ecosystem boundaries through foraging movements, ontogenetic migrations, or 'trophic relays', into and out of seagrass beds, mangroves or saltmarshes. The magnitude of these vectors is influenced by: the hydrodynamics and geomorphology of the region; the characteristics of the carbon vector, such as their particle size and buoyancy; and for nekton, the extent and frequency of migrations between ecosystems. Through a risk-assessment process, we have identified the most significant human disturbances that affect the integrity of connectivity among ecosystems. Loss of habitat, net primary production (NPP) and overfishing pose the greatest risks to carbon transfer in temperate saltmarsh and tropical estuaries, particularly through their effects on nekton abundance and movement. In comparison, habitat/NPP loss and climate change are likely to be the major risks to carbon transfer in temperate fjords and temperate open coasts through alteration in the amount of POC and/or DOC/DIC being transported. While we have highlighted the importance of these vectors in coastal seascapes, there is limited quantitative data on the effects of these vectors on recipient systems. It is only through quantifying those subsidies that we can effectively incorporate complex interactions into the management of the marine environment and its resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn A Hyndes
- Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, School of Natural Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, 6027, Australia
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1171
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Smalling KL, Kuivila KM, Orlando JL, Phillips BM, Anderson BS, Siegler K, Hunt JW, Hamilton M. Environmental fate of fungicides and other current-use pesticides in a central California estuary. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2013; 73:144-53. [PMID: 23790458 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2013.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Revised: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/25/2013] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The current study documents the fate of current-use pesticides in an agriculturally-dominated central California coastal estuary by focusing on the occurrence in water, sediment and tissue of resident aquatic organisms. Three fungicides (azoxystrobin, boscalid, and pyraclostrobin), one herbicide (propyzamide) and two organophosphate insecticides (chlorpyrifos and diazinon) were detected frequently. Dissolved pesticide concentrations in the estuary corresponded to the timing of application while bed sediment pesticide concentrations correlated with the distance from potential sources. Fungicides and insecticides were detected frequently in fish and invertebrates collected near the mouth of the estuary and the contaminant profiles differed from the sediment and water collected. This is the first study to document the occurrence of many current-use pesticides, including fungicides, in tissue. Limited information is available on the uptake, accumulation and effects of current-use pesticides on non-target organisms. Additional data are needed to understand the impacts of pesticides, especially in small agriculturally-dominated estuaries.
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1172
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Coelho FJRC, Rocha RJM, Pires ACC, Ladeiro B, Castanheira JM, Costa R, Almeida A, Cunha A, Lillebø AI, Ribeiro R, Pereira R, Lopes I, Marques C, Moreira-Santos M, Calado R, Cleary DFR, Gomes NCM. Development and validation of an experimental life support system for assessing the effects of global climate change and environmental contamination on estuarine and coastal marine benthic communities. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2013; 19:2584-2595. [PMID: 23616466 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2012] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/14/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
An experimental life support system (ELSS) was constructed to study the interactive effects of multiple stressors on coastal and estuarine benthic communities, specifically perturbations driven by global climate change and anthropogenic environmental contamination. The ELSS allows researchers to control salinity, pH, temperature, ultraviolet radiation (UVR), tidal rhythms and exposure to selected contaminants. Unlike most microcosms previously described, our system enables true independent replication (including randomization). In addition to this, it can be assembled using commercially available materials and equipment, thereby facilitating the replication of identical experimental setups in different geographical locations. Here, we validate the reproducibility and environmental quality of the system by comparing chemical and biological parameters recorded in our ELSS with those prevalent in the natural environment. Water, sediment microbial community and ragworm (the polychaete Hediste diversicolor) samples were obtained from four microcosms after 57 days of operation. In general, average concentrations of dissolved inorganic nutrients (NO3 (-) ; NH4 (+) and PO4 (-3) ) in the water column of the ELSS experimental control units were within the range of concentrations recorded in the natural environment. While some shifts in bacterial community composition were observed between in situ and ELSS sediment samples, the relative abundance of most metabolically active bacterial taxa appeared to be stable. In addition, ELSS operation did not significantly affect survival, oxidative stress and neurological biomarkers of the model organism Hediste diversicolor. The validation data indicate that this system can be used to assess independent or interactive effects of climate change and environmental contamination on benthic communities. Researchers will be able to simulate the effects of these stressors on processes driven by microbial communities, sediment and seawater chemistry and to evaluate potential consequences to sediment toxicity using model organisms such as Hediste diversicolor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J R C Coelho
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
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1173
