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Ferretti L, Moccia V, Centelleghe C, Venerando A, Dettin M, Sieni E, Zamuner A, Caicci F, Castagnaro M, Zappulli V, Mazzariol S. Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) immortalized fibroblasts on novel 3D in vitro collagen-free scaffolds. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304992. [PMID: 38861523 PMCID: PMC11166351 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Dolphins, as apex predators, can be considered relevant sentinels of the health of marine ecosystems. The creation of 3D cell models to assess in vitro cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix interactions in environmental-mimicking conditions, is of considerable interest. However, to date the establishment of cetacean 3D culture systems has not yet been accomplished. Thus, in this study, different 3D systems of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) skin fibroblasts have been analyzed. Particularly, novel scaffolds based on hyaluronic acid and ionic-complementary self-assembling peptides such as RGD-EAbuK and EAbuK-IKVAV have been compared to Matrigel. Histological and fluorescent staining, electron microscopy (TEM) analyses and viability assays have been performed and RT-PCR has been used to detect extracellular matrix (ECM) components produced by cells. Results showed that Matrigel induced cells to form aggregates with lower viability and no ECM production compared to the novel scaffolds. Moreover, scaffolds allowed dispersed cells to produce a collagenous ECM containing collagen1a1, laminin B1 and elastin. The HA-EAbuK-IKVAV scaffold resulted in the most suitable 3D model in terms of cell quantity and viability. The development of this innovative approach is the first step towards the possibility to create 3D in vitro models for this protected species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucrezia Ferretti
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Valentina Moccia
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Cinzia Centelleghe
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Andrea Venerando
- Department of Agrifood, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Monica Dettin
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sieni
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Insubria University, Varese, Italy
| | - Annj Zamuner
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Castagnaro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Valentina Zappulli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Sandro Mazzariol
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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2
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Ceciarini I, Franchi E, Capanni F, Consales G, Minoia L, Ancora S, D'Agostino A, Lucchetti A, Li Veli D, Marsili L. Assessment of interactive acoustic deterrent devices set on trammel nets to reduce dolphin-fishery interactions in the Northern Tyrrhenian Sea. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20680. [PMID: 38001158 PMCID: PMC10673957 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46836-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dolphin-fishery interaction is a worldwide issue affecting dolphins through bycatch and fishers through catch or gear damages. Concerning the Mediterranean Sea, problematic interactions mainly occur between common bottlenose dolphin and small-scale fisheries. Acoustic Deterrent Devices such as pingers, are one of the most widespread measures used in attempts to face this issue. Therefore, the efficiency of interactive pingers (DiD01) in protecting the trammel nets from dolphin interactions was assessed in the Northern Tyrrhenian Sea. From March to October 2021, a total of 139 fishing trials using nets with pingers (TEST) and without pingers (CTRL), respectively n = 97 and n = 42, were carried out. Non-parametric statistic of the Catch per Unit Effort, comparing control and test nets, was not significantly different (p > 0.05) using catches weights (CPUEW) while it was significant (p < 0.01) considering the number of individuals (CPUEN). Moreover, richness and relative abundance of species resulted statistically higher in test nets (p < 0.05). This finding suggests that the absence of dolphin in the neighbourhood of fishing areas thanks to the use of pingers increases the diversity of target species. Catch damages caused by dolphins were statistically higher in nets without pinger than in nets with pinger (p < 0.05). No dolphin bycatch was recorded during fishing operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Ceciarini
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
- La Casa dei Pesci Onlus, Via Montianese 41, Fonteblanda, 58015, Talamone, Grosseto, Italy
| | - Enrica Franchi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Capanni
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Guia Consales
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Minoia
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Italian National Institute for Marine Biology, Ecology and Biotechnology, Genoa Marine Center (GMC), Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefania Ancora
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Antonella D'Agostino
- Department of Business and Quantitative Studies, University of Naples Parthenope, Via Generale Parisi 13, 80132, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Lucchetti
- Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies (IRBIM), National Research Council (CNR), Largo Fiera della Pesca 1, 60125, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniel Li Veli
- Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies (IRBIM), National Research Council (CNR), Largo Fiera della Pesca 1, 60125, Ancona, Italy
| | - Letizia Marsili
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
- La Casa dei Pesci Onlus, Via Montianese 41, Fonteblanda, 58015, Talamone, Grosseto, Italy
- Centro Interuniversitario per la Ricerca sui Cetacei (CIRCE), Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Strada Laterina 8, 53100, Siena, Italy
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3
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Bonizzoni S, Gramolini R, Furey NB, Bearzi G. Bottlenose dolphin distribution in a Mediterranean area exposed to intensive trawling. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 188:105993. [PMID: 37084688 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.105993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The Adriatic Sea is one of the areas most exposed to trawling, worldwide. We used four years (2018-2021) and 19,887 km of survey data to investigate factors influencing daylight dolphin distribution in its north-western sector, where common bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus routinely follow fishing trawlers. We validated Automatic Identification System information on the position, type and activity of three types of trawlers based on observations from boats, and incorporated this information in a GAM-GEE modelling framework, together with physiographic, biological and anthropogenic variables. Along with bottom depth, trawlers (particularly otter and midwater trawlers) appeared to be important drivers of dolphin distribution, with dolphins foraging and scavenging behind trawlers during 39.3% of total observation time in trawling days. The spatial dimension of dolphin adaptations to intensive trawling, including distribution shifts between days with and without trawling, sheds light on the magnitude of ecological change driven by the trawl fishery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bonizzoni
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, via Cellina 5, 33084, Cordenons, PN, Italy; OceanCare, Gerbestrasse 6, Postfach 372, 8820, Wädenswil, Switzerland.
| | | | - Nathan B Furey
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, via Cellina 5, 33084, Cordenons, PN, Italy; Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Spaulding Hall Rm 276, Durham, NH, 03824, USA
| | - Giovanni Bearzi
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, via Cellina 5, 33084, Cordenons, PN, Italy; OceanCare, Gerbestrasse 6, Postfach 372, 8820, Wädenswil, Switzerland; ISMAR Institute of Marine Sciences, CNR National Research Council, Arsenale Tesa 104, Castello 2737/F, 30122, Venice, Italy
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4
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Morick D, Blum SE, Davidovich N, Zemah-Shamir Z, Bigal E, Itay P, Rokney A, Nasie I, Feldman N, Flecker M, Roditi-Elasar M, Aharoni K, Zuriel Y, Wosnick N, Tchernov D, Scheinin AP. Photobacterium damselae subspecies damselae Pneumonia in Dead, Stranded Bottlenose Dolphin, Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:179-183. [PMID: 36573620 PMCID: PMC9796189 DOI: 10.3201/eid2901.221345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Photobacterium damselae subspecies damselae, an abundant, generalist marine pathogen, has been reported in various cetaceans worldwide. We report a bottlenose dolphin in the eastern Mediterranean Sea that was found stranded and dead. The dolphin had a severe case of chronic suppurative pneumonia and splenic lymphoid depletion caused by this pathogen.
