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Raghavan R, Sundar RL, Arjun C, Britz R, Dahanukar N. Evolution in the dark: Unexpected genetic diversity and morphological stasis in the blind, aquifer-dwelling catfish Horaglanis. VERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.3897/vz.73.e98367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The lateritic aquifers of the southern Indian state of Kerala harbour a unique assemblage of enigmatic stygobitic fishes which are encountered very rarely, only when they surface during the digging and cleaning of homestead wells. Here, we focus on one of the most unusual members of this group, the catfish Horaglanis, a genus of rarely-collected, tiny, blind, pigment less, and strictly aquifer-residing species. A six-year exploratory and citizen-science backed survey supported by molecular phylogenetic analysis reveals novel insights into the diversity, distribution and population structure of Horaglanis. The genus is characterized by high levels of intraspecific and interspecific genetic divergence, with phylogenetically distinct species recovered above a 7.0% genetic-distance threshold in the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 gene. Contrasting with this deep genetic divergence, however, is a remarkable stasis in external morphology. We identify and describe a new cryptic species, Horaglanis populi, a lineage that is the sister group of all currently known species. All four species are represented by multiple haplotypes. Mismatch distribution reveals that populations have not experienced recent expansions.
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Chiarabba C, De Gori P, Valoroso L, Petitta M, Carminati E. Large extensional earthquakes push-up terrific amount of fluids. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14597. [PMID: 36028518 PMCID: PMC9418187 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18688-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
How large earthquakes are triggered is a key question in Earth science, and the role played by fluid pressure seems to be crucial. Nevertheless, evaluation of involved fluid volumes is seldom investigated, if not unaccounted for. Moreover, fluid flow along fault zones is a driving factor for seismicity migration, episodic heat and chemical transport. Here we show that time repeated (4D) seismic tomography resolves changes of Vp and Vp/Vs during the Mw6.2 2009 L’Aquila normal faulting sequence, that indicate a post-failure fluid migration from hypocentral depths to the surface, with a volume estimated between 5 and 100 × 106 m3 rising at rates up to 100 m/day. This amount inferred by tomograms is surprisingly consistent with the about 50 × 106 m3 surplus water volume additionally measured at spring discharge, spread in time and space along the 700 km2-wide regional carbonate fractured aquifer. Fluids were pushed-up within a huge volume across the fault and expelled from the area of large coseismic slip. Such quantities of fluids liberated during earthquakes add unprecedented constraints to the discussion on the role of fluids during and possibly before earthquake, as well as to the potential impact on the pristine high-quality drinkable groundwater, possibly affecting the biodiversity of groundwater dependent ecosystems too.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pasquale De Gori
- INGV, Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Valoroso
- INGV, Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Petitta
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Carminati
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Hose GC, Chariton A, Daam MA, Di Lorenzo T, Galassi DMP, Halse SA, Reboleira ASPS, Robertson AL, Schmidt SI, Korbel KL. Invertebrate traits, diversity and the vulnerability of groundwater ecosystems. Funct Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.14125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G. C. Hose
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University NSW 2109 Australia
| | - A. Chariton
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University NSW 2109 Australia
| | - M. A. Daam
- CENSE ‐ Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research NOVA School of Science and Technology NOVA University Lisbon, 2829‐516 Caparica Portugal
| | - T. Di Lorenzo
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems of the National Research Council Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino Firenze Italy
- Emil Racovita Institute of Speleology Romanian Academy, Clinicilor 5, Cluj Napoca 400006 Romania
| | - D. M. P. Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences University of L'Aquila Via Vetoio, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila Italy
| | - S. A. Halse
- Bennelongia Environmental Consultants, Jolimont WA 6014 Australia
| | - A. S. P. S. Reboleira
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa Lisbon Portugal
- Natural History Museum of Life and Health Sciences Denmark and University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 15, 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
| | - A. L. Robertson
- School of Life and Health Sciences University of Roehampton, Holybourne Avenue, London SW15 4JD UK
| | - S. I. Schmidt
- Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences Institute of Hydrobiology Na Sádkách 7, 37005 České Budějovice Czech Republic
- Present address: Department of Lake Research, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Magdeburg Germany
| | - K. L. Korbel
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University NSW 2109 Australia
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Ryu HS, Kim H, Lee JY, Kaown D, Lee KK. Abnormal groundwater levels and microbial communities in the Pohang Enhanced Geothermal System site wells pre- and post-M w 5.5 earthquake in Korea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 810:152305. [PMID: 34906576 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In this study, two geothermal wells (PX-1 and PX-2) exhibiting abnormal groundwater levels and microbial communities were examined at the Enhanced Geothermal System site before and after the Pohang earthquake (November 2017). Furthermore, the EXP-1 well level, water temperature, microbial communities and their association with earthquakes, as well as the possibility of future earthquakes were explored. The primary objectives of this research were to: (1) perform correlation and cluster analyses of hydrophysical parameters for earthquakes using next-generation sequencing; (2) analyze pre-, co-, and post-seismic changes in groundwater levels, temperatures, and microbial communities; and (3) further assess the analyzed results of the post-earthquake changes in the groundwater levels and temperatures to interpret their implications. Although the pre-earthquake water levels in the three wells were unknown, their depth-to-water levels post-earthquake ranged from 50.33-98.20 m, 570.91-735.00 m, and 47.70-56.04 m for wells PX-1 (depth 4362 m), PX-2 (4348 m), and EXP-1 (180 m), respectively. In particular, the water levels of PX-2 were abnormally low compared with the surrounding area. Moreover, the geothermal wells demonstrated unstable microbial communities prior to the earthquake. However, while the microbial communities of PX-1 recovered relatively quickly post-earthquake, those of PX-2 failed to stabilize even within two years after the earthquake. Thus, it was inferred here that the PX-2 well is more closely related to seismic activity, the effects of which can still be seen. Accordingly, it is important that PX-2 is continuously monitored until June 2024, the minimum period predicted for the water levels to reach stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Sun Ryu
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Heejung Kim
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jin-Yong Lee
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Dugin Kaown
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Kang-Kun Lee
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
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Linking Hydrogeology and Ecology in Karst Landscapes: The Response of Epigean and Obligate Groundwater Copepods (Crustacea: Copepoda). WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13152106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Groundwater invertebrate communities in karst landscapes are known to vary in response to multiple environmental factors. This study aims to explore the invertebrate assemblages’ composition of an Apennine karst system in Italy mainly described by the Rio Gamberale surface stream and the Stiffe Cave. The stream sinks into the carbonate rock and predominantly feeds the saturated karst into the cave. For a minor portion, groundwater flows from the epikarst and the perched aquifer within it. The spatial distribution of the species belonging to the selected target group of the Crustacea Copepoda between the surface stream and the groundwater habitats inside the cave highlighted a different response of surface-water species and obligate groundwater dwellers to the hydrogeological traits of the karst unit. Our results suggest that fast endorheic infiltration routes promoted the drift of epigean species from the surface to groundwater via the sinking stream while most of the obligate groundwater dwellers come from the perched aquifer in the epikarst from diffuse infiltration pathways.
