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Ryberg MP, Christensen A, Jørgensen C, Neuenfeldt S, Skov PV, Behrens JW. Bioenergetics modelling of growth processes in parasitized Eastern Baltic cod ( Gadus morhua L.). CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coad007. [PMID: 36911046 PMCID: PMC9999110 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coad007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Changes in physiological processes can reveal how individuals respond to environmental stressors. It can be difficult to link physiological responses to changes in vital rates such as growth, reproduction and survival. Here, bioenergetics modelling can aid in understanding non-intuitive outcomes from stressor combinations. Building on an established bioenergetics model, we examine the potential effects of parasite infection on growth rate and body condition. Parasites represent an overlooked biotic factor, despite their known effects on the physiology of the host organism. As a case study, we use the host-parasite system of Eastern Baltic cod (Gadus morhua) infected with the parasitic nematode Contraceacum osculatum. Eastern Baltic cod have during the past decade experienced increasing infection loads with C. osculatum that have been shown to lead to physiological changes. We hypothesized that infection with parasites affects cod growth negatively as previous studies reveal that the infections lead to reduced energy turnover, severe liver disease and reduced nutritional condition. To test this, we implemented new variables into the bioenergetics model representing the physiological changes in infected fish and parameterized these based on previous experimental data. We found that growth rate and body condition decreased with increased infection load. Highly infected cod reach a point of no return where their energy intake cannot maintain a surplus energy balance, which may eventually lead to induced mortality. In conclusion, parasite infections cannot be ignored when assessing drivers of fish stock dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Plambech Ryberg
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Kemitorvet, Building 202,
Kgs. Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Asbjørn Christensen
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Kemitorvet, Building 202,
Kgs. Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Christian Jørgensen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 53 A/B, 5006 Bergen, Norway
| | - Stefan Neuenfeldt
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Kemitorvet, Building 202,
Kgs. Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Peter V Skov
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Willemoesvej 2, Hirtshals 9850, Denmark
| | - Jane W Behrens
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Kemitorvet, Building 202,
Kgs. Lyngby 2800, Denmark
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2
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Nyiawung RA, Bennett NJ, Loring PA. Understanding change, complexities, and governability challenges in small-scale fisheries: a case study of Limbe, Cameroon, Central Africa. MARITIME STUDIES : MAST 2023; 22:7. [PMID: 36846087 PMCID: PMC9944802 DOI: 10.1007/s40152-023-00296-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Climate change, globalization, and increasing industrial and urban activities threaten the sustainability and viability of small-scale fisheries. How those affected can collectively mobilize their actions, share knowledge, and build their local adaptive capacity will shape how best they respond to these changes. This paper examines the changes experienced by small-scale fishing actors, social and governance complexities, and the sustainability challenges within the fisheries system in Limbe, Cameroon. Drawing on the fish-as-food framework, we discuss how ineffective fishery management in light of a confluence of global threats has resulted in changes to fish harvesters' activities, causing shortages in fish supply and disruptions in the fish value chain. The paper uses focus group discussions with fish harvesters and fishmongers to present three key findings. First, we show that changes in the fisheries from increased fishing activities and ineffective fishery management have disrupted fish harvesting and supply, impacting the social and economic well-being of small-scale fishing actors and their communities. Second, there are complexities in the fisheries value chain due to shortages in fish supply, creating conflicts between fisheries actors whose activities are not regulated by any specific set of rules or policies. Third, despite the importance of small-scale fisheries in Limbe, management has been abandoned by fishing actors who are not well-equipped with the appropriate capacity to design and enforce effective fishery management procedures and protections against illegal fishing activities. Empirical findings from this understudied fishery make scholarly contributions to the literature on the fish-as-food framework and demonstrate the need to support small-scale actors' fishing activities and the sustainability of the fisheries system in Limbe. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40152-023-00296-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A. Nyiawung
- Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario Canada
| | - Nathan J. Bennett
- World Wildlife Fund International, Gland, Switzerland
- People and the Ocean Specialist Group, Commission on Environmental, Economic and Social Policy, International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Gland, Switzerland
- The Peopled Seas Initiative, North Vancouver, Canada
| | - Philip A. Loring
- Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario Canada
- Arrell Food Institute, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
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3
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Is Wild Marine Biota Affected by Microplastics? Animals (Basel) 2022; 13:ani13010147. [PMID: 36611755 PMCID: PMC9817524 DOI: 10.3390/ani13010147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review provides detailed information on the adverse effects of MPs on wild marine organisms, including tissue damage, fish condition, oxidative stress, immune toxicity, and genotoxicity. A bibliometric analysis was carried out on CiteSpace (version 6.1.R3) (Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA) to verify how many papers studied the effects on wild marine species. The results showed a total of 395 articles, but only 22 really presented data on the effects or impacts on marine biota, and of these, only 12 articles highlighted negative effects. This review shows that the observed effects in wild organisms were less severe and milder than those found in the experimental conditions. The knowledge of negative effects caused by direct ingestion of microplastics in wild animals is still limited; more efforts are necessary to fully understand the role of MPs and the adverse effects on wild marine organisms, the ecosystem, and human health.