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Genov T, Železnik J, Bruno C, Ascheri D, Fontanesi E, Blasi MF. The longest recorded movement of an inshore common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Mamm Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-022-00316-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AbstractInformation on movements and connectivity among populations of animals is important for the delineation of units to conserve, so that demographic parameters, such as abundance, fecundity and mortality, can be placed in an appropriate population and conservation context. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) are often considered relatively ‘resident’ and demonstrating strong site fidelity to specific areas. However, this perception may partly be an artefact of the distribution and ‘habitat use’ of cetacean researchers, rather than animals themselves, and bottlenose dolphins have been shown to be capable of substantial movements, often in relatively short periods of time. Here, we report on two long-distance movements of a common bottlenose dolphin within the Mediterranean Sea, across the Tyrrhenian, Ionian and Adriatic Seas, and subsequently back across all three seas to Ligurian Sea, making these the two longest recorded movement for this species in the Mediterranean Sea to date and some of the longest in the world. We also review published records of long-distance movements in this species worldwide. This study highlights the utility of photo-identification and the importance of regional data sharing. We argue that photo-identification comparisons are always worthwhile and the results are informative regardless of the presence or absence of matches, especially with the ongoing advances in automated matching software.
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Lauret V, Labach H, Turek D, Laran S, Gimenez O. Integrated spatial models foster complementarity between monitoring programmes in producing large‐scale bottlenose dolphin indicators. Anim Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V. Lauret
- CEFE, Université Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD Montpellier France
| | - H. Labach
- CEFE, Université Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD Montpellier France
- MIRACETI, Connaissance et conservation des cétacés Place des traceurs de pierres La Couronne France
| | - D. Turek
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics Williams College Williamstown MA USA
| | - S. Laran
- Observatoire PELAGIS UMS 3462 CNRS‐La Rochelle Université La Rochelle France
| | - O. Gimenez
- CEFE, Université Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD Montpellier France
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7
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The Seabed Makes the Dolphins: Physiographic Features Shape the Size and Structure of the Bottlenose Dolphin Geographical Units. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse10081036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is a cosmopolitan delphinid, regularly present in the Mediterranean Sea. According to previous studies, this dolphin tends to form resident geographical units scattered on the continental shelf. We investigated how the physiographic characteristics of the area of residence, with special reference to the size and shape of the continental shelf, affect the home range and the group size of the local units. We analysed and compared data collected between 2004–2016 by 15 research groups operating in different study areas of the Mediterranean Sea: the Alboran Sea, in the South-Western Mediterranean, the Gulf of Lion and the Pelagos Sanctuary for the marine mammals, in the North-Western Mediterranean, and the Gulf of Ambracia, in the North-Central Mediterranean Sea. We have found that in areas characterised by a wide continental platform, dolphins have wider home ranges and aggregate into larger groups. In areas characterized by a narrow continental platform, dolphins show much smaller home ranges and aggregate into smaller groups. The results obtained from this collective research effort highlight the importance of data sharing to improve our scientific knowledge in the field of cetaceans and beyond.
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8
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Bottlenose Dolphins and Seabirds Distribution Analysis for the Identification of a Marine Biodiversity Hotspot in Agrigento Waters. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse10030345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate the presence of biodiversity hotspots in Agrigento waters (Mediterranean Sea) to define the conservation area for bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and seabirds (Calonectris diomedea, Puffinus yelkouan, and Hydrobates pelagicus), according to European directives. With this purpose, the maximum entropy algorithm (MaxEnt) was applied to the sighting points of the focal species. They co-occur in the study area and have been documented to forage behind trawlers. In this study, a fishing rate was designed and used as an explanatory variable of the species distribution, together with physiographic variables. Data were collected during 68 surveys in the waters off Agrigento province. MaxEnt models showed a strong predictive power, with distance from the coast being the greatest predicting variable, followed by slope, depth, and fishing rate. For all the species considered, the probability of presence increased as the fishing rate grew. Cartographic analysis revealed one area shared by the species, which occupies 529 km2, from the shoreline to 100 m depth. This study increases knowledge on the distribution and habitat preferences of the target species in the Sicilian waters. Evaluating the influence of fisheries is a promising method that needs further testing to apply effective management measures.
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9
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Sciancalepore G, Pietroluongo G, Centelleghe C, Milan M, Bonato M, Corazzola G, Mazzariol S. Evaluation of per- and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in livers of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) found stranded along the northern Adriatic Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 291:118186. [PMID: 34560576 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Per-and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of chemicals used in a wide variety of commercial products and industrial applications. These chemicals are persistent, can accumulate in humans' and animals' tissues and in the environment, representing an increasing concern due to their moderate to highly toxicity. Their global distribution, persistence and toxicity led to an urgent need to investigate bioaccumulation also in marine species. In 2013 PFAS contamination was detected in a vast area in Veneto region, mainly in Adige and Brenta rivers. In order to investigate any relevant presence of these substances in marine vertebrates constantly living in the area, PFAS were measured in hepatic tissue samples of 20 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) stranded along the northern Adriatic Sea coastline between 2008 and 2020. Using high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, 17 target PFAS (PFBA, PFPeA, PFHxA, PFHpA, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFUnA, PFDoA, PFTrDA, PFTeDA, PFBS, PFHxS, PFOS, PFDS, PFHpS, PFPeS), were quantified in the samples. PFAS profiles were generally composed of the same five dominant PFAS (PFOS > PFUnA > PFDA ≈ PFDoA ≈ PFTrDA). The greatest PFOS concentration found was 629,73 ng/g wet weight, and PFOS accounted until 71% in the PFAS profiles. No significant differences between sexes were found, while calves showing higher mean values than adults, possibly indicating an increasing ability in the elimination of PFAS with age. Finally, a temporal analysis was carried out considering three different periods of time, but no temporal differences in concentrations were found. The results suggest that long-chain PFAS are widespread in bottlenose dolphins along the North Adriatic Sea. Furthermore, they represent a baseline to investigate the impact of PFAS on marine mammals' conservation and health. Filling an important gap in the knowledge of PFAS accumulation in bottlenose dolphins, this study highlights the relevant role of Environmental and Tissue Banks for retrospective analyses on emergent contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Sciancalepore
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science BCA, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale Dell'Università, 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Guido Pietroluongo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science BCA, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale Dell'Università, 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Cinzia Centelleghe
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science BCA, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale Dell'Università, 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy.