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Manenti R, Piazza B. Between darkness and light: spring habitats provide new perspectives for modern researchers on groundwater biology. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11711. [PMID: 34395066 PMCID: PMC8320523 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Springs are interfaces between groundwater and surface habitats and may play an important role in the study of subterranean animals. In this systematic evidence review and meta-analysis, we explore whether observations of stygobionts in springs are relevant and more common than observations of epigean animals in groundwater. We searched the Web of Science database for papers on groundwater fauna and spring fauna. For each paper we found, we recorded whether the paper reported the occurrence of typical stygobionts in springs, of surface animals in groundwater, or of the same taxa in both habitats. If so, we recorded how many such species were reported. We also recorded the scientific discipline of each study and the year of publication. Our search yielded 342 papers. A considerable number of these papers reported stygobionts in springs: 20% of papers dealing with groundwater fauna and 16% of papers dealing with spring fauna reported the occurrence of stygobionts in spring habitats. Both the number of papers that mentioned stygobionts in springs, and the number of stygobiont species that were documented in springs, were higher than equivalent measures for the occurrence of surface fauna underground. We also detected a positive relationship between year of publication and the number of reports of stygofauna in springs. To broaden the insights from biological research on underground environments, we suggest that springs should be considered not only as simple sampling points of stygobionts but also as core stygobiont habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoul Manenti
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Lombardia, Italy.,Parco Regionale del Monte Barro, Laboratorio di Biologia Sotterranea "Enrico Pezzoli", Galbiate, Italy
| | - Beatrice Piazza
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
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Di Lorenzo T, Fiasca B, Di Cicco M, Galassi DMP. The impact of nitrate on the groundwater assemblages of European unconsolidated aquifers is likely less severe than expected. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:11518-11527. [PMID: 33128152 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11408-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we analyzed the structure of the stygobiotic copepod assemblages of an unconsolidated European aquifer (VO), in southern Italy, that has been subject to persistent nitrate contamination for over 15 years. To this end, we monitored 25 bores where groundwater was contaminated only by nitrate, and no other chemical pollutants were reported as being above detection limits from 2009 to 2014. We monitored these bores three times, namely in autumn 2014 and in spring and autumn 2015. We expected that the chronic exposure to high nitrate concentrations had a significant and evident impact on the stygobiotic copepod assemblages. Unexpectedly, the assemblages were highly diversified. The stygobiotic species richness (SSR) accounted 17 species, a value that exceeded the European mean value (SSR = 12 species). However, the species density was only 0.6 species/km2, lower than the European mean value (= 1.6 species/km2). Moreover, the juvenile copepods were numerically less abundant than the adults and the biomass-abundance model showed signs of alteration of the structure of the copepod assemblages. This study highlighted that (i) nitrates, even at high concentrations, probably have a less severe impact on groundwater assemblages of unconsolidated aquifers than expected and (ii) the analysis of population traits and biomasses can detect signs of alteration of these assemblages that would, otherwise, not be visible from the analysis of the sole species richness and abundances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Di Lorenzo
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems of the Italian National Research Council (IRET-CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy.
| | - Barbara Fiasca
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Mattia Di Cicco
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Diana Maria Paola Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
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8
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Towards the Understanding of Hydrogeochemical Seismic Responses in Karst Aquifers: A Retrospective Meta-Analysis Focused on the Apennines (Italy). MINERALS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/min10121058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Earthquakes are known to affect groundwater properties, yet the mechanisms causing chemical and physical aquifer changes are still unclear. The Apennines mountain belt in Italy presents a rich literature of case studies documenting hydrogeochemical response to seismicity, due to the high frequency of seismic events and the presence of different regional aquifers in the area. In this study, we synthesize published data from the last 30 years in the Apennine region in order to shed light on the main mechanisms causing earthquake induced water changes. The results suggest the geologic and hydrologic setting specific to a given spring play an important role in spring response, as well as the timing of the observed response. In contrast to setting, the main focal mechanisms of earthquake and the distance between epicenter and the analyzed springs seems to present a minor role in defining the response. The analysis of different response variables, moreover, indicates that an important driver of change is the degassing of CO2, especially in thermal springs, whereas a rapid increase in solute concentration due to permeability enhancement is observable in different cold and shallow springs. These findings also leave open the debate regarding whether earthquake precursors can be recognized beyond site-specific responses. Such responses can be understood more comprehensively through the establishment of a regional long-term monitoring system and continuous harmonization of data and sampling strategies, achievable in the Apennine region through the set-up of a monitoring network.