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Biton-Porsmoguer S, Bănaru D, Harmelin-Vivien M, Béarez P, Bouchoucha M, Marco-Miralles F, Marquès M, Lloret J. A study of trophic structure, physiological condition and mercury biomagnification in swordfish (Xiphias gladius): Evidence of unfavourable conditions for the swordfish population in the Western Mediterranean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 176:113411. [PMID: 35217416 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Studies integrating trophic ecology, physiological condition and accumulation of heavy metals in top predators, such as swordfish, are needed to better understand the links between them and the risk to humans associated with consumption of these fish. This research focuses on the swordfish of the Catalan Sea and follows a multi method approach that considers their diet, their liver lipid content, and mercury accumulation in their bodies as well as in their prey. The aim is to highlight the links between trophic ecology, physiology (fish condition), and eco-toxicology. Results indicate that poor condition of swordfish based on size and the levels of lipid in the liver, and the high Hg levels accumulated to the trophic web (particularly from cephalopods) may indicate potential unfavourable feeding and reproduction conditions for swordfish in the NW Mediterranean and this warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián Biton-Porsmoguer
- French Biodiversity Agency (OFB), Channel and North Sea Delegation, 4 rue du Colonel Fabien, BP 34, 76083 Le Havre, France; University of Girona, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Daniela Bănaru
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS/INSU, Toulon University, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, Campus de Luminy, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Mireille Harmelin-Vivien
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS/INSU, Toulon University, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, Campus de Luminy, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Béarez
- Archéozoologie, archéobotanique: sociétés, pratiques et environnements (AASPE, UMR 7209), CNRS/MNHN, Muséum national d'histoire naturelle, 55 rue Buffon, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Marc Bouchoucha
- Ifremer, Lab Environm Ressources Provence Azur Corse, CS 20330, F-83507 La Seyne Sur Mer, France
| | - Françoise Marco-Miralles
- Ifremer, Lab Environm Ressources Provence Azur Corse, CS 20330, F-83507 La Seyne Sur Mer, France
| | - Montse Marquès
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Josep Lloret
- University of Girona, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
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Campanini C, Albo-Puigserver M, Gérez S, Lloret-Lloret E, Giménez J, Pennino MG, Bellido JM, Colmenero AI, Coll M. Energy content of anchovy and sardine using surrogate calorimetry methods. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 172:105510. [PMID: 34717130 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) and sardine (Sardina pilchardus) are crucial species for the marine ecosystem of the Northwestern Mediterranean Sea. They account for a high percentage of fish landings and they represent an important economic income for the fishery sector. Concerns over their stock status are rising in recent years as biomass, growth, reproductive capacity, and body condition of both species are declining, with latitudinal variations. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a body condition monitoring scheme. Energy storage variability has important implications for both fish recruitment and population structure. Direct condition indices, such as energy density (ED) with bomb calorimetry, are highly reliable for measuring the energy content, but time-consuming. Alternatively, fatmeter analysis and relative condition index (Kn) have been proposed as effective indirect methods. The aim of this study is to test the application of fatmeter as a surrogate of bomb calorimetry to infer the energy content of sardine and anchovy. To validate its use, fatmeter values were compared with both ED and Kn values. Individuals of both species were sampled monthly for a year in order to assess seasonal variations in energy content. Our results highlight that fatmeter measurements are strongly correlated with calorimetry ED for sardine, while a weaker but significant correlation was found for anchovy. The observed differences between the two species are related to their breeding strategies. Based on this study, Kn cannot be considered a good proxy of the energy density of sardine, in particular during the resting period. By contrast, fatmeter analysis appears to be a faster and suitable method to evaluate the energy content of both species routinely. In addition, we provide a linear model to infer ED from fatmeter values for both small pelagic fish. Eventually, these findings could be used to implement body condition monitoring protocols and boost continuous large-scale monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Campanini
- Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, 08003, Spain.