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Del Vecchio S, Marbà N, Acosta A, Vignolo C, Traveset A. Effects of Posidonia oceanica beach-cast on germination, growth and nutrient uptake of coastal dune plants. PLoS One 2013; 8:e70607. [PMID: 23894678 PMCID: PMC3720909 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0070607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Seagrass meadows play an important role in marine ecosystems. A part of seagrass production is also exported to adjacent coastal terrestrial systems, possibly influencing their functioning. In this work we experimentally analyzed the effect of Posidonia oceanica beach-cast on plant germination, growth, and nutrient uptake of two plant species (Cakile maritima and Elymus farctus) that grow on upper beaches and fore dunes along the Mediterranean coasts. We compared plants growing in simple sand (control) with those growing in a substrate enriched with P. oceanica wrack (treatment) in laboratory. P. oceanica wrack doubled the N substrate pool and kept the substrate humid. Plants growing in the treated substrate grew faster, were twice as large as those growing in the control substrate, while tissues were enriched in N and P (Cakile by the 1.3 fold in N and 2.5 fold in P; Elymus by 1.5 fold in N and 2 fold in P). Our results suggest a positive effect of seagrass litter for the enhancing of dune species, highlighting its role for the conservation of coastal dune ecosystems.
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1174
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Prisco I, Carboni M, Acosta ATR. The fate of threatened coastal dune habitats in Italy under climate change scenarios. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68850. [PMID: 23874787 PMCID: PMC3706318 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Coastal dunes worldwide harbor threatened habitats characterized by high diversity in terms of plant communities. In Italy, recent assessments have highlighted the insufficient state of conservation of these habitats as defined by the EU Habitats Directive. The effects of predicted climate change could have dramatic consequences for coastal environments in the near future. An assessment of the efficacy of protection measures under climate change is thus a priority. Here, we have developed environmental envelope models for the most widespread dune habitats in Italy, following two complementary approaches: an "indirect" plant-species-based one and a simple "direct" one. We analyzed how habitats distribution will be altered under the effects of two climate change scenarios and evaluated if the current Italian network of protected areas will be effective in the future after distribution shifts. While modeling dune habitats with the "direct" approach was unsatisfactory, "indirect" models had a good predictive performance, highlighting the importance of using species' responses to climate change for modeling these habitats. The results showed that habitats closer to the sea may even increase their geographical distribution in the near future. The transition dune habitat is projected to remain stable, although mobile and fixed dune habitats are projected to lose most of their actual geographical distribution, the latter being more sensitive to climate change effects. Gap analysis highlighted that the habitats' distribution is currently adequately covered by protected areas, achieving the conservation target. However, according to predictions, protection level for mobile and fixed dune habitats is predicted to drop drastically under the climate change scenarios which we examined. Our results provide useful insights for setting management priorities and better addressing conservation efforts to preserve these threatened habitats in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Prisco
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Carboni
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
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1175
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Liquete C, Piroddi C, Drakou EG, Gurney L, Katsanevakis S, Charef A, Egoh B. Current status and future prospects for the assessment of marine and coastal ecosystem services: a systematic review. PLoS One 2013; 8:e67737. [PMID: 23844080 PMCID: PMC3701056 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Research on ecosystem services has grown exponentially during the last decade. Most of the studies have focused on assessing and mapping terrestrial ecosystem services highlighting a knowledge gap on marine and coastal ecosystem services (MCES) and an urgent need to assess them. Methodology/Principal Findings We reviewed and summarized existing scientific literature related to MCES with the aim of extracting and classifying indicators used to assess and map them. We found 145 papers that specifically assessed marine and coastal ecosystem services from which we extracted 476 indicators. Food provision, in particular fisheries, was the most extensively analyzed MCES while water purification and coastal protection were the most frequently studied regulating and maintenance services. Also recreation and tourism under the cultural services was relatively well assessed. We highlight knowledge gaps regarding the availability of indicators that measure the capacity, flow or benefit derived from each ecosystem service. The majority of the case studies was found in mangroves and coastal wetlands and was mainly concentrated in Europe and North America. Our systematic review highlighted the need of an improved ecosystem service classification for marine and coastal systems, which is herein proposed with definitions and links to previous classifications. Conclusions/Significance This review summarizes the state of available information related to ecosystem services associated with marine and coastal ecosystems. The cataloging of MCES indicators and the integrated classification of MCES provided in this paper establish a background that can facilitate the planning and integration of future assessments. The final goal is to establish a consistent structure and populate it with information able to support the implementation of biodiversity conservation policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camino Liquete
- Water Resources Unit, Institute for Environment and Sustainability, European Commission - Joint Research Centre, Ispra, Italy.