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Iannella M, Fiasca B, Di Lorenzo T, Biondi M, Di Cicco M, Galassi DMP. Spatial distribution of stygobitic crustacean harpacticoids at the boundaries of groundwater habitat types in Europe. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19043. [PMID: 33149242 PMCID: PMC7642423 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76018-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The distribution patterns of stygobitic crustacean harpacticoids at the boundaries of three different groundwater habitat types in Europe were analysed through a GIS proximity analysis and fitted to exponential models. The results showed that the highest frequency of occurrences was recorded in aquifers in consolidated rocks, followed by the aquifers in unconsolidated sediments and, finally, by the practically non-aquiferous rocks. The majority of the stygobitic harpacticoid species were not able to disperse across the boundaries between two adjacent habitats, with 66% of the species occurring in a single habitat type. The species were not evenly distributed, and 35–69% of them occurred from 2 to 6 km to the boundaries, depending on the adjacent habitat types. The distribution patterns were shaped by features extrinsic to the species, such as the hydrogeological properties of the aquifers, and by species’ intrinsic characteristics such as the preference for a given habitat type and dispersal abilities. Most boundaries between adjacent habitat types resulted to be “breaches”, that is transmissive borders for stygobitic harpacticoids, while others were “impermeable walls”, that is absorptive borders. Our results suggest that conservation measures of groundwater harpacticoids should consider how species are distributed within the different groundwater habitat types and at their boundaries to ensure the preservation of species metapopulations within habitat patches and beyond them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Iannella
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67010, Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Barbara Fiasca
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67010, Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Biondi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67010, Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Mattia Di Cicco
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67010, Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Diana M P Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67010, Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy.
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Mammola S, Amorim IR, Bichuette ME, Borges PAV, Cheeptham N, Cooper SJB, Culver DC, Deharveng L, Eme D, Ferreira RL, Fišer C, Fišer Ž, Fong DW, Griebler C, Jeffery WR, Jugovic J, Kowalko JE, Lilley TM, Malard F, Manenti R, Martínez A, Meierhofer MB, Niemiller ML, Northup DE, Pellegrini TG, Pipan T, Protas M, Reboleira ASPS, Venarsky MP, Wynne JJ, Zagmajster M, Cardoso P. Fundamental research questions in subterranean biology. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 95:1855-1872. [DOI: 10.1111/brv.12642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Mammola
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS) University of Helsinki Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13 Helsinki 00100 Finland
- Molecular Ecology Group (MEG) Water Research Institute (IRSA), National Research Council (CNR) Corso Tonolli, 50 Pallanza 28922 Italy
| | - Isabel R. Amorim
- cE3c – Centre for Ecology Evolution and Environmental Changes/Azorean Biodiversity Group and Universidade dos Açores, Faculty of Agrarian and Environmental Sciences, Rua Capitão João d'Àvila Pico da Urze Angra do Heroísmo Azores 9700‐042 Portugal
| | - Maria E. Bichuette
- Laboratory of Subterranean Studies Federal University of São Carlos Rodovia Washington Luís km 235 São Carlos São Paulo 13565‐905 Brazil
| | - Paulo A. V. Borges
- cE3c – Centre for Ecology Evolution and Environmental Changes/Azorean Biodiversity Group and Universidade dos Açores, Faculty of Agrarian and Environmental Sciences, Rua Capitão João d'Àvila Pico da Urze Angra do Heroísmo Azores 9700‐042 Portugal
| | - Naowarat Cheeptham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science Thompson Rivers University 805 TRU Way Kamloops British Columbia Canada
| | - Steven J. B. Cooper
- Evolutionary Biology Unit South Australian Museum North Terrace Adelaide South Australia 5000 Australia
- Australian Centre for Evolutionary Biology and Biodiversity, and Environment Institute, School of Biological Sciences University of Adelaide Adelaide South Australia 5005 Australia
| | - David C. Culver
- Department of Environmental Science American University 4400 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington DC 20016 U.S.A
| | - Louis Deharveng
- UMR7205 – ISYEB Museum national d'Histoire naturelle 45 rue Buffon (CP50) Paris 75005 France
| | - David Eme
- IFREMER Centre Atlantique Unité Ecologie et Modèles pour l'Halieutique Rue de l'Île d'Yeu Nantes 44980 France
| | - Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira
- Center of Studies in Subterranean Biology, Biology Department Federal University of Lavras Campus Universitário Lavras Minas Gerais CEP 37202‐553 Brazil
| | - Cene Fišer
- SubBio Lab, Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101, PO BOX 2995 Ljubljana SI‐1000 Slovenia
| | - Žiga Fišer
- SubBio Lab, Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101, PO BOX 2995 Ljubljana SI‐1000 Slovenia
| | - Daniel W. Fong
- Department of Biology American University 4400 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington DC 20016 U.S.A
| | - Christian Griebler
- Department of Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, Division of Limnology University of Vienna Althanstrasse 14 Vienna 1090 Austria
| | - William R. Jeffery
- Department of Biology University of Maryland College Park MD 20742 U.S.A
| | - Jure Jugovic
- Department of Biodiversity, Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies University of Primorska Glagoljaška 8 Koper SI‐6000 Slovenia
| | - Johanna E. Kowalko
- Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College Florida Atlantic University 5353 Parkside Dr Jupiter FL 33458 U.S.A
| | - Thomas M. Lilley
- BatLab Finland, Finnish Museum of Natural History University of Helsinki Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13 Helsinki 00100 Finland
| | - Florian Malard
- UMR5023 Ecologie des Hydrosystèmes Naturels et Anthropisés Univ. Lyon 1, ENTPE, CNRS, Université de Lyon, Bat. Forel 6 rue Raphaël Dubois Villeurbanne cedex 69622 France
| | - Raoul Manenti
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Via Celoria 26 Milan 20113 Italy
| | - Alejandro Martínez
- Molecular Ecology Group (MEG) Water Research Institute (IRSA), National Research Council (CNR) Corso Tonolli, 50 Pallanza 28922 Italy
| | - Melissa B. Meierhofer