| | - Marta Albo-Puigserver
- Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, 08003, Spain; Centro de Ciências do Mar (CCMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, 8005-139, Portugal
| | - Sara Gérez
- Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, 08003, Spain
| | - Elena Lloret-Lloret
- Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, 08003, Spain
| | - Joan Giménez
- Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, 08003, Spain; MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, P43 C573, Ireland
| | - Maria Grazia Pennino
- Fishery Department, Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC). Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo. Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52, Vigo, Pontevedra, 36390, Spain
| | - José María Bellido
- Fishery Department, Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, San Pedro del Pinatar, 30740, Spain
| | - Ana I Colmenero
- Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, 08003, Spain
| | - Marta Coll
- Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, 08003, Spain
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Lloret J, Serrat A, Thordarson G, Helle K, Jadaud A, Bruno I, Ordines F, Sartor P, Carbonara P, Rätz HJ. The poor health of deep-water species in the context of fishing activity and a warming climate: will populations of Molva species rebuild or collapse? JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2021; 98:1572-1584. [PMID: 32293032 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Many deep-water fish populations, being K-selected species, have little resilience to overexploitation and may be at serious risk of depletion as a consequence. Sea warming represents an additional threat. In this study, the condition, or health, of several populations of common ling (Molva molva), blue ling (Molva dypterygia) and Mediterranean or Spanish ling (Molva macrophthalma) inhabiting different areas in the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean was evaluated, to shed light on the challenges these deep-water species are facing in the context of fishing activity and a warming climate. The data on the condition of Molva populations which are analysed here have been complemented with data on abundance and, for the southernmost species (Mediterranean ling), with two other health indicators (parasitism and hepato-somatic index). Despite some exceptions (e.g., common ling in Icelandic waters), this study shows that the condition of many populations of Molva species in the northeastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea has worsened, a trend which, in recent decades, has usually been found to be accompanied by a decline in their abundance. In addition, the poor health status of most populations of common ling, blue ling and Mediterranean ling considered in this analysis points to a lower sustainability of these populations in the future. Overall, the health status and abundance of Molva populations in the northeastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean suggest that only some populations located in the North Atlantic may be able to rebuild, whereas the populations in southern North Atlantic and the Mediterranean, which are probably most at risk from sea warming, are facing serious difficulties in doing so. In the context of fisheries and global warming, this study's results strongly indicate that management bodies need to consider the health status of many of the populations of Molva species, particularly in southern European waters, before implementing their decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Lloret
- Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Alba Serrat
- Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | | | | | - Angelique Jadaud
- MARBEC, Ifremer, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Sète, France
| | - Isabel Bruno
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Vigo, Spain
| | - Francesc Ordines
- Centre Oceanogràfic de Balears, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Paolo Sartor
- CIBM Consorzio per il Centro Internuniversitario di Biologia Marina ed Ecologia Applicata "G. Bacci", Livorno, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Carbonara
- COISPA Tecnologia & Ricerca, Stazione Sperimentale per lo Studio delle Risorse del Mare, Bari, Italy
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Morgan E, Hutchinson D, Gaion A. Plastic Ingestion by the Small-Spotted Catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) from the South West Coast of the United Kingdom. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2021; 106:910-915. [PMID: 33580294 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-021-03129-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has increased dramatically worldwide and is having a detrimental effect on a variety of marine organisms. This study contributes to the existing data on the ingestion of both macroplastics and microplastics by one elasmobranch species, the small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula), considering the occurrence in males and females. Plastics were extracted from the stomach and spiral valve of (N = 200, n = 100 females and n = 100 males) and analysed by visual observations. A total of 28 pieces of plastic were found with five pieces extracted from a single individual. Overall findings indicate that this shark species is vulnerable to some extent to plastic ingestion (6.5% frequency of occurrence), but different aspects, such as differences in plastic contamination levels of different locations and ability to regurgitate stomach content, may affect the results of similar studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellana Morgan
- University Centre South Devon, Long Road, Paignton, TQ4 7EJ, UK.