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1176
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Carollo C, Allee RJ, Yoskowitz DW. Linking the Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard (CMECS) to ecosystem services: an application to the US Gulf of Mexico. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIODIVERSITY SCIENCE, ECOSYSTEM SERVICES & MANAGEMENT 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/21513732.2013.811701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Carollo
- a Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Unit 5869, Corpus Christi , Texas , 78412 , USA
| | - Rebecca J. Allee
- b National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Gulf Coast Services Center, c/o EPA Gulf of Mexico Program, Stennis Space Center , Mississippi , 39529 , USA
| | - David W. Yoskowitz
- a Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Unit 5869, Corpus Christi , Texas , 78412 , USA
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1177
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Reduced calcification and lack of acclimatization by coral colonies growing in areas of persistent natural acidification. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:11044-9. [PMID: 23776217 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1301589110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As the surface ocean equilibrates with rising atmospheric CO2, the pH of surface seawater is decreasing with potentially negative impacts on coral calcification. A critical question is whether corals will be able to adapt or acclimate to these changes in seawater chemistry. We use high precision CT scanning of skeletal cores of Porites astreoides, an important Caribbean reef-building coral, to show that calcification rates decrease significantly along a natural gradient in pH and aragonite saturation (Ωarag). This decrease is accompanied by an increase in skeletal erosion and predation by boring organisms. The degree of sensitivity to reduced Ωarag measured on our field corals is consistent with that exhibited by the same species in laboratory CO2 manipulation experiments. We conclude that the Porites corals at our field site were not able to acclimatize enough to prevent the impacts of local ocean acidification on their skeletal growth and development, despite spending their entire lifespan in low pH, low Ωarag seawater.
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1178
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Luisetti T, Jackson EL, Turner RK. Valuing the European 'coastal blue carbon' storage benefit. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2013; 71:101-106. [PMID: 23623654 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2013.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2012] [Revised: 02/28/2013] [Accepted: 03/17/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
'Blue' carbon ecosystems are important carbon storage providers that are currently not protected by any international mechanism, such as REDD. This study aims to contribute to raising awareness in the political domain about the 'blue' carbon issue. This analysis also provides guidance in terms of how to value stock and flows of ecosystem services adding to the debate begun by the Costanza et al. (1997) paper in Nature. Through scenario analysis we assess how human welfare benefits will be affected by changes in the European coastal blue carbon stock provision. The current extent of European coastal blue carbon has an accounting stock value of about US$180 million. If EU Environmental Protection Directives continue to be implemented and effectively enforced, society will gain an appreciating asset over time. However, a future policy reversal resulting in extensive ecosystem loss could mean economic value losses as high as US$1 billion by 2060.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Luisetti
- Centre for Social and Economic Research on the Global Environment (CSERGE), School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK.