- BatLab Finland, Finnish Museum of Natural History University of Helsinki Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13 Helsinki 00100 Finland
- Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management Texas A&M University 534 John Kimbrough Blvd. College Station TX 77843 U.S.A
| | - Matthew L. Niemiller
- Department of Biological Sciences The University of Alabama in Huntsville 301 Sparkman Drive NW Huntsville AL 35899 U.S.A
| | - Diana E. Northup
- Department of Biology University of New Mexico Albuquerque NM 87131‐0001 U.S.A
| | - Thais G. Pellegrini
- Center of Studies in Subterranean Biology, Biology Department Federal University of Lavras Campus Universitário Lavras Minas Gerais CEP 37202‐553 Brazil
| | - Tanja Pipan
- ZRC SAZU Karst Research Institute Novi trg 2 Ljubljana SI‐1000 Slovenia
- UNESCO Chair on Karst Education University of Nova Gorica Vipavska cesta Nova Gorica 5000 Slovenia
| | - Meredith Protas
- Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Domenicas University of California 50 Acacia Avenue San Rafael CA 94901 U.S.A
| | - Ana Sofia P. S. Reboleira
- Natural History Museum of Denmark University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 15 Copenhagen 2100 Denmark
| | - Michael P. Venarsky
- Australian Rivers Institute Griffith University 170 Kessels Road Nathan Queensland 4111 Australia
| | - J. Judson Wynne
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Adaptable Western Landscapes Northern Arizona University Box 5640 Flagstaff AZ 86011 U.S.A
| | - Maja Zagmajster
- SubBio Lab, Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101, PO BOX 2995 Ljubljana SI‐1000 Slovenia
| | - Pedro Cardoso
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS) University of Helsinki Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13 Helsinki 00100 Finland
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11
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The Ecosystem Resilience Concept Applied to Hydrogeological Systems: A General Approach. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12061824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
We have witnessed the great changes that hydrogeological systems are facing in the last decades: rivers that have dried up; wetlands that have disappeared, leaving their buckets converted into farmland; and aquifers that have been intensively exploited for years, among others. Humans have caused the most part of these results that can be worsened by climate change, with delayed effects on groundwater quantity and quality. The consequences are negatively impacting ecosystems and dependent societies. The concept of resilience has not been extensively used in the hydrogeological research, and it can be a very useful concept that can improve the understanding and management of these systems. The aim of this work is to briefly discuss the role of resilience in the context of freshwater systems affected by either climate or anthropic actions as a way to increase our understanding of how anticipating negative changes (transitions) may contribute to improving the management of the system and preserving the services that it provides. First, the article presents the basic concepts applied to hydrogeological systems from the ecosystem’s resilience approach. Second, the factors controlling for hydrogeological systems’ responses to different impacts are commented upon. Third, a case study is analyzed and discussed. Finally, the useful implications of the concept are discussed.
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12
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Earthquake-Induced Spring Discharge Modifications: The Pescara di Arquata Spring Reaction to the August–October 2016 Central Italy Earthquakes. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12030767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Co-seismic changes in groundwater regime are often observed after moderate to strong earthquakes. The 24 August 2016 Mw 6.0 extensional Amatrice earthquake, which was the first event of a long-lasting seismic sequence, including the 30 October 2016 Mw 6.5 Norcia event, triggered a significant discharge alteration to the Pescara di Arquata spring, located in the Umbria-Marche Apennines (Northern Apennines, Central Italy) and exploited for drinking purposes. During the first five months after the first mainshock, an extra flow of about 30% was recorded, while both water chemistry and temperature did not show significant changes. Thereafter, the spring discharge decreased significantly, and at the end of 2019 it was still lower than normal. The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) indicates that these low mean monthly discharge values are not related to particularly dry conditions. The increase in post-seismic depletion coefficients indicates that the aquifer empties faster than it did during the inter-seismic period. The observed transient increase and subsequent decrease of discharge are consistent with a transient, earthquake-related increase in hydraulic conductivity.
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13
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Characteristics, Main Impacts, and Stewardship of Natural and Artificial Freshwater Environments: Consequences for Biodiversity Conservation. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12010260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In this overview (introductory article to a special issue including 14 papers), we consider all main types of natural and artificial inland freshwater habitas (fwh). For each type, we identify the main biodiversity patterns and ecological features, human impacts on the system and environmental issues, and discuss ways to use this information to improve stewardship. Examples of selected key biodiversity/ecological features (habitat type): narrow endemics, sensitive (groundwater and GDEs); crenobionts, LIHRes (springs); unidirectional flow, nutrient spiraling (streams); naturally turbid, floodplains, large-bodied species (large rivers); depth-variation in benthic communities (lakes); endemism and diversity (ancient lakes); threatened, sensitive species (oxbow lakes, SWE); diverse, reduced littoral (reservoirs); cold-adapted species (Boreal and Arctic fwh); endemism, depauperate (Antarctic fwh); flood pulse, intermittent wetlands, biggest river basins (tropical fwh); variable hydrologic regime—periods of drying, flash floods (arid-climate fwh). Selected impacts: eutrophication and other pollution, hydrologic modifications, overexploitation, habitat destruction, invasive species, salinization. Climate change is a threat multiplier, and it is important to quantify resistance, resilience, and recovery to assess the strategic role of the different types of freshwater ecosystems and their value for biodiversity conservation. Effective conservation solutions are dependent on an understanding of connectivity between different freshwater ecosystems (including related terrestrial, coastal and marine systems).