| | | | - Andrea Gaion
- University Centre South Devon, Long Road, Paignton, TQ4 7EJ, UK
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8
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Negative effect of ectoparasite burdens on the condition factor from farmed tilapia Oreochromis niloticus in the Yucatan, Mexico. Vet Parasitol 2021; 292:109393. [PMID: 33823389 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus, 1758) is one of the most important aquaculture species in the world, and, when introduced, the ectoparasites of Nile tilapia have followed. Currently, farmers worldwide consider these ectoparasites harmless, but intensities can reach up to 1000 individuals per fish in tropical regions. In this cross-sectional study, we used the condition factor to estimate the potential effects of low (45 ± 31 ectoparasites per fish) and high (295 ± 191) ectoparasitic burdens across 28 tilapia farms and included the analysis of the effects of 44 management and environmental variable from the farms. A stepwise procedure in a multiple linear regression analysis retained the variables that explained the most variance, which was the ectoparasitic burden (57 %). We found significantly higher values of the condition factor in Nile tilapia with low ectoparasitic burden than in those with high ectoparasitic burden. Additionally, Nile tilapia with a high ectoparasitic burden weighed less than half than those with a low burden (102 ± 105 g versus 230 ± 128 g, respectively). We also found a significant non-linear, negative relationship between the ectoparasitic burden and the relative condition factor values per fish, which was most likely due to an increase in gill mucus caused by the ectoparasitic burden that depleted energy in the Nile tilapia. The economic consequence of the ectoparasitic burden translated roughly into a loss up to 12-15 % in profit margin per ton of fish, based on the price of Nile tilapia in the Mexican market.
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Biton-Porsmoguer S, Bou R, Lloret E, Alcaide M, Lloret J. Fatty acid composition and parasitism of European sardine ( Sardina pilchardus) and anchovy ( Engraulis encrasicolus) populations in the northern Catalan Sea in the context of changing environmental conditions. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 8:coaa121. [PMID: 33408866 PMCID: PMC7771577 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coaa121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The status of sardine and anchovy populations in the northern Mediterranean Sea has been declining in recent decades. In this study, fatty acids and parasitism at different reproductive and feeding stages in these two species were assessed using specimens caught along the northern Catalan coast, in order to assess the links between lipid dynamics, reproduction and feeding in these two species and to contribute towards an explanation of the potential causes of the current poor situation of the stocks. The results support the use of fatty acid levels as indicators of the body condition of sardine and anchovy at different reproductive and feeding stages, as well as that of the pelagic environmental conditions. In particular, the relatively low n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels found in spawning sardines compared to spawning anchovies indicate a poorer reproductive health status of sardine. By comparing the current total lipid content values with those recorded in other Mediterranean and North Atlantic areas, and others from more than 10 years ago, in the adjacent area of the Gulf of Lion, our study reveals the persistent poor condition of sardine and anchovy in the northern Catalan Sea. Furthermore, the low levels of diatom fatty acid markers observed throughout the spawning and non-spawning seasons in both sardine and anchovy indicate a diet poor in diatoms. Moreover, the results indicate that it is very unlikely that parasitism is a significant factor in the decline in condition of sardine and anchovy in the northern Catalan Sea. In fact, the results, which we believe provide useful insights for the management of small pelagic fisheries in the Mediterranean, suggest that the current poor condition of sardine and anchovy in the northern Catalan Sea has probably been exacerbated by a decrease in plankton productivity and/or a shift in the taxonomic composition of phytoplankton communities, adding to the ongoing effects of overfishing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Biton-Porsmoguer
- Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Oceans and Human Health Chair, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Ricard Bou
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries, Food Technology, Finca Camps i Armet s/n, E-17121 Monells, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Elsa Lloret
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries, Food Technology, Finca Camps i Armet s/n, E-17121 Monells, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Manuel Alcaide
- Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Oceans and Human Health Chair, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Josep Lloret
- Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Oceans and Human Health Chair, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
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10