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1179
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Christianen MJA, van Belzen J, Herman PMJ, van Katwijk MM, Lamers LPM, van Leent PJM, Bouma TJ. Low-canopy seagrass beds still provide important coastal protection services. PLoS One 2013; 8:e62413. [PMID: 23723969 PMCID: PMC3665780 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0062413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2012] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most frequently quoted ecosystem services of seagrass meadows is their value for coastal protection. Many studies emphasize the role of above-ground shoots in attenuating waves, enhancing sedimentation and preventing erosion. This raises the question if short-leaved, low density (grazed) seagrass meadows with most of their biomass in belowground tissues can also stabilize sediments. We examined this by combining manipulative field experiments and wave measurements along a typical tropical reef flat where green turtles intensively graze upon the seagrass canopy. We experimentally manipulated wave energy and grazing intensity along a transect perpendicular to the beach, and compared sediment bed level change between vegetated and experimentally created bare plots at three distances from the beach. Our experiments showed that i) even the short-leaved, low-biomass and heavily-grazed seagrass vegetation reduced wave-induced sediment erosion up to threefold, and ii) that erosion was a function of location along the vegetated reef flat. Where other studies stress the importance of the seagrass canopy for shoreline protection, our study on open, low-biomass and heavily grazed seagrass beds strongly suggests that belowground biomass also has a major effect on the immobilization of sediment. These results imply that, compared to shallow unvegetated nearshore reef flats, the presence of a short, low-biomass seagrass meadow maintains a higher bed level, attenuating waves before reaching the beach and hence lowering beach erosion rates. We propose that the sole use of aboveground biomass as a proxy for valuing coastal protection services should be reconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolijn J A Christianen
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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1180
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Wainwright BJ, Arlyza IS, Karl SA. Isolation and characterization of twenty-four polymorphic microsatellite loci for the topical seagrass, Thalassia hemprichii. CONSERV GENET RESOUR 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s12686-013-9937-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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1181
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Isolation and characterization of eighteen polymorphic microsatellite loci for the topical seagrass, Syringodium isoetifolium. CONSERV GENET RESOUR 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s12686-013-9938-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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1182
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Gomes NCM, Manco SC, Pires ACC, Gonçalves SF, Calado R, Cleary DFR, Loureiro S. Richness and composition of sediment bacterial assemblages in an Atlantic port environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2013; 452-453:172-180. [PMID: 23506850 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2013.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Revised: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we assessed the bacterial richness and composition of sediment samples collected in and around the port of Aveiro, on the Atlantic coast of mainland Portugal. Sediment samples were collected in five locations: two within the port harbor, two in port areas along a channel adjacent to the harbor and one in a relatively undisturbed reference location. These areas were characterized as under high, medium and no port activity, respectively. In-depth, barcoded-pyrosequencing analysis indicated that port activity affects the composition and abundance of bacterial communities colonizing surface sediments. Sampling sites under the influence of port activities (channel and harbor) were associated with higher relative abundances of Desulfobacterales and a marked decline in the abundance of Flavobacteriia. In addition, there was a pronounced prevalence of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in the port area that were closely related to hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria (Desulfococcus spp.), antifouling paint (bacterium strain WH6-7) and copper rich sediments (bacterium strain CanalPD16A). Here we provide evidence that specific phylotypes detected have the potential to be used as biomarkers and should be evaluated in future studies as proxies for sediment disturbance associated with port activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Newton C M Gomes
- Departamento de Biologia & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal.
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1183
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Osland MJ, Enwright N, Day RH, Doyle TW. Winter climate change and coastal wetland foundation species: salt marshes vs. mangrove forests in the southeastern United States. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2013; 19:1482-1494. [PMID: 23504931 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 10/31/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
We live in an era of unprecedented ecological change in which ecologists and natural resource managers are increasingly challenged to anticipate and prepare for the ecological effects of future global change. In this study, we investigated the potential effect of winter climate change upon salt marsh and mangrove forest foundation species in the southeastern United States. Our research addresses the following three questions: (1) What is the relationship between winter climate and the presence and abundance of mangrove forests relative to salt marshes; (2) How vulnerable are salt marshes to winter climate change-induced mangrove forest range expansion; and (3) What is the potential future distribution and relative abundance of mangrove forests under alternative winter climate change scenarios? We developed simple winter climate-based models to predict mangrove forest distribution and relative abundance using observed winter temperature data (1970-2000) and mangrove forest and salt marsh habitat data. Our results identify winter climate thresholds for salt marsh-mangrove forest interactions and highlight coastal areas in the southeastern United States (e.g., Texas, Louisiana, and parts of Florida) where relatively small changes in the intensity and frequency of extreme winter events could cause relatively dramatic landscape-scale ecosystem structural and functional change in the form of poleward mangrove forest migration and salt marsh displacement. The ecological implications of these marsh-to-mangrove forest conversions are poorly understood, but would likely include changes for associated fish and wildlife populations and for the supply of some ecosystem goods and services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Osland
- U.S. Geological Survey, National Wetlands Research Center, Lafayette, LA 70506, USA.