| | - Massimo Milan
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science BCA, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale Dell'Università, 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Marco Bonato
- Department of Biology, Via Ugo Bassi 58/b, 35135, Padova, PD, Italy
| | - Giorgia Corazzola
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science BCA, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale Dell'Università, 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Sandro Mazzariol
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science BCA, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale Dell'Università, 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
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10
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Crespo-Picazo JL, Rubio-Guerri C, Jiménez MA, Aznar FJ, Marco-Cabedo V, Melero M, Sánchez-Vizcaíno JM, Gozalbes P, García-Párraga D. Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) aggressive behavior towards other cetacean species in the western Mediterranean. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21582. [PMID: 34732761 PMCID: PMC8566518 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00867-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aggressive behavior of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) towards conspecifics is widely described, but they have also often been reported attacking and killing harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) around the world. However, very few reports exist of aggressive interactions between bottlenose dolphins and other cetacean species. Here, we provide the first evidence that bottlenose dolphins in the western Mediterranean exhibit aggressive behavior towards both striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) and Risso’s dolphins (Grampus griseus). Necropsies and visual examination of stranded striped (14) and Risso’s (2) dolphins showed numerous lesions (external rake marks and different bone fractures or internal organ damage by blunt trauma). Indicatively, these lessons matched the inter-tooth distance and features of bottlenose dolphins. In all instances, these traumatic interactions were presumed to be the leading cause of the death. We discuss how habitat changes, dietary shifts, and/or human colonization of marine areas may be promoting these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Crespo-Picazo
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, C/Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1B, 46023, Valencia, Spain.
| | - C Rubio-Guerri
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, C/Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1B, 46023, Valencia, Spain.,Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad UCH CEU, 46115, Valencia, Spain
| | - M A Jiménez
- VISAVET Center and Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta del Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - F J Aznar
- Marine Zoology Unit, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Science Park, University of Valencia, 46071, Valencia, Spain
| | - V Marco-Cabedo
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, C/Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1B, 46023, Valencia, Spain
| | - M Melero
- VISAVET Center and Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta del Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - J M Sánchez-Vizcaíno
- VISAVET Center and Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta del Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - P Gozalbes
- Marine Zoology Unit, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Science Park, University of Valencia, 46071, Valencia, Spain
| | - D García-Párraga
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, C/Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1B, 46023, Valencia, Spain
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11
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Lauret V, Labach H, Authier M, Gimenez O. Using single visits into integrated occupancy models to make the most of existing monitoring programs. Ecology 2021; 102:e03535. [PMID: 34514594 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.3535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
A major challenge in statistical ecology consists of integrating knowledge from different data sets to produce robust ecological indicators. To estimate species distribution, occupancy models are a flexible framework that can accommodate several data sets obtained from different sampling methods. However, repeating visits at sampling sites is a prerequisite for using standard occupancy models. Occupancy models were recently developed to analyze detection/non-detection data collected during a single visit. To date, single-visit occupancy models have never been used to integrate several different data sets. Here, we showcase an approach that combines two data sets into an integrated single-visit occupancy model. As a case study, we estimated the distribution of common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) over the northwestern Mediterranean Sea by combining 24,624 km of aerial surveys and 21,464 km of at-sea monitoring. We compared the outputs of single- vs. repeated-visit occupancy models into integrated occupancy models. Integrated models allowed a better sampling coverage of the targeted population, which provided a better precision for occupancy estimates than occupancy models using data sets in isolation. Overall, single- and repeated-visit integrated occupancy models produced similar inference about the distribution of bottlenose dolphins. We suggest that single-visit occupancy models open promising perspectives for the use of existing ecological data sets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Lauret
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, 34000, France
| | - Hélène Labach
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, 34000, France
- MIRACETI, Connaissance et conservation des cétacés, Place des traceurs de pierres, La Couronne, 13500, France
| | - Matthieu Authier
- ADERA, 162 avenue Albert Schweitzer, Pessac Cedex, 33608, France
- Observatoire PELAGIS, UMS 3462, CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 5 allée de l'Océan, La Rochelle, 17000, France
| | - Olivier Gimenez
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, 34000, France
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12
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Bailey H, Fandel AD, Silva K, Gryzb E, McDonald E, Hoover AL, Ogburn MB, Rice AN. Identifying and predicting occurrence and abundance of a vocal animal species based on individually specific calls. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- H. Bailey
- Chesapeake Biological Laboratory University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Solomons Maryland 20688 USA
| | - A. D. Fandel
- Chesapeake Biological Laboratory University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Solomons Maryland 20688 USA
| | - K. Silva
- Chesapeake Biological Laboratory University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Solomons Maryland 20688 USA
| | - E. Gryzb
- Chesapeake Biological Laboratory University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Solomons Maryland 20688 USA
| | - E. McDonald
- Chesapeake Biological Laboratory University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Solomons Maryland 20688 USA
| | - A. L. Hoover
- Chesapeake Biological Laboratory University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Solomons Maryland 20688 USA
| | - M. B. Ogburn
- Smithsonian Environmental Research Center 647 Contees Wharf Road Edgewater Maryland 21037 USA
| | - A. N. Rice
- Center for Conservation Bioacoustics Cornell Lab of Ornithology Cornell University Ithaca New York 14850 USA
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13