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Ryberg MP, Skov PV, Vendramin N, Buchmann K, Nielsen A, Behrens JW. Physiological condition of Eastern Baltic cod, Gadus morhua, infected with the parasitic nematode Contracaecum osculatum. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 8:coaa093. [PMID: 32995005 PMCID: PMC7507771 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coaa093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Establishing relationships between parasite infection and physiological condition of the host can be difficult and therefore are often neglected when describing factors causing population declines. Using the parasite-host system between the parasitic nematode Contracaecum osculatum and the Eastern Baltic cod Gadus morhua, we here shed new light on how parasite load may relate to the physiological condition of a transport host. The Eastern Baltic cod is in distress, with declining nutritional conditions, disappearance of the larger fish, high natural mortality and no signs of recovery of the population. During the latest decade, high infection levels with C. osculatum have been observed in fish in the central and southern parts of the Baltic Sea. We investigated the aerobic performance, nutritional condition, organ masses, and plasma and proximate body composition of wild naturally infected G. morhua in relation to infection density with C. osculatum. Fish with high infection densities of C. osculatum had (i) decreased nutritional condition, (ii) depressed energy turnover as evidenced by reduced standard metabolic rate, (iii) reduction in the digestive organ masses, and alongside (iv) changes in the plasma, body and liver composition, and fish energy source. The significantly reduced albumin to globulin ratio in highly infected G. morhua suggests that the fish suffer from a chronic liver disease. Furthermore, fish with high infection loads had the lowest Fulton's condition factor. Yet, it remains unknown whether our results steam from a direct effect of C. osculatum, or because G. morhua in an already compromised nutritional state are more susceptible towards the parasite. Nevertheless, impairment of the physiological condition can lead to reduced swimming performance, compromising foraging success while augmenting the risk of predation, potentially leading to an increase in the natural mortality of the host. We hence argue that fish-parasite interactions must not be neglected when implementing and refining strategies to rebuild deteriorating populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Plambech Ryberg
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Kemitorvet 201, Kgs. Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Peter V Skov
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Willemoesvej 2, Hirtshals 9850, Denmark
| | - Niccolò Vendramin
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Kemitorvet 201, Kgs. Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Kurt Buchmann
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Stigbøjlen 7, Frederiksberg 1870, Denmark
| | - Anders Nielsen
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Kemitorvet 201, Kgs. Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Jane W Behrens
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua), Kemitorvet 201, Kgs. Lyngby 2800, Denmark
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11
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Albo-Puigserver M, Sánchez S, Coll M, Bernal M, Sáez-Liante R, Navarro J, Palomera I. Year-round energy dynamics of sardine and anchovy in the north-western Mediterranean Sea. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 159:105021. [PMID: 32662445 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2020.105021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Variability in body condition and energy storage has important implications for fish recruitment and ecosystem structure. Understanding strategies for energy allocation to maintenance, reproduction and growth is essential to evaluate the state of the fish stocks. In this study, we address the energetics dynamics of the annual cycle of anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus) and sardines (Sardina pilchardus) in the north-western Mediterranean Sea using indirect and direct condition indices. We assessed and validated the use of morphometric, biochemical and energetic indices for both species. Annual patterns of the relative condition index (Kn), gonadosomatic index (GSI), lipid content (% lipids) and energy density (ED) were linked to the energy allocation strategy. Our results highlight that anchovy mainly rely on income energy to reproduce, while sardine accumulate the energy during the resting period to be used in the reproduction period. Consequently, variability in the lipid content and ED between seasons was lower in anchovy than in sardine. In both species, we observed an early decline in energy reserves in late summer-early fall, which may be related to unfavourable environmental conditions during spring and summer. Regarding the use of different condition indices, both direct indices, lipid content and ED, were highly correlated with Kn for sardine. ED was better correlated with Kn than lipid content for anchovy. For the first time, a relationship between ED of gonads and GSI for sardine and anchovy was provided, highlighting the importance of the energy invested in reproduction. This work provides new insights into the energy dynamics of sardine and anchovy. We also demonstrate which are the most suitable indices to measure changes in the physiological condition of both species, providing tools for the future monitoring of the populations of these two commercially and ecologically important fish species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonia Sánchez