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1184
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Wetz MS, Yoskowitz DW. An 'extreme' future for estuaries? Effects of extreme climatic events on estuarine water quality and ecology. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2013; 69:7-18. [PMID: 23474351 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2013.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Revised: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Recent climate observations suggest that extreme climatic events (ECE; droughts, floods, tropical cyclones, heat waves) have increased in frequency and/or intensity in certain world regions, consistent with climate model projections that account for man's influence on the global climate system. A synthesis of existing literature is presented and shows that ECE affect estuarine water quality by altering: (1) the delivery and processing of nutrients and organic matter, (2) physical-chemical properties of estuaries, and (3) ecosystem structure and function. From the standpoint of estuarine scientists and resource managers, a major scientific challenge will be to project the estuarine response to ECE that will co-occur with other important environmental changes (i.e., natural climate variability, global warming, sea level rise, eutrophication), as this will affect the provisioning of important ecosystem services provided by estuaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Wetz
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Dr., Unit 5892, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA.
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1185
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Teuchies J, Singh G, Bervoets L, Meire P. Land use changes and metal mobility: multi-approach study on tidal marsh restoration in a contaminated estuary. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2013; 449:174-183. [PMID: 23425794 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2013.01.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2012] [Revised: 01/06/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Inundation of formerly embanked areas in order to combine flood control and tidal marsh restoration will be applied increasingly. However, areas suitable for the implementation are often found to be contaminated. Re-inundation of metal contaminated soils can have consequences on total metal concentrations as well as metal mobility. In this study, metal mobility in a tidal marsh restoration project was evaluated based on the modified BCR sequential extraction method, concentrations of acid volatile sulfides (AVS) and simultaneously extracted metals (SEM) and metal concentrations in plants. The results obtained from the sequential extraction suggest an increase in metal mobility following inundation due to the reduction of Fe and Mn oxides and the subsequent release of associated metals. However, the differences in results between sequential extraction and [SEM-AVS] may indicate that redistribution of the metals to the mobile fraction can be caused by sample processing. High AVS concentrations in newly deposited sediments in the restored marsh may indicate that the formation of insoluble metal-sulfide complexes will reduce metal mobility on the longer term. Processes following inundation of metal contaminated land are complex and different conditions prevailing in other sites or estuaries can result in different behavior of the trace metals. More in situ research is needed to get a better insight in the risks involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Teuchies
- Department of Biology, Ecosystem Management Research Group, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
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1186
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Seabloom EW, Ruggiero P, Hacker SD, Mull J, Zarnetske P. Invasive grasses, climate change, and exposure to storm-wave overtopping in coastal dune ecosystems. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2013; 19:824-832. [PMID: 23504839 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2012] [Accepted: 09/18/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The world's coastal habitats are critical to human well-being, but are also highly sensitive to human habitat alterations and climate change. In particular, global climate is increasing sea levels and potentially altering storm intensities, which may result in increased risk of flooding in coastal areas. In the Pacific Northwest (USA), coastal dunes that protect the coast from flooding are largely the product of a grass introduced from Europe over a century ago (Ammophila arenaria). An introduced congener (A. breviligulata) is displacing A. arenaria and reducing dune height. Here we quantify the relative exposure to storm-wave induced dune overtopping posed by the A. breviligulata invasion in the face of projected multi-decadal changes in sea level and storm intensity. In our models, altered storm intensity was the largest driver of overtopping extent, however the invasion by A. breviligulata tripled the number of areas vulnerable to overtopping and posed a fourfold larger exposure than sea-level rise over multi-decadal time scales. Our work demonstrates the importance of a transdisciplinary approach that draws on insights from ecology, geomorphology, and civil engineering to assess the vulnerability of ecosystem services in light of global change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Seabloom
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA.