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Frau S, Ronchetti F, Perretti F, Addis A, Ceccherelli G, La Manna G. The influence of fish farm activity on the social structure of the common bottlenose dolphin in Sardinia (Italy). PeerJ 2021; 9:e10960. [PMID: 33717695 PMCID: PMC7937346 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In a wide variety of habitats, including some heavily urbanised areas, the adaptability of populations of common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) may depend on the social structure dynamics. Nonetheless, the way in which these adaptations take place is still poorly understood. In the present study we applied photo-identification techniques to investigate the social structure of the common bottlenose dolphin population inhabiting the Gulf of Alghero (Sardinia, Italy), analysing data recorded from 2008 to 2019. The social structure analysis showed a division of the entire population into five different communities and the presence of non-random associations, while there was no evidence of segregation between sexes. Furthermore, results highlighted an important change in social structure through time, likely due to a reduction in fish farm activity since 2015. The division of the population into different communities, the presence of segregation based on the foraging strategy (inside or outside the fish farm area) and the social network measures were evaluated by analysing independently the two datasets: the intense and low farm activity periods: 2008–2014 and 2015–2020, respectively. Segregation among individuals belonging to the same foraging strategy class was found only in the earlier period, and the composition of the four communities was consistent with this result. Our study improves the knowledge about bottlenose dolphin adaptation, as a lower complexity in social structure was linked to a reduction in anthropogenic food availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Frau
- Environmental Research and Conservation, MareTerra Onlus, Alghero, Italy, Italy
| | - Fabio Ronchetti
- Environmental Research and Conservation, MareTerra Onlus, Alghero, Italy, Italy
| | - Francesco Perretti
- Environmental Research and Conservation, MareTerra Onlus, Alghero, Italy, Italy
| | - Alberto Addis
- Environmental Research and Conservation, MareTerra Onlus, Alghero, Italy, Italy
| | - Giulia Ceccherelli
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Farmacia, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy, Italy
| | - Gabriella La Manna
- Environmental Research and Conservation, MareTerra Onlus, Alghero, Italy, Italy.,Area Marina Protetta Capo Caccia Isola Piana, Alghero, Italy, Italy
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Ecosystem-Based MSP for Enhanced Fisheries Sustainability: An Example from the Northern Adriatic (Chioggia—Venice and Rovigo, Italy). SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13031211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Human pressures on marine ecosystems significantly increased during last decades. Among the intense anthropic activities, industrial fisheries have caused the alteration of habitats, the reduction of biodiversity and the main fish stocks. The aim of this research, carried out in the Adriatic Sea, was to test a repeatable Marine Spatial Planning framework aimed at enhancing fisheries sustainability through the application of Decision Support Tools and the composition of a catalog of possible measures. The use of these tools proved very useful to identify possible criticalities and facilitate an effective exchange with fisheries stakeholders, local authorities, and fishermen, whose involvement was an indispensable step in the process. Tool-based analyses allowed to assess the spatial footprint of a range of anthropogenic pressures from human activities (e.g., fisheries, maritime traffic, and aquaculture). Within this multi-pressure scenario, special attention was paid to fishing-related disturbances and potential conflicts across different fishing métier and with other sectors. Specifically, results highlighted the spatial features of the major fishing pressures (e.g., abrasion from trawling) affecting essential fish habitats, marine mammals and turtles in the study area. A portfolio of possible management measures is identified for the study area. It provides clear evidence that, in order to mitigate emerging conflicts and cumulative impacts, it is necessary to combine and integrate different types of measures: spatial measures modulated over time, monitoring and control, actions to fill knowledge gaps, concertation—involvement—co-management actions, improvement of governance systems, actions to support innovation in the sector, etc. Given the complex set of measures discussed, this work can provide a useful contribution to the management of fisheries both at local and regional level, fostering the transition to sustainable fisheries.
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15
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Jackson-Ricketts J, Junchompoo C, Hines EM, Hazen EL, Ponnampalam LS, Ilangakoon A, Monanunsap S. Habitat modeling of Irrawaddy dolphins ( Orcaella brevirostris) in the Eastern Gulf of Thailand. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:2778-2792. [PMID: 32211155 PMCID: PMC7083678 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM The Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) is an endangered cetacean found throughout Southeast Asia. The main threat to this species is human encroachment, led by entanglement in fishing gear. Information on this data-poor species' ecology and habitat use is needed to effectively inform spatial management. LOCATION We investigated the habitat of a previously unstudied group of Irrawaddy dolphins in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, between the villages of Laem Klat and Khlong Yai, in Trat Province. This location is important as government groups plan to establish a marine protected area. METHODS We carried out boat-based visual line transect surveys with concurrent oceanographic measurements and used hurdle models to evaluate this species' patterns of habitat use in this area. RESULTS Depth most strongly predicted dolphin presence, while temperature was a strong predictor of group size. The highest probability of dolphin presence occurred at around 10.0 m with an optimal depth range of 7.50 to 13.05 m. The greatest number of dolphins was predicted at 24.93°C with an optimal range between 24.93 and 25.31°C. Dolphins are most likely to occur in two primary locations, one large region in the center of the study area (11o54'18''N to 11o59'23''N) and a smaller region in the south (11o47'28''N to 11o49'59''N). Protections for this population will likely have the greatest chance of success in these two areas. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The results of this work can inform management strategies within the immediate study area by highlighting areas of high habitat use that should be considered for marine spatial planning measures, such as the creation of marine protected areas. Species distribution models for this species in Thailand can also assist conservation planning in other parts of the species' range by expanding our understanding of habitat preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Jackson-Ricketts
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Santa Cruz Santa Cruz California
- Present address: Independence Virginia
| | - Chalatip Junchompoo
- Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Marine and Coastal Resources Research and Development Center, The Eastern Gulf of Thailand Rayong Thailand
| | - Ellen M Hines
- Estuary & Ocean Science Center San Francisco State University Tiburon California
| | - Elliott L Hazen
- NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Environmental Research Division/Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Santa Cruz Monterey California
| | | | | | - Somchai Monanunsap
- Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Southern Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center Songkhla Thailand
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16