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Marta Coll
- Institut de Ciències Del Mar (ICM-CSIC), 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Bernal
- Centro Oceanográfico de Cádiz, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, 11006, Cádiz, Spain
| | | | - Joan Navarro
- Institut de Ciències Del Mar (ICM-CSIC), 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Palomera
- Institut de Ciències Del Mar (ICM-CSIC), 08003, Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Savoca S, Bottari T, Fazio E, Bonsignore M, Mancuso M, Luna GM, Romeo T, D'Urso L, Capillo G, Panarello G, Greco S, Compagnini G, Lanteri G, Crupi R, Neri F, Spanò N. Plastics occurrence in juveniles of Engraulis encrasicolus and Sardina pilchardus in the Southern Tyrrhenian Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 718:137457. [PMID: 32325618 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We report the presence of microplastics on the external surface and in the gastrointestinal tract of white late-larval and juvenile stages (fry) of clupeid fishes caught in the Southern Tyrrhenian Sea. The average highest number of plastics debris was recorded on Sardina pilchardus (0.53 items/specimen); a lower average number of items was observed for Engraulis encrasicolus (0.26 items/specimen). The plastics were characterized by fibers that differed in shape, colour and composition. Polyester, polypropylene, polyacrylonitrile, polyethylene, polyamide, nylon, rayon and polyurethane segments were detected by Raman and FTIR spectroscopies. Traces of organic components and dyes, compounds that are generally included in the polymer matrix to modify its base properties, were also identified on microplastics. Our results raise concerns for the potential transfer of synthetic materials through the marine food web and into humans, given the prominent role of S. pilchardus and E. encrasicolus within the food web as main food source for many marine species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Savoca
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Teresa Bottari
- Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology (IRBIM), National Research Council (CNR), Section of Messina, Spianata S. Raineri, 86 98122 Messina, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Centro Interdipartimentale della Sicilia, Messina, Italy
| | - Enza Fazio
- Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Physical Science and Earth Science, Messina University, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Martina Bonsignore
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Monique Mancuso
- Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology (IRBIM), National Research Council (CNR), Section of Messina, Spianata S. Raineri, 86 98122 Messina, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Centro Interdipartimentale della Sicilia, Messina, Italy
| | - Gian Marco Luna
- Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology (IRBIM), National Research Council (CNR), Section of Messina, Spianata S. Raineri, 86 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Teresa Romeo
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Centro Interdipartimentale della Sicilia, Messina, Italy; Institute for Protection and Environmental Research (ISPRA), Via dei Mille, 46, Milazzo (ME), Italy
| | - Luisa D'Urso
- Department of Chemical Science, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
| | - Gioele Capillo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Panarello
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Silvestro Greco
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Centro Interdipartimentale della Sicilia, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Compagnini
- Department of Chemical Science, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
| | - Giovanni Lanteri
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Rosalia Crupi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Fortunato Neri
- Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Physical Science and Earth Science, Messina University, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Nunziacarla Spanò
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, Messina, Italy
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13
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Serrat A, Lloret J, Frigola-Tepe X, Muñoz M. Trade-offs between life-history traits in a coldwater fish in the Mediterranean Sea: the case of blue whiting Micromesistius poutassou. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2019; 95:428-443. [PMID: 31038739 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A combination of traditional and emerging methodologies was used to assess the trade-offs between several life-history traits (linked to reproduction and condition) and parasitism in a commercially-exploited cold-water species, blue whiting Micromesistius poutassou, in the Mediterranean Sea. The use of histological and gravimetric methods revealed conflicting evidence as to the fecundity type (indeterminate or determinate) of this species. Moreover, there seem to be condition-mediated compensations between egg quality and egg quantity. The effects of parasitism on reproduction and condition are species-specific and occur mainly at high intensities of infection; they include a lower batch fecundity (affecting reproductive potential), a higher hepatosomatic index and a higher spleen-somatic index. Considering the fact that larger fish spawn more eggs and that the minimum landing size is lower than the size at maturity, these results may have implications for the future management of M. poutassou stocks in the Mediterranean Sea. Local environmental conditions may account for geographical differences regarding infection in M. poutassou. Altogether, the results support the idea that the complex trade-offs between parasitism, reproduction and condition need to be considered in order to understand the status of cold-water species such as M. poutassou.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Serrat