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1187
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Orwig DA, Barker Plotkin AA, Davidson EA, Lux H, Savage KE, Ellison AM. Foundation species loss affects vegetation structure more than ecosystem function in a northeastern USA forest. PeerJ 2013; 1:e41. [PMID: 23638378 PMCID: PMC3629072 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of foundation tree species rapidly alters ecological processes in forested ecosystems. Tsuga canadensis, an hypothesized foundation species of eastern North American forests, is declining throughout much of its range due to infestation by the nonnative insect Adelges tsugae and by removal through pre-emptive salvage logging. In replicate 0.81-ha plots, T. canadensis was cut and removed, or killed in place by girdling to simulate adelgid damage. Control plots included undisturbed hemlock and mid-successional hardwood stands that represent expected forest composition in 50–100 years. Vegetation richness, understory vegetation cover, soil carbon flux, and nitrogen cycling were measured for two years prior to, and five years following, application of experimental treatments. Litterfall and coarse woody debris (CWD), including snags, stumps, and fallen logs and branches, have been measured since treatments were applied. Overstory basal area was reduced 60%–70% in girdled and logged plots. Mean cover and richness did not change in hardwood or hemlock control plots but increased rapidly in girdled and logged plots. Following logging, litterfall immediately decreased then slowly increased, whereas in girdled plots, there was a short pulse of hemlock litterfall as trees died. CWD volume remained relatively constant throughout but was 3–4× higher in logged plots. Logging and girdling resulted in small, short-term changes in ecosystem dynamics due to rapid regrowth of vegetation but in general, interannual variability exceeded differences among treatments. Soil carbon flux in girdled plots showed the strongest response: 35% lower than controls after three years and slowly increasing thereafter. Ammonium availability increased immediately after logging and two years after girdling, due to increased light and soil temperatures and nutrient pulses from leaf-fall and reduced uptake following tree death. The results from this study illuminate ecological processes underlying patterns observed consistently in region-wide studies of adelgid-infested hemlock stands. Mechanisms of T. canadensis loss determine rates, magnitudes, and trajectories of ecological changes in hemlock forests. Logging causes abrupt, large changes in vegetation structure whereas girdling (and by inference, A. tsugae) causes sustained, smaller changes. Ecosystem processes depend more on vegetation cover per se than on species composition. We conclude that the loss of this late-successional foundation species will have long-lasting impacts on forest structure but subtle impacts on ecosystem function.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Orwig
- Harvard University, Harvard Forest , Petersham, MA , USA
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1188
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Mitchell MGE, Bennett EM, Gonzalez A. Linking Landscape Connectivity and Ecosystem Service Provision: Current Knowledge and Research Gaps. Ecosystems 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s10021-013-9647-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 237] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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1189
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Landry CL. Pollinator-mediated competition between two co-flowering Neotropical mangrove species, Avicennia germinans (Avicenniaceae) and Laguncularia racemosa (Combretaceae). ANNALS OF BOTANY 2013; 111:207-14. [PMID: 23235696 PMCID: PMC3555529 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcs265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Three ecological relationships are possible between co-flowering plant species; they may have no effect on one another, compete for pollination services, or facilitate one another by attracting more pollinators to the area. In this study, the pollinator-mediated relationship between two mangrove species with overlapping flowering phenologies was investigated in one south Florida community. METHODS Pollinator observations were recorded between 0900 h and 1700 h during June and July, 2008-2010. Insect visitation rates to Avicennia germinans and Laguncularia racemosa were estimated from 522 observation intervals of 10 min during three phenological time periods, when each species flowered alone and when they co-flowered. The number of timed intervals varied between years due to differences in flowering phenology, from four to 42 for A. germinans and from nine to 94 for L. racemosa. KEY RESULTS Avicennia germinans began flowering first in all years, and insect visitation rates were significantly greater to A. germinans than to L. racemosa (P<0·001). Flowers of both species received visits from bees, wasps, flies and butterflies; Apis mellifera was the most common floral visitor to both species. Visitation rates to L. racemosa increased significantly when A. germinans stopped flowering (P<0·001). However, there was no significant change in visitation rates to A. germinans after L. racemosa began flowering (P=0·628). CONCLUSIONS When they co-flowered, A. germinans outcompeted L. racemosa for pollinators. Laguncularia racemosa hermaphrodites self-pollinate autogamously when not visited by insects, so reduced visitation to L. racemosa flowers reduced the frequency of outcrossing and increased the frequency of selfing. Reduced outcrossing limits male reproductive success in this androdioecious species, which could lead to changes in the breeding system. The degree of overlap in flowering phenologies varied between years, so the effect on the mating and breeding system may differ between years.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Landry
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University, Mansfield, OH 44906, USA.