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Mazzoldi C, Bearzi G, Brito C, Carvalho I, Desiderà E, Endrizzi L, Freitas L, Giacomello E, Giovos I, Guidetti P, Ressurreição A, Tull M, MacDiarmid A. From sea monsters to charismatic megafauna: Changes in perception and use of large marine animals. PLoS One 2020; 14:e0226810. [PMID: 31891944 PMCID: PMC6938407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine megafauna has always elicited contrasting feelings. In the past, large marine animals were often depicted as fantastic mythological creatures and dangerous monsters, while also arousing human curiosity. Marine megafauna has been a valuable resource to exploit, leading to the collapse of populations and local extinctions. In addition, some species have been perceived as competitors of fishers for marine resources and were often actively culled. Since the 1970s, there has been a change in the perception and use of megafauna. The growth of marine tourism, increasingly oriented towards the observation of wildlife, has driven a shift from extractive to non-extractive use, supporting the conservation of at least some species of marine megafauna. In this paper, we review and compare the changes in the perception and use of three megafaunal groups, cetaceans, elasmobranchs and groupers, with a special focus on European cultures. We highlight the main drivers and the timing of these changes, compare different taxonomic groups and species, and highlight the implications for management and conservation. One of the main drivers of the shift in perception, shared by all the three groups of megafauna, has been a general increase in curiosity towards wildlife, stimulated inter alia by documentaries (from the early 1970s onwards), and also promoted by easy access to scuba diving. At the same time, environmental campaigns have been developed to raise public awareness regarding marine wildlife, especially cetaceans, a process greatly facilitated by the rise of Internet and the World Wide Web. Currently, all the three groups (cetaceans, elasmobranchs and groupers) may represent valuable resources for ecotourism. Strikingly, the economic value of live specimens may exceed their value for human consumption. A further change in perception involving all the three groups is related to a growing understanding and appreciation of their key ecological role. The shift from extractive to non-extractive use has the potential for promoting species conservation and local economic growth. However, the change in use may not benefit the original stakeholders (e.g. fishers or whalers) and there may therefore be a case for providing compensation for disadvantaged stakeholders. Moreover, it is increasingly clear that even non-extractive use may have a negative impact on marine megafauna, therefore regulations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Mazzoldi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- CoNISMa (Interuniversitary Consortium of Marine Sciences), Rome, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Cristina Brito
- CHAM—Center for the Humanities, NOVA FCSH/Uaç, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associação para as Ciências do Mar, APCM, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Carvalho
- Associação para as Ciências do Mar, APCM, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, IGC, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Elena Desiderà
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, UMR 7035 ECOSEAS, Nice, France
| | - Lara Endrizzi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Luis Freitas
- Museu da Baleia da Madeira, Caniçal, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Eva Giacomello
- MARE–Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Horta, Portugal
- IMAR-Instituto do Mar, Horta, Portugal
- OKEANOS Centre, University of the Azores, Horta, Portugal
| | - Ioannis Giovos
- iSea, Environmental Organisation for the Preservation of the Aquatic Ecosystems, Greece
| | - Paolo Guidetti
- CoNISMa (Interuniversitary Consortium of Marine Sciences), Rome, Italy
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, UMR 7035 ECOSEAS, Nice, France
| | - Adriana Ressurreição
- MARE–Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Horta, Portugal
- OKEANOS Centre, University of the Azores, Horta, Portugal
- CCMAR Centre of Marine Sciences, Faro, Portugal
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17
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Methion S, Díaz López B. Individual foraging variation drives social organization in bottlenose dolphins. Behav Ecol 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arz160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Identifying foraging variation within a population and assessing its relationship with social structure is essential to increase knowledge about the evolution of social systems. Here, we investigated individual foraging variation in bottlenose dolphins and its potential influence on their social organization. We used generalized affiliation indices and applied social network analysis to data collected over four consecutive years of research in a coastal area subject to significant use and pressure by humans. Our findings revealed variation in foraging behavior among individual bottlenose dolphins, which in turn shapes their social organization. Our results indicated that individuals that frequently foraged within human-altered areas (i.e., shellfish farms) exhibited weaker Strength, Reach, and Affinity compared to others. These bottlenose dolphins profit from a reliable and easily located food source, which may increase their energy intake and interindividual competition. In contrast, individuals that foraged less frequently within the shellfish farms occupied a central position within the network and exhibited strong associations. These individuals may benefit from increased cooperation and reduced intragroup competition, thus increasing learning and information sharing, as they may face a patchy and irregular distribution of prey. We also demonstrated that bottlenose dolphins preferred to affiliate with other individuals with similar foraging strategies (i.e., homophily), which could promote, through time, a segregation of the population into behaviorally distinct groups. These findings provide valuable insight into the evolution of bottlenose dolphin social systems and their response to human-induced changes in the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Séverine Methion
- Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI), Avenida Beiramar, O Grove, Pontevedra, Spain
- Université Bordeaux, UMR CNRS 5805 EPOC, Allee Geoffroy St Hilaire, Pessac Cedex, France
| | - Bruno Díaz López
- Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI), Avenida Beiramar, O Grove, Pontevedra, Spain
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Genov T, Jepson PD, Barber JL, Hace A, Gaspari S, Centrih T, Lesjak J, Kotnjek P. Linking organochlorine contaminants with demographic parameters in free-ranging common bottlenose dolphins from the northern Adriatic Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 657:200-212. [PMID: 30537581 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Marine top predators, including marine mammals, are known to bio-accumulate persistent pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a serious conservation concern for these species. Although PCBs declined in European seas since the 1970s-1980s ban, considerable levels still persist in European and Mediterranean waters. In cetaceans, stranded animals are a valuable source of samples for pollutant studies, but may introduce both known and unknown biases. Biopsy samples from live, free-ranging cetaceans offer a better alternative for evaluating toxicological burdens of populations, especially when linked to known histories of identified individuals. We evaluated PCB and other organochlorine contaminants in free-ranging common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from the Gulf of Trieste (northern Adriatic Sea), one of the most human-impacted areas in the Mediterranean Sea. Biopsies were collected from 32 male and female dolphins during 2011-2017. All animals were photo-identified and are part of a well-known population of about 150 individuals monitored since 2002. We tested for the effects of sex, parity and social group membership on contaminant concentrations. Males had significantly higher organochlorine concentrations than females, suggesting offloading from reproducing females to their offspring via gestation and/or lactation. Furthermore, nulliparous females had substantially higher concentrations than parous ones, providing further support for maternal offloading of contaminants. Overall, 87.5% of dolphins had PCB concentrations above the toxicity threshold for physiological effects in experimental marine mammal studies (9 mg/kg lw), while 65.6% had concentrations above the highest threshold published for marine mammals based on reproductive impairment in ringed seals (41 mg/kg lw). The potential population-level effects of such high contaminant levels are of concern particularly in combination with other known or suspected threats to this population. We demonstrate the utility of combining contaminant data with demographic parameters such as sex, reproductive output, etc., resulting from long-term studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilen Genov
- Morigenos - Slovenian Marine Mammal Society, Kidričevo nabrežje 4, 6330 Piran, Slovenia; Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, Fife KY16 8LB, UK.