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14
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Nair P, Huertas M, Nowlin WH. Metabolic responses to long-term food deprivation in subterranean and surface amphipods. SUBTERRANEAN BIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.33.48483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A long-standing hypothesis in subterranean biology posits that organisms living in poor resource subsurface habitats can withstand long periods of bioenergetic shortages due to an innate reduced metabolic rate when compared to their epigean counterparts. However, previous studies have proposed that caves with ample energy resources may not evolve organisms with reduced metabolic rate. The equivocal nature of previous findings suggests that there is a need to compare food deprivation responses of subterranean and surface species in order to elucidate whether there are widespread adaptations to low energy systems in subterranean taxa. The purpose of the study was to examine patterns in basal metabolism and the effects of food deprivation in closely related subterranean- and epigean- amphipods,Stygobromus peckiandSynurellasp. from central and east Texas, USA, respectively. Basal metabolic rates (measured as O2consumption) differed between species, withS. peckihaving substantially lower rates thanSynurella. Individuals of both species were food deprived for a pre-determined time interval and changes in total body protein, lipids, and carbohydrates were measured throughout food deprivation experiments.Stygobromus peckihad larger initial energy stores thanSynurellaand were more conservative in the use of energetic reserves over a prolonged period of food deprivation. Thus, it appears that althoughS. peckiare currently found in shallow phreatic and spring opening environments, they have maintained more efficient metabolic adaptations to deal with prolonged periods of food deprivation.
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Di Lorenzo T, Di Cicco M, Di Censo D, Galante A, Boscaro F, Messana G, Paola Galassi DM. Environmental risk assessment of propranolol in the groundwater bodies of Europe. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 255:113189. [PMID: 31542673 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A growing concern for contamination due to pharmaceutical compounds in groundwater is expanding globally. The β-blocker propranolol is a β-adrenoceptors antagonist commonly detected in European groundwater bodies. The effect of propranolol on stygobiotic species (obligate groundwater dweller species) is compelling in the framework of environmental risk assessment (ERA) of groundwater ecosystems. In fact, in Europe, ERA procedures for pharmaceuticals in groundwater are based on data obtained with surrogate surface water species. The use of surrogates has aroused some concern in the scientific arena since the first ERA guideline for groundwater was issued. We performed an ecotoxicological and a behavioural experiment with the stygobiotic crustacean species Diacyclops belgicus (Copepopda) to estimate a realistic value of the Predicted No Effect Concentration (PNEC) of propranolol for groundwater ecosystems and we compared this value with the PNEC estimated based on EU ERA procedures. The results of this study showed that i) presently, propranolol does not pose a risk to groundwater bodies in Europe at the concentrations shown in this study and ii) the PNEC of propranolol estimated through the EU ERA procedures is very conservative and allows to adequately protect these delicate ecosystems and their dwelling fauna. The methodological approach and the results of this study represent a first contribution to the improvement of ERA of groundwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Di Lorenzo
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET-CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
| | - Mattia Di Cicco
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, 10 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Davide Di Censo
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, 10 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Angelo Galante
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, 10 L'Aquila, Italy; Institute for superconductors, oxides and other innovative materials and devices, National Research Council (CNR-SPIN), Via Vetoio 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN), Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso, Assergi, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesca Boscaro
- Mass Spectrometry Center, University of Florence, Via U. Schiff 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Messana
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET-CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Diana Maria Paola Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, 10 L'Aquila, Italy
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Marble Slurry’s Impact on Groundwater: The Case Study of the Apuan Alps Karst Aquifers. WATER 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/w11122462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Modern sawing techniques employed in ornamental stones’ exploitation produce large amounts of slurry that can be potentially diffused into the environment by runoff water. Slurry produced by limestone and marble quarrying can impact local karst aquifers, negatively affecting the groundwater quality and generating a remarkable environmental and economic damage. A very representative case-study is that of the Apuan Alps (north-western Tuscany, Italy) because of the intensive marble quarrying activity. The Apuan Alps region extends over about 650 km2; it hosts several quarries, known all over the world for the quality of the marble extracted, and a karst aquifer producing about 70,000 m3/day of high-quality water used directly for domestic purposes almost without treatments. In addition, Apuan Alps are an extraordinary area of natural and cultural heritage hosting many caves (about 1200), karst springs and geosites of international and national interest. During intense rain events, carbonate slurry systematically reaches the karst springs, making them temporarily unsuitable for domestic uses. In addition, the deterioration of the water quality threatens all the hypogean fauna living in the caves. This paper provides preliminary insights of the hydrological and biological indicators that can offer information about the impact of the marble quarrying activities on groundwater resources, karst habitats and their biodiversity.