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1190
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Irving AD, Tanner JE, Gaylard SG. An integrative method for the evaluation, monitoring, and comparison of seagrass habitat structure. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2013; 66:176-184. [PMID: 23154140 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2012.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Revised: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 10/21/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Assessing environmental condition is essential for the management of coasts and their resources, but better management decisions occur when large databases are simplified into more manageable units of information. Here we present the habitat structure index (HSI), which enables rapid assessment and direct comparison of seagrass habitat structure using scores of 0 (poor) to 100 (excellent) based on integrating five habitat variables: area, continuity, proximity, percentage cover, and species identity. Acquiring data to calculate the HSI can be done in situ or from video recordings, and requires relatively simple methodology of belt transects, estimating percentage cover, and basic taxonomy. Spatiotemporal comparisons can usefully identify locations and periods of seagrass habitat change, potentially providing an early warning indicator of habitat damage and decline in environmental quality. Overall, the integrative approach of the HSI represents a step toward simplifying the exchange of environmental information among researchers, coastal managers, and governing bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Irving
- South Australian Research and Development Institute-Aquatic Sciences, PO Box 120, Henley Beach, South Australia 5022, Australia.
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1191
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Passive Recovery of Mediterranean Coastal Dunes Following Limitations to Human Trampling. RESTORATION OF COASTAL DUNES 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-33445-0_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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1192
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Olabarria C, Arenas F, Viejo RM, Gestoso I, Vaz-Pinto F, Incera M, Rubal M, Cacabelos E, Veiga P, Sobrino C. Response of macroalgal assemblages from rockpools to climate change: effects of persistent increase in temperature and CO2. OIKOS 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0706.2012.20825.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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1193
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Lohrer AM, Townsend M, Rodil IF, Hewitt JE, Thrush SF. Detecting shifts in ecosystem functioning: the decoupling of fundamental relationships with increased pollutant stress on sandflats. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2012; 64:2761-2769. [PMID: 23046819 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2012.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/17/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the influence of low level contamination by copper, lead and zinc on the functioning of estuarine sandflat ecosystems by comparing the strength and variability of relationships between benthic macrofauna and fluxes (oxygen and nutrients) at three clean and three mildly contaminated sites. Specifically, as indicators of ecosystem functioning, we examined relationships between bivalve biomass, total benthic respiration and ammonium release, and ammonium uptake and benthic primary production. Furthermore, a small amount of organic matter was added to experimental plots at all sites (35 g/0.2 m²) to evaluate stress-on-stress responses relative to controls. Relationships were strongest at the clean sites (steepest slopes, highest r² values, lowest p-values) and weakest at the mildly contaminated sites and in organically enriched plots. Our results suggest that changes in ecosystem functioning may be occurring at mild (<ERL) levels of pollution that are unlikely to cause widespread mortality of macrofauna.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Lohrer
- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research-NIWA, PO Box 11-115, Hillcrest, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand.