| | - Paul D Jepson
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Jonathan L Barber
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Ana Hace
- Morigenos - Slovenian Marine Mammal Society, Kidričevo nabrežje 4, 6330 Piran, Slovenia
| | - Stefania Gaspari
- Italian National Research Council, Institute of Marine Sciences (CNR-ISMAR), Arsenale - Tesa 104, Castello 2737/F, 30122 Venice, Italy
| | - Tina Centrih
- Morigenos - Slovenian Marine Mammal Society, Kidričevo nabrežje 4, 6330 Piran, Slovenia
| | - Jan Lesjak
- Morigenos - Slovenian Marine Mammal Society, Kidričevo nabrežje 4, 6330 Piran, Slovenia
| | - Polona Kotnjek
- Morigenos - Slovenian Marine Mammal Society, Kidričevo nabrežje 4, 6330 Piran, Slovenia
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Díaz López B. “Hot deals at sea”: responses of a top predator (Bottlenose dolphin,Tursiops truncatus) to human-induced changes in the coastal ecosystem. Behav Ecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/ary162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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20
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Bigal E, Morick D, Scheinin AP, Salant H, Berkowitz A, King R, Levy Y, Melero M, Sánchez-Vizcaíno JM, Goffman O, Hadar N, Roditi-Elasar M, Tchernov D. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in three common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus); A first description from the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Vet Parasitol 2018; 258:74-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/09/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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21
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Barragán-Barrera DC, May-Collado LJ, Tezanos-Pinto G, Islas-Villanueva V, Correa-Cárdenas CA, Caballero S. High genetic structure and low mitochondrial diversity in bottlenose dolphins of the Archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Panama: A population at risk? PLoS One 2017; 12:e0189370. [PMID: 29236757 PMCID: PMC5728558 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The current conservation status of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) under the IUCN is ‘least concern’. However, in the Caribbean, small and localized populations of the ‘inshore form’ may be at higher risk of extinction than the ‘worldwide distributed form’ due to a combination of factors including small population size, high site fidelity, genetic isolation, and range overlap with human activities. Here, we study the population genetic structure of bottlenose dolphins from the Archipelago of Bocas del Toro in Panama. This is a small population characterized by high site fidelity and is currently heavily-impacted by the local dolphin-watching industry. We collected skin tissue samples from 25 dolphins to study the genetic diversity and structure of this population. We amplified a portion of the mitochondrial Control Region (mtDNA-CR) and nine microsatellite loci. The mtDNA-CR analyses revealed that dolphins in Bocas del Toro belong to the ‘inshore form’, grouped with the Bahamas-Colombia-Cuba-Mexico population unit. They also possess a unique haplotype new for the Caribbean. The microsatellite data indicated that the Bocas del Toro dolphin population is highly structured, likely due to restricted movement patterns. Previous abundance estimates obtained with mark-recapture methods reported a small population of 80 dolphins (95% CI = 72–87), which is similar to the contemporary effective population size estimated in this study (Ne = 73 individuals; CI = 18.0 - ∞; 0.05). The combination of small population size, high degree of genetic isolation, and intense daily interactions with dolphin-watching boats puts the Bocas del Toro dolphin to at high risk of extinction. Despite national guidelines to regulate the dolphin-watching industry in Bocas del Toro and ongoing educational programs for tour operators, only in 2012 seven animals have died due to boat collisions. Our results suggest that the conservation status of bottlenose dolphins in Bocas del Toro should be elevated to ‘endangered’ at the national level, as a precautionary measure while population and viability estimates are conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia C. Barragán-Barrera
- Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular de Vertebrados Acuáticos LEMVA, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Laboratorio J-202, Bogotá, Colombia
- Fundación Macuáticos Colombia, Medellín, Colombia
- * E-mail:
| | - Laura J. May-Collado
- Department of Biology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
- Centro de Investigaciones del Mar y Limnología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | | | - Valentina Islas-Villanueva
- CONACYT, Universidad del Mar, Instituto de Genética, Ciudad Universitaria, Puerto Ángel, Distrito de San Pedro Pochutla, Oaxaca, México
| | - Camilo A. Correa-Cárdenas
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Básicas, Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Central, Bogotá, Colombia
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad de La Salle, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Susana Caballero
- Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular de Vertebrados Acuáticos LEMVA, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Laboratorio J-202, Bogotá, Colombia
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Guidarelli G, Colangelo P, de Francesco MC, Nicolosi P, Meloro C, Loy A. Phenotypic Changes Across a Geographic Gradient: The Case of Three Sympatric Dolphin Species. Evol Biol 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s11692-017-9435-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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23
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Assessing the relationship between cetacean strandings (Tursiops truncatus and Stenella coeruleoalba) and fishery pressure indicators in Sicily (Mediterranean Sea) within the framework of the EU Habitats Directive. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-017-1111-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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24
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Bearzi G, Bonizzoni S, Santostasi NL, Furey NB, Eddy L, Valavanis VD, Gimenez O. Dolphins in a Scaled-Down Mediterranean: The Gulf of Corinth's Odontocetes. ADVANCES IN MARINE BIOLOGY 2016; 75:297-331. [PMID: 27770988 DOI: 10.1016/bs.amb.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The Gulf of Corinth is a 2400-km2 semi-enclosed inland system (a mediterraneus) in central Greece. Its continental shelf areas, steep bottom relief, and waters up to 500-900m deep offer suitable habitat to neritic and pelagic species. We used photographic capture-recapture, distribution modelling, and direct observations to investigate the abundance, status, habitat preferences, movements, and group size of four odontocete species regularly observed in the Gulf, based on five years (2011-2015) of survey effort from small boats. Striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) are more abundant (1324 individuals, 95%CI 1158-1515) than was determined from previous estimates. Striped dolphins appear to be confined to the Gulf, where they favour deep and oligotrophic waters, and were encountered in single-species and mixed-species groups. Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) (22 individuals, 95%CI 16-31), individuals with intermediate pigmentation (possibly striped/common dolphin hybrids) (55, 95%CI 36-83), and a single Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus) were only encountered in mixed-species groups with striped dolphins. Short-beaked common dolphins constitute a discrete conservation unit (subpopulation), and based on the current estimate, would qualify as Critically Endangered according to International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List criteria. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) (39 animals, 95%CI 33-47) occur in single-species groups; they prefer continental shelf waters and areas near fish farms in the northern sector, and several animals appear to move into and out of the Gulf. Additionally, we contribute records of marine fauna and an assessment of the fishing fleet operating in the Gulf. Our study shows that the importance of this vulnerable marine environment has been underestimated, and management action must be taken to mitigate human impact and ensure long-term protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Bearzi
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; OceanCare, Wädenswil, Switzerland; Texas A&M University at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States.