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Environmental Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Josep Lloret
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Environmental Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Xenia Frigola-Tepe
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Environmental Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Marta Muñoz
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Environmental Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
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14
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Hinz H, Reñones O, Gouraguine A, Johnson AF, Moranta J. Fish nursery value of algae habitats in temperate coastal reefs. PeerJ 2019; 7:e6797. [PMID: 31143530 PMCID: PMC6525592 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The nursery function of coastal habitats is one of the most frequently mentioned and recognized ecosystem services in the valuation of coastal ecosystems. Despite its importance our understanding of the precise habitat parameters and mechanisms that make a habitat important as a nursery area is still limited for many species. The study aimed to establish the importance of different algae morphotypes in providing shelter and food for juvenile coastal fish during the main settlement peaks, in early spring and late summer, in littoral rocky reef systems in the Northwestern Mediterranean. The results of our study showed strong seasonal differences in algae cover, composition and height between the two sampling periods. Overall, during spring the algae were well developed, while in late summer, both density and height, of most algae decreased considerably. Equally, prey biomass, in form of suitable sized invertebrate fauna associated to the algae, decreased. Accordingly, the shelter and food for the fish settling in this habitat during late summer were less abundant, indicating a mismatch between the observed presence of juvenile fish and optimal habitat conditions. Differences in prey densities were detected between algae morphotypes, with structurally more complex algae, such as Cystoseira spp. and Halopteris spp. consistently containing more prey, independent of season, compared to simpler structured morphotypes such as Dictoytales. The study furthermore related juvenile fish density to habitats dominated by different algae morphotypes. Out of the three-study species (Diplodus vulgaris, Symphodus ocellatus, Coris julis) only S. ocellatus showed a significant association with an algae habitat. S. ocellatus related positively to habitats dominated by Dictoytales which provided the highest cover during late summer but had the lowest prey densities. A strong association of this species with Cystoseira, as reported by other studies, could not be confirmed. Cystoseira was abundant within the study area but in a state of dieback, showing loss and reduced height of foliage, typical for the time of year within the study area. It is therefore likely that algae-fish associations are context-dependent and that several algae species may fulfil similar functions. We also discovered that prey biomass did not appear to have an important effect on juvenile abundances. Nevertheless, the availability of prey may influence juvenile fish condition, growth performance and ultimately long-term survival. We therefore suggest that future studies on habitat quality should also include, besides abundance, indicators related to the condition and growth of juveniles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilmar Hinz
- Instituto Mediterraneo de Estudios Avanzados (IMEDEA; CSIC-UIB), Esporles, Illes Balears, Spain.,Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Centre Oceanográfic de les Balears, Ecosystem Oceanography Group (GRECO), Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Olga Reñones
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Centre Oceanográfic de les Balears, Ecosystem Oceanography Group (GRECO), Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Adam Gouraguine
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Joan Moranta
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Centre Oceanográfic de les Balears, Ecosystem Oceanography Group (GRECO), Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
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15
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Mancuso M, Savoca S, Bottari T. First record of microplastics ingestion by European hake MERLUCCIUS MERLUCCIUS from the Tyrrhenian Sicilian coast (Central Mediterranean Sea). JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2019; 94:517-519. [PMID: 30706483 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A sample of 67 European hake Merluccius merluccius were examined to highlight the ingestion of microplastics in the Tyrrhenian Sea. In all samples, 31 black fibres were found in the stomach contents corresponding to 46.3% of the specimens. The data presented here could be important for the implementation of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive in Mediterranean waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Mancuso
- Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnology (IRBIM) - CNR National Research Council (CNR), Section of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Serena Savoca
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Teresa Bottari
- Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnology (IRBIM) - CNR National Research Council (CNR), Section of Messina, Messina, Italy
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16
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Silva C, Veríssimo A, Cardoso P, Cable J, Xavier R. Infection of the lesser spotted dogfish with Proleptus obtusus Dujardin, 1845 (Nematoda: Spirurida) reflects ontogenetic feeding behaviour and seasonal differences in prey availability. Acta Parasitol 2017; 62:471-476. [PMID: 28426406 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2017-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Proleptus obtusus Dujardin, 1845 is the most common parasite infecting the gut of the lesser spotted dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula, Linnaeus). This nematode is trophically transmitted from an intermediate crustacean host to the definitive elasmobranch host. Sexual and age-related differences in habitat occupancy and feeding behaviour of the lesser spotted dogfish make this parasite-host dyad ideal for testing which aspects of host biology influence parasite transmission. Here, the relationship between P. obtusus burden and host condition, sex and age were investigated in lesser spotted dogfish captured in the Northeast Atlantic. Prevalence of P. obtusus was of 94.8% with a mean abundance of 23.3 worms per host. Our results indicate that parasite burden is best explained by the interaction between ontogenetic differences in foraging behaviour of the lesser spotted dogfish and seasonal differences in prey availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlota Silva
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 4485-261 Vairão
| | - Ana Veríssimo
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 4485-261 Vairão
| | - Pedro Cardoso
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 4485-261 Vairão
| | - Jo Cable
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX
| | - Raquel Xavier
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 4485-261 Vairão
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17
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Özer A, Çankaya E, Yılmaz Kırca D. Health assessment of grey mulletMugil cephalusbased on interrelationship between parasite co-infections and relative condition factor. J Zool (1987) 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Özer
- Department of Fish Disease; Faculty of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences; Sinop University; Sinop Turkey
| | - E. Çankaya
- Department of Statistics; Faculty of Science and Letters; Sinop University; Sinop Turkey
| | - D. Yılmaz Kırca
- Department of Fish Disease; Faculty of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences; Sinop University; Sinop Turkey
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18
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Ferrer-Maza D, Lloret J, Muñoz M, Faliex E, Vila S, Sasal P. Links between parasitism, energy reserves and fecundity of European anchovy, Engraulis encrasicolus, in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 4:cov069. [PMID: 27293748 PMCID: PMC4732407 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cov069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Revised: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The European anchovy, Engraulis encrasicolus L. 1758, is one of the most sought-after target species in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea. However, this stock currently consists of small individuals, and landings are reported to have decreased considerably. The main purpose of this study was to assess, for the first time, the interrelationships between size, fecundity, energy reserves and parasitism in female anchovies, in order to analyse the potential implications for the health of northwestern Mediterranean anchovy stocks arising from the current shortage of large individuals. Results revealed that smaller individuals show lower fecundity, lower lipid content and a higher intensity of certain parasites. As it is known that smaller individuals now predominate in the population, the relationships found in this study indicate that the health of anchovies from the northwestern Mediterranean is currently impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolors Ferrer-Maza
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Girona, Girona E-17071, Spain
- Corresponding author: Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, s/n, E-17071 Girona, Spain. Tel: +34 972 418 269.
| | - Josep Lloret
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Girona, Girona E-17071, Spain
| | - Marta Muñoz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Girona, Girona E-17071, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Faliex
- Centre de Formation et de Recherche sur les Environnements Méditerranéens, University of Perpignan Via Domitia, UMR 5110, Perpignan F-66860, France
| | - Sílvia Vila
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Girona, Girona E-17071, Spain
| | - Pierre Sasal
- Laboratoire d’Excellence Corail, CRIOBE, USR 3278 – CNRS – EPHE, CBETM – Université de Perpignan & BP 1013 – 98729, Papetoai, Moorea, French Polynesia
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