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Di Lorenzo T, Di Marzio WD, Fiasca B, Galassi DMP, Korbel K, Iepure S, Pereira JL, Reboleira ASPS, Schmidt SI, Hose GC. Recommendations for ecotoxicity testing with stygobiotic species in the framework of groundwater environmental risk assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 681:292-304. [PMID: 31103666 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
As a consequence of the growing global dependence on groundwater resources, environmental risk assessments (ERA) for groundwater are increasingly required and, with that, ecotoxicological studies with groundwater fauna (stygofauna). However, the literature on the ecotoxicological studies with stygobiotic species (i.e. species that complete their life cycle exclusively in groundwater) has not expanded significantly since the first paper published in this field. The limitations regarding the use of stygobiotic species for ecotoxicological testing are clear and consistent across the globe; stygobiotic species are often 1) naturally present in low numbers, 2) difficult to collect, and 3) difficult to culture under laboratory conditions. This paper reviews the methods used in ecotoxicological studies performed with stygobiotic species, and provides ten recommendations for Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) for such tests. The recommendations focused on the following 10 points: 1) the taxonomic identification, the life stage/size and gender of the test organisms; 2) collection methodology of the organisms, including collection location, conditions and methods; 3) holding and acclimation conditions in the laboratory; 4) exposure conditions such as test set up and exposure time, number of replicates and densities of organisms in tests and in test vessels; 5) range-finding test set up and schedule; 6) final test design, including details of controls and treatments, and replication options; 7) incubation conditions, specifying temperature, pH and oxygenation levels throughout the test; 8) test duration; 9) observations and endpoints; 10) test validity criteria and compliance. The recommendations were developed for the purpose of supporting future short-term ecotoxicological testing with stygofauna through providing consistency in the protocols. A discussion of the potential implications for groundwater managers and decision-makers committed to ERA for groundwater is included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Di Lorenzo
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET-CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
| | - Walter Dario Di Marzio
- Programa de Investigación en Ecotoxicología, Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Nacional de Luján - Comisión Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas CONICET, Argentina
| | - Barbara Fiasca
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Diana Maria Paola Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Kathryn Korbel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW 2019, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sanda Iepure
- Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, José Beltrán 15 Martínez, 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain; University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Biology, Department of Genetics and Biosystematics, Wita Stwosza 59, 17 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joana Luísa Pereira
- Department of Biology & CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marines Studies, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia P S Reboleira
- Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susanne I Schmidt
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Biology Centre of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Na Sádkách 7, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Grant C Hose
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW 2019, Sydney, Australia
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Saccò M, Blyth A, Bateman PW, Hua Q, Mazumder D, White N, Humphreys WF, Laini A, Griebler C, Grice K. New light in the dark - a proposed multidisciplinary framework for studying functional ecology of groundwater fauna. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 662:963-977. [PMID: 30795483 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.01.296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Groundwaters provide the vast majority of unfrozen freshwater resources on the planet, but our knowledge of subsurface ecosystems is surprisingly limited. Stygofauna, or stygobionts -subterranean obligate aquatic animals - provide ecosystem services such as grazing biofilms and maintaining water quality, but we know little about how their ecosystems function. The cryptic nature of groundwaters, together with the high degree of local endemism and stygofaunal site-specific adaptations, represent major obstacles for the field. To overcome these challenges, and integrate biodiversity and ecosystem function, requires a holistic design drawing on classical ecology, taxonomy, molecular ecology and geochemistry. This study presents an approach based on the integration of existing concepts in groundwater ecology with three more novel scientific techniques: compound specific stable isotope analysis (CSIA) of amino acids, radiocarbon analysis (14C) and DNA analyses of environmental samples, stygofauna and gut contents. The combination of these techniques allows elucidation of aspects of ecosystem function that are often obscured in small invertebrates and cryptic systems. Carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) CSIA provides a linkage between biogeochemical patterns and ecological dynamics. It allows the identification of stygofaunal food web structures and energy flows based on the metabolic pathway of specific amino groups. Concurrently, 14C provides complementary data on the carbon recycling and incorporation within the stygobiotic trophic webs. Changes in groundwater environmental conditions (e.g. aquifer recharge), and subsequent community adaptations, can be pinpointed via the measurementof the radiocarbon fingerprint of water, sediment and specimens. DNA analyses are a rapidly expanding approach in ecology. eDNA is mainly employed as a biomonitoring tool, while metabarcoding of individuals and/or gut contents provides insight into diet regimes. In all cases, the application of the approaches in combination provides more powerful data than any one alone. By combining quantitative (CSIA and 14C) and qualitative (eDNA and DNA metabarcoding) approaches via Bayesian Mixing Models (BMM), linkages can be made between community composition, energy and nutrient sources in the system, and trophic function. This suggested multidisciplinary design will contribute to a more thorough comprehension of the biogeochemical and ecological patterns within these undervalued but essential ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Saccò
- WA-Organic Isotope Geochemistry Centre, The Institute for Geoscience Research, School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, WA, Australia.
| | - Alison Blyth
- WA-Organic Isotope Geochemistry Centre, The Institute for Geoscience Research, School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, WA, Australia
| | - Philip W Bateman
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, WA, Australia
| | - Quan Hua
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia
| | - Debashish Mazumder
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia
| | - Nicole White
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, WA, Australia
| | - William F Humphreys
- Collections and Research Centre, Western Australian Museum, Welshpool, WA 6986, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Alex Laini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Viale G.P. Usberti 33/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Christian Griebler
- Helmholtz Center Munich, Institute of Groundwater Ecology, Neuherberg, Germany; University of Vienna, Dept of Limnology and Bio-Oceanography, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kliti Grice
- WA-Organic Isotope Geochemistry Centre, The Institute for Geoscience Research, School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, WA, Australia
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Fattorini S, Di Lorenzo T, Galassi DMP. Earthquake impacts on microcrustacean communities inhabiting groundwater-fed springs alter species-abundance distribution patterns. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1501. [PMID: 29367660 PMCID: PMC5784129 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20011-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Earthquakes are important natural events, yet their impacts on animal communities are poorly known. Understanding earthquake impacts on groundwater communities is essential to assess their resilience and hence to perform conservation actions. We investigated how a 6.3 Mw earthquake that occurred in 2009 altered the community structure (diversity, evenness, dominance, species abundance distributions and beta-diversity) of microcrustaceans (Crustacea Copepoda) inhabiting springs fed by the Gran Sasso Aquifer (Central Italy). Sampling was done in low-discharge (1997), high-discharge (2005), and post-seismic (2012) hydrological years. Stygobites (obligate groundwater species) and non-stygobites (non-obligate groundwater species) showed different patterns. A high-water discharge in 2005 altered abundance patterns of non-stygobites. The earthquake re-established former abundance patterns. Stygobites were less affected by high-water discharge in 2005, and showed strong increases in diversity and evenness after the earthquake. This effect was due to the fact that the earthquake induced a strong population decline of previously dominant stygobites (especially of Nitocrella pescei) in the aquifer, and subsequently at the main spring outlets, thus allowing a more equitable species-abundance distribution. These results highlight the importance of considering species ecology to understand the effects of a significant earthquake event on animal communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Fattorini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
- cE3c-Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes/Azorean Biodiversity Group and University of Azores, Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal.