| | - S Bonizzoni
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; OceanCare, Wädenswil, Switzerland; Texas A&M University at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - N L Santostasi
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, Montpellier, France
| | - N B Furey
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - L Eddy
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; OceanCare, Wädenswil, Switzerland
| | - V D Valavanis
- Marine Geographic Information Systems Lab, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Heraklion, Greece
| | - O Gimenez
- Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, Montpellier, France
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25
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Gonzalvo J, Lauriano G, Hammond PS, Viaud-Martinez KA, Fossi MC, Natoli A, Marsili L. The Gulf of Ambracia's Common Bottlenose Dolphins, Tursiops truncatus: A Highly Dense and yet Threatened Population. ADVANCES IN MARINE BIOLOGY 2016; 75:259-296. [PMID: 27770987 DOI: 10.1016/bs.amb.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is the only cetacean present in the semiclosed waters of the Gulf of Ambracia, Western Greece. This increasingly degraded coastal ecosystem hosts one of the highest observed densities in the Mediterranean Sea for this species. Photo-identification data and tissue samples collected through skin-swabbing and remote biopsy sampling techniques during boat-based surveys conducted between 2006 and 2015 in the Gulf, were used to examine bottlenose dolphin abundance, population trends, site fidelity, genetic differentiation and toxicological status. Bottlenose dolphins showed high levels of year-round site fidelity throughout the 10-year study period. Dolphin population estimates mostly fell between 130 and 170 with CVs averaging about 10%; a trend in population size over the 10 years was a decline of 1.6% per year (but this was not significant). Genetic differentiation between the bottlenose dolphins of the Gulf and their conspecifics from neighbouring populations was detected, and low genetic diversity was found among individuals sampled. In addition, pesticides where identified as factors posing a real toxicological problem for local bottlenose dolphins. Therefore, in the Gulf of Ambracia, high dolphin density does not seem to be indicative of favourable conservation status or pristine habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Gonzalvo
- Tethys Research Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - G Lauriano
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Roma, Italy
| | - P S Hammond
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Gatty Marine Laboratory, University of St Andrews, Fife, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - A Natoli
- UAE Dolphin Project, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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26
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Expected Effects of Offshore Wind Farms on Mediterranean Marine Life. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2016. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse4010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Marini C, Fossa F, Paoli C, Bellingeri M, Gnone G, Vassallo P. Predicting bottlenose dolphin distribution along Liguria coast (northwestern Mediterranean Sea) through different modeling techniques and indirect predictors. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2015; 150:9-20. [PMID: 25460419 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2014.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Habitat modeling is an important tool to investigate the quality of the habitat for a species within a certain area, to predict species distribution and to understand the ecological processes behind it. Many species have been investigated by means of habitat modeling techniques mainly to address effective management and protection policies and cetaceans play an important role in this context. The bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) has been investigated with habitat modeling techniques since 1997. The objectives of this work were to predict the distribution of bottlenose dolphin in a coastal area through the use of static morphological features and to compare the prediction performances of three different modeling techniques: Generalized Linear Model (GLM), Generalized Additive Model (GAM) and Random Forest (RF). Four static variables were tested: depth, bottom slope, distance from 100 m bathymetric contour and distance from coast. RF revealed itself both the most accurate and the most precise modeling technique with very high distribution probabilities predicted in presence cells (90.4% of mean predicted probabilities) and with 66.7% of presence cells with a predicted probability comprised between 90% and 100%. The bottlenose distribution obtained with RF allowed the identification of specific areas with particularly high presence probability along the coastal zone; the recognition of these core areas may be the starting point to develop effective management practices to improve T. truncatus protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Marini
- DISTAV, Università di Genova, Corso Europa 26, 16132 Genova, Italy; Acquario di Genova, Area Porto Antico-Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genova, Italy.
| | - F Fossa
- Acquario di Genova, Area Porto Antico-Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genova, Italy
| | - C Paoli
- DISTAV, Università di Genova, Corso Europa 26, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - M Bellingeri
- Acquario di Genova, Area Porto Antico-Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genova, Italy
| | - G Gnone
- Acquario di Genova, Area Porto Antico-Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genova, Italy
| | - P Vassallo
- DISTAV, Università di Genova, Corso Europa 26, 16132 Genova, Italy.
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Drivers of Population Structure of the Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Evol Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11692-015-9309-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Blasi MF, Boitani L. Complex Social Structure of an Endangered Population of Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Aeolian Archipelago (Italy). PLoS One 2014; 9:e114849. [PMID: 25494331 PMCID: PMC4262461 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated social structure and association patterns for a small population of Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, inhabiting the Aeolian Archipelago (southern Italy). Specifically we evaluate the role of sex and age composition, residency patterns and interaction with trammel nets on this social organization. Association data for 23 regularly sighted individuals were obtained from summer photoidentification surveys collected from 2005-2012. Using a combined cluster and social network analysis approach, we found associations between dolphins were hierarchically structured, where two mixed-sex social units were subdivided into smaller temporarily dynamic groups. We found non-random and long-term preferred associations in the population; however, the degree of social cohesion, residence pattern and interaction with trammel nets differed considerably between the two social units. Six of eight females occurred in the more resident social unit-1; in addition, social unit-1 individuals had significantly stronger associations, higher preferred associates, lived in larger groups and occurred less frequently with trammel nets. Nine of eleven males were clustered in social unit-2 and five of these males, interacting with trammel nets, formed small groups and preferred associations. We propose that female and male groups associate in the study area during the breeding season and that some males choose to interact with reproductive females forming a distinct but interrelated social unit. Other males may be associating in a larger fission-fusion network, which consists of dolphins that appear to temporarily join the network from the coastal population. We cannot exclude that some males specialized in trammel net foraging, suggesting that this foraging technique may favor a solitary lifestyle. Large group sizes and high degree of social cohesion for females could be an indication of greater protection and more efficiency in detecting, deterring or repelling anthropogenic pressures. Most likely dolphins' social organization depends on a combination of socio-ecological, demographic and anthropogenic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica F. Blasi
- Filicudi WildLife Conservation, Località Stimpagnato Filicudi, 98055, Lipari (ME), Italy
| | - Luigi Boitani
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University ‘La Sapienza’, Viale dell' Università 32, 00185, Rome, Italy
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Lauriano G, Pierantonio N, Donovan G, Panigada S. Abundance and distribution of Tursiops truncatus in the Western Mediterranean Sea: an assessment towards the Marine Strategy Framework Directive requirements. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2014; 100:86-93. [PMID: 24784442 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2014.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Revised: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea common bottlenose dolphin population has been assessed as Vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List Criteria. The species is also included in several International Agreements, European Union Regulations and Directives. Amongst them, a strict protection and identification of special conservation areas are requested by the EU Habitats Directive. Despite direct takes, by-catch, chemical and acoustic pollution, and prey depletion, general habitat degradation and fragmentation have been indicated as detrimental for the species, the degree to which these threats pose population risk is still largely unknown. At present it is thus not possible to depict the actual status of the population and to assess prospective trends. To address this gap in the current knowledge, line transect distance sampling aerial surveys were conducted in a wide portion of the Western Mediterranean Sea between the summer of 2010 and winter 2011. A total of 165 parallel transects equally spaced at 15 km were designed providing homogeneous coverage probability. Overall, 21,090 km were flown on effort and 16 bottlenose dolphin sightings were recorded and used for the analysis. The surface abundance and density estimates resulted in 1676 animals (CV = 38.25; 95% CI = 804-3492) with a density of 0.005 (CV = 38.25%). These results represent the first ever estimates for the common bottlenose dolphin over a wide portion of the Western Mediterranean Sea Subregion, with the potential to be useful baseline data to inform conservation. Specifically, they could be used as indicators under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive requirements, in conjunction with other study methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Lauriano
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via V. Brancati 60, 00144 Roma, Italy.