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1194
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Lillebø AI, Cleary DFR, Marques B, Reis A, Lopes da Silva T, Calado R. Ragworm fatty acid profiles reveals habitat and trophic interactions with halophytes and with mercury. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2012; 64:2528-2534. [PMID: 22944176 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2012.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Revised: 08/02/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to assess if ragworm fatty acids (FA) profiles could be used to discriminate their spatial distribution in an historically mercury-contaminated estuarine environment, i.e., if it was possible to differentiate ragworms present in salt marsh sediments surrounding plant roots and rhizomes (rhizosediment) from adjacent unvegetated sediment. Additionally, we also tried to determine if ragworms differed in mercury content and if these values could also be used to identify the habitat they occur in. Results show that, within the same area, ragworms can be distinguished using FA profiles and that in halophyte rhizosediment ragworms display more than twice the levels of alpha-linolenic acid (18:3n-3). The ratio cis-vaccenic/oleic acids (18:1n-7/18:ln-9) in ragworms suggests higher carnivory in unvegetated sediments. Our study indicates that ragworm FA profiles can be used to identify their habitat, their trophic interaction with halophytes and reveal a spatially contrasting feeding behaviour, which also reflects mercury accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Lillebø
- Departmento de Biologia & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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1195
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Grabowski JH, Brumbaugh RD, Conrad RF, Keeler AG, Opaluch JJ, Peterson CH, Piehler MF, Powers SP, Smyth AR. Economic Valuation of Ecosystem Services Provided by Oyster Reefs. Bioscience 2012. [DOI: 10.1525/bio.2012.62.10.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 338] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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1196
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Kirwan ML, Mudd SM. Response of salt-marsh carbon accumulation to climate change. Nature 2012; 489:550-3. [DOI: 10.1038/nature11440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2012] [Accepted: 07/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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1197
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Mossman HL, Davy AJ, Grant A. Does managed coastal realignment create saltmarshes with ‘equivalent biological characteristics’ to natural reference sites? J Appl Ecol 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2664.2012.02198.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah L. Mossman
- School of Environmental Sciences; University of East Anglia; Norwich; NR4 7TJ; UK
| | - Anthony J. Davy
- School of Biological Sciences; University of East Anglia; Norwich; NR4 7TJ; UK
| | - Alastair Grant
- School of Environmental Sciences; University of East Anglia; Norwich; NR4 7TJ; UK
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1198
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Abstract
Tropical marine ecosystems are under mounting anthropogenic pressure from overfishing and habitat destruction, leading to declines in their structure and function on a global scale. Although maintaining connectivity among habitats within a seascape is necessary for preserving population resistance and resilience, quantifying movements of individuals within seascapes remains challenging. Traditional methods of identifying and valuing potential coral reef fish nursery habitats are indirect, often relying on visual surveys of abundance and correlations of size and biomass among habitats. We used compound-specific stable isotope analyses to determine movement patterns of commercially important fish populations within a coral reef seascape. This approach allowed us to quantify the relative contributions of individuals from inshore nurseries to reef populations and identify migration corridors among important habitats. Our results provided direct measurements of remarkable migrations by juvenile snapper of over 30 km, between nurseries and reefs. We also found significant plasticity in juvenile nursery residency. Although a majority of individuals on coastal reefs had used seagrass nurseries as juveniles, many adults on oceanic reefs had settled directly into reef habitats. Moreover, seascape configuration played a critical but heretofore unrecognized role in determining connectivity among habitats. Finally, our approach provides key quantitative data necessary to estimate the value of distinctive habitats to ecosystem services provided by seascapes.
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1199
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Coverdale TC, Altieri AH, Bertness MD. Belowground herbivory increases vulnerability of New England salt marshes to die-off. Ecology 2012; 93:2085-94. [PMID: 23094380 DOI: 10.1890/12-0010.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler C Coverdale
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Box G-W, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, USA.
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1200
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Smith SDA. Marine debris: a proximate threat to marine sustainability in Bootless Bay, Papua New Guinea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2012; 64:1880-1883. [PMID: 22770700 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2012.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Surveys of stranded marine debris around Motupore Island, a small island in Bootless Bay, Papua New Guinea, revealed exceptionally high loads (up to 78.3 items m(-2)), with major concentrations in mangrove-dominated, depositional areas. The worst affected, 50-m stretch of shore was estimated to contain >37.000 items with a combined weight of 889 kg. Consistent with studies elsewhere, plastics comprised by far the majority of debris across all sites (89.7%). The lack of centralised waste collection and limited village-based resources, coupled with an increasing population, suggests that this issue is a long way from solution. High debris loads thwart attempts to rehabilitate depleted mangrove forests through smothering of seedlings, perpetuating run-off and water quality issues in the bay. Addressing marine debris is thus of fundamental importance for the sustainability of Bootless Bay and its resources, and a critical step in promoting ecosystem resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen D A Smith
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, P.O. Box 4321, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales 2450, Australia.
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