| | - Tiziana Di Lorenzo
- Institute of Ecosystem Study of the CNR (ISE-CNR), Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Diana M P Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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21
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Effect of Temperature Rising on the Stygobitic Crustacean Species Diacyclops belgicus: Does Global Warming Affect Groundwater Populations? WATER 2017. [DOI: 10.3390/w9120951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Barberio MD, Barbieri M, Billi A, Doglioni C, Petitta M. Hydrogeochemical changes before and during the 2016 Amatrice-Norcia seismic sequence (central Italy). Sci Rep 2017; 7:11735. [PMID: 28916778 PMCID: PMC5601465 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11990-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Seismic precursors are an as yet unattained frontier in earthquake studies. With the aim of making a step towards this frontier, we present a hydrogeochemical dataset associated with the 2016 Amatrice-Norcia seismic sequence (central Apennines, Italy), developed from August 24th, with an Mw 6.0 event, and culminating on October 30th, with an Mw 6.5 mainshock. The seismic sequence occurred during a seasonal depletion of hydrostructures, and the four strongest earthquakes (Mw ≥ 5.5) generated an abrupt uplift of the water level, recorded up to 100 km away from the mainshock area. Monitoring a set of selected springs in the central Apennines, a few hydrogeochemical anomalies were observed months before the onset of the seismic swarm, including a variation of pH values and an increase of As, V, and Fe concentrations. Cr concentrations increased immediately after the onset of the seismic sequence. On November 2016, these elements recovered to their usual low concentrations. We interpret these geochemical anomalies as reliable seismic precursors for a dilational tectonic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maurizio Barbieri
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Billi
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, IGAG, Rome, Italy.
| | - Carlo Doglioni
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Petitta
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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23
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Lombardo P, Miccoli FP. A note on oviposition by Lymnaea stagnalis (Linnaeus, 1758) (Gastropoda: Pulmonata: Lymnaeidae) on shells of conspecifics under laboratory conditions. FOLIA MALACOLOGICA 2017. [DOI: 10.12657/folmal.025.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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24
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Cifoni M, Galassi DMP, Faraloni C, Di Lorenzo T. Test procedures for measuring the (sub)chronic effects of chemicals on the freshwater cyclopoid Eucyclops serrulatus. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 173:89-98. [PMID: 28107718 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.12.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/31/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study has been to describe test procedures for measuring the (sub)chronic effects of chemicals on the freshwater cyclopoid Eucyclops serrulatus. To this end we have adapted the setting of the standard full life-cycle protocol of the marine harpacticoid A. tenuiremis to E. serrulatus. We have tested the effects of 4 different diets, two temperatures and two rearing volumes on the survival, development, reproduction and population growth rates of this species. Our results have highlighted that full life-cycle tests can be run using 2 mL-glass vials, a diet consisting of a mixture of living cells of Chlorella sorokiniana and Scenedesmus quadricauda, at either 25 °C (test duration: 42 days) or 18 °C (test duration: 51 days). However, the best performance in terms of survival, development, reproducibility and population growth rates with this species was obtained at 18 °C, albeit with significantly longer test duration. Subchronic tests in 2 mL-glass vials with the mixture microalgal diet at both temperatures are available options if considered appropriate for the objectives of a given study. In particular, developmental tests from nauplius to copepodid may profitably be performed in about 11 days at 18 °C and in 6 days at 25 °C. Under the same test conditions, subchronic tests from copepodid to adult may be run in 19 days at 18 °C and in 16 days at 25 °C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cifoni
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy; Institute of Ecosystem Study - CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Via Madonna del Piano10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Diana Maria Paola Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Cecilia Faraloni
- Institute of Ecosystem Study - CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Via Madonna del Piano10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Tiziana Di Lorenzo
- Institute of Ecosystem Study - CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Via Madonna del Piano10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
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Earthquake-Related Changes in Species Spatial Niche Overlaps in Spring Communities. Sci Rep 2017; 7:443. [PMID: 28348364 PMCID: PMC5428671 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00592-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Species interactions between stygobites (obligate groundwater organisms) are poorly known, reflecting the difficulty in studying such organisms in their natural environments. Some insight can be gained from the study of the spatial variability in microcrustacean communities in groundwater-fed springs. Earthquakes can increase hydraulic conductivity in the recharge area of karstic aquifers and flow rates in discharge zones, thus dislodging stygobites from their original habitats to the spring outlets. Earthquakes are expected to alter species spatial niche overlap at the spring outlets, where stygobites coexist with non-stygobites living in benthic and subsurface habitats. We compared the abundance of stygobiotic and non-stygobiotic microcrustaceans in groundwater-fed springs before and after the 6.3-Mw earthquake that hit the karstic Gran Sasso Aquifer (Italy) in 2009. Pre-seismic (1997, 2005) overall niche overlaps were not different from null expectations, while post-seismic (2012) species mean niche overlaps were higher, following the redistribution of animals caused by the earthquake-triggered discharge. The reduced abundance of stygobites following their dislodgement from the aquifer and the concomitant displacement of non-stygobites led to a higher post-seismic co-occurrence of stygobites and non-stygobites. Changes in aquifer structure destroyed pre-seismic species segregation patterns by creating new or strengthening already existing interactions.
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26
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Fattorini S, Borges PAV, Fiasca B, Galassi DMP. Trapped in the web of water: Groundwater-fed springs are island-like ecosystems for the meiofauna. Ecol Evol 2016; 6:8389-8401. [PMID: 28031791 PMCID: PMC5167013 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether the equilibrium theory of island biogeography (ETIB) can be applied to the meiofauna of groundwater‐fed springs. We tested whether copepod species richness was related with spring area, discharge, and elevation. Additionally, five hypotheses are tested based on species distribution patterns, dispersal ability, and life‐history characteristics of several guilds (stygobiotic, nonstygobiotic, cold stenotherm, and noncold stenotherm species). Thirty springs in the central Apennines (Italy) were considered. A multimodel selection procedure was applied to select best‐fit models using both ordinary least‐squares regressions and autoregressive models. Mantel tests were used to investigate the impact of spatial autocorrelation in determining interspring similarity (ßsor), pure turnover (ßsim), intersite nestedness (ßnest = ßsor − ßsim), and matrix nestedness (measured using NODF and other metrics). Explicit consideration of spatial correlations reduced the importance of predictors of overall species richness, noncold stenotherm species (both negatively affected by elevation), cold stenotherm species, and nonstygobiotic species, but increased the importance of area for the stygobiotic species. We detected nested patterns in all cases, except for the stygobites. Interspring distances were positively correlated with ßsor and ßnest (but not with ßsim) for the entire data set and for nonstygobiotic, cold stenotherm, and noncold stenotherm species. In the case of stygobites, interspring geographical distances were marginally correlated with ßsor and no correlation was found for ßsim and ßnest. We found support for ETIB predictions about species richness, which was positively influenced by area and negatively by elevation (which expresses the size of source of immigrants). Low turnover and high nestedness are consistent with an equilibrium scenario mainly regulated by immigration and extinction. Stygobites, which include many distributional and evolutionary relicts, have a low capability to disperse through the aquifers and tend to be mainly confined to the springs where they drifted out and were trapped by springbed sediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Fattorini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences University of L'Aquila L'Aquila Italy; Departamento de Ciências e Engenharia do Ambiente CE3C-Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes/Azorean Biodiversity Group Universidade dos Açores Angra do Heroísmo Açores Portugal
| | - Paulo A V Borges
- Departamento de Ciências e Engenharia do Ambiente CE3C-Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes/Azorean Biodiversity Group Universidade dos Açores Angra do Heroísmo Açores Portugal
| | - Barbara Fiasca
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences University of L'Aquila L'Aquila Italy
| | - Diana M P Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences University of L'Aquila L'Aquila Italy
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Di Lorenzo T, Borgoni R, Ambrosini R, Cifoni M, Galassi DMP, Petitta M. Occurrence of volatile organic compounds in shallow alluvial aquifers of a Mediterranean region: Baseline scenario and ecological implications. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 538:712-723. [PMID: 26327639 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.08.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A regional survey of eight volatile organic compounds (VOCs), namely BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and p-xylene) and four chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons (CAHs: chloroform, 1,2-dichloroethane, trichloroethene and tetrachloroethene), was carried out at 174 sites, in 17 alluvial aquifers of Abruzzo, a Mediterranean region of southern Italy, from 2004 to 2009. Frequency of detection, concentration range, spatial distribution pattern, and temporal trend of contaminant concentration in each aquifer were analyzed as well as the relationships between VOC concentrations and the total amount of precipitation during the 90days preceding each sampling date. A review of published ecotoxicological data, providing an indication of the biological risk associated with the observed levels of VOC contamination, was presented and discussed. BTEX concentrations were under detection limits in all the investigated aquifers, indicating absence of contamination. In contrast, CAH contamination occurred in 14 out of 17 aquifers. The two most frequently detected compounds were chloroform and tetrachloroethene. No significant temporal trend was observed for chloroform and tetrachloroethene concentrations during the six years of observation, indicating the persistence of stable contaminations, except for some slightly decreasing trends observed in three out of 17 aquifers. In four aquifers chloroform and tetrachloroethene concentrations increased with precipitations in the preceding months. Spatial patterns of contamination differed among aquifers, indicating highly complex contaminant distributions at aquifer scale not related to single-plume geometries. Patterns of contamination by chloroform and tetrachloroethene in the most urbanized aquifers were likely associated with multiple sources of VOCs not clearly detectable at the scale used in this study. In five out of 17 aquifers, chloroform and tetrachloroethene co-occurred at concentrations that are lethal to groundwater-dwelling organisms under a short exposure period (four days). Future studies should therefore consider the possibility that in the other aquifers groundwater-dwelling organisms might be physiologically damaged by sublethal VOC concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Di Lorenzo
- Institute of Ecosystem Study - CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
| | - R Borgoni
- Department of Economics, Management and Statistics, University of Milano Bicocca, Building U7, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - R Ambrosini
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - M Cifoni
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - D M P Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Petitta
- Department of the Earth Sciences, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', P.le Aldo Moro 5, Rome 00185, Italy
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