| | - Nino Pierantonio
- Tethys Research Institute, Viale G.B. Gadio 2, 20121 Milano, Italy
| | - Greg Donovan
- The International Whaling Commission, The Red House, 135 Station Road, Impington, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB24 9NP, UK
| | - Simone Panigada
- Tethys Research Institute, Viale G.B. Gadio 2, 20121 Milano, Italy; Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via V. Brancati 60, 00144 Roma, Italy
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Guidarelli G, Nicolosi P, Fusco G, de Francesco MC, Loy A. Morphological variation and modularity in the mandible of three Mediterranean dolphin species. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/11250003.2014.943685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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32
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Spitz J, Ridoux V, Brind'Amour A. Let's go beyond taxonomy in diet description: testing a trait-based approach to prey-predator relationships. J Anim Ecol 2014; 83:1137-48. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.12218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Spitz
- Littoral Environnement & Sociétés; UMR 7266 Université de La Rochelle/CNRS; 17042 La Rochelle France
- Marine Mammal Research Unit; Fisheries Centre; University of British Columbia; 2202 Main Mall Vancouver BC V6T 1Z4 Canada
| | - Vincent Ridoux
- Observatoire PELAGIS - Système d'Observation pour la Conservation des Mammifères et Oiseaux Marins; UMS 3462; CNRS/Université de La Rochelle; 17071 La Rochelle France
- Centre d'études biologiques de Chizé - La Rochelle; UMR 7372; Université de La Rochelle/CNRS; 79360 Villiers en Bois France
| | - Anik Brind'Amour
- Ifremer; Département Écologie et Modèles pour l'Halieutique; Rue de l'île d'Yeu; BP 21105 44311 Nantes France
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Fortibuoni T, Noventa S, Rampazzo F, Gion C, Formalewicz M, Berto D, Raicevich S. Evidence of butyltin biomagnification along the Northern Adriatic food-web (Mediterranean Sea) elucidated by stable isotope ratios. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2013; 47:3370-3377. [PMID: 23465397 DOI: 10.1021/es304875b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The biomagnification of tributyltin (TBT), dibutyltin (DBT), monobutyltin (MBT), and total butyltins (ΣBT) was analyzed in the Northern Adriatic food-web (Mediterranean) considering trophodynamic interactions among species and carbon sources in the food-web. Although it is acknowledged that these contaminants bioaccumulate in marine organisms, it is still controversial whether they biomagnify along food-webs. A wide range of species was considered, from plankton feeders to top predators, whose trophic level (TL) was assessed measuring the biological enrichment of nitrogen stable isotopes (δ(15)N). Carbon isotopic signature (δ(13)C) was used to trace carbon sources in the food-web (terrestrial vs marine). At least one butyltin species was detected in the majority of samples, and TBT was the predominant contaminant. A significant positive relationship was found between TL and butyltin concentrations, implying food-web biomagnification. Coherently, the Trophic Magnification Factor resulted higher than 1, ranging between 3.88 for ΣBT and 4.62 for DBT. A negative but not significant correlation was instead found between δ(13)C and butyltin concentrations, indicating a slight decreasing gradient of contaminants concentrations in species according to the coastal influence as carbon source in their diet. However, trophodynamic mechanisms are likely more important factors in determining butyltin distribution in the Northern Adriatic food-web.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaso Fortibuoni
- Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, ISPRA, Loc Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, VE, Italy
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Gračan R, Buršić M, Mladineo I, Kučinić M, Lazar B, Lacković G. Gastrointestinal helminth community of loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta in the Adriatic Sea. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2012; 99:227-236. [PMID: 22832721 DOI: 10.3354/dao02490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
We analysed the intestinal helminth community of 70 loggerhead sea turtles Caretta caretta with a curved carapace length ranging from 25 to 85.4 cm, recovered dead in neritic foraging habitats in the Adriatic Sea in 1995 to 2004. The overall prevalence of infection was high (70.0%), with a mean abundance of 36.8 helminth parasites per turtle. Helminth fauna comprised 5 trematodes (Calycodes anthos, Enodiotrema megachondrus, Orchidasma amphiorchis, Pachypsolus irroratus, Rhytidodes gelatinosus) and 3 nematodes (Sulcascaris sulcata, Anisakis spp., Hysterothylacium sp.), with 6 taxa specific for marine turtles. In terms of infection intensity and parasite abundance, O. amphiorchis was the dominant species (mean intensity: 49.8; mean abundance: 12.8), followed by R. gelatinosus (30.5 and 8.3, respectively) and P. irroratus (23.5 and 7.0, respectively), while larval Anisakis spp. exhibited the highest prevalence (34.3%). The intensity of helminth infection ranged from 1 to 302 (mean: 52.6 ± 69.1) and was not correlated with the size of turtles; this relationship held for all species, except R. gelatinosus (rS = 0.556, p < 0.05). In comparison to other marine habitats, the helminth community of Adriatic loggerheads is characterised by higher species diversity (Shannon-Wiener H' = 1.58) and evenness (E = 0.76), and lower dominance values (Berger-Parker d = 0.35), which can be attributed to the life history and feeding ecology of sea turtles in recruited neritic grounds and the diversity of their benthic prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romana Gračan
- Division of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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35
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Blasi MF, Boitani L. Modelling fine-scale distribution of the bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus using physiographic features on Filicudi (southern Thyrrenian Sea, Italy). ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2012. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Pace DS, Pulcini M, Triossi F. Anthropogenic food patches and association patterns of Tursiops truncatus at Lampedusa island, Italy. Behav Ecol 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arr180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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38
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High genetic diversity and possible evidence of a recent bottleneck in Adriatic bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Mamm Biol 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2010.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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39
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Bearzi G, Bonizzoni S, Gonzalvo J. Mid-distance movements of common bottlenose dolphins in the coastal waters of Greece. J ETHOL 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s10164-010-0245-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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40
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Coll M, Piroddi C, Steenbeek J, Kaschner K, Ben Rais Lasram F, Aguzzi J, Ballesteros E, Bianchi CN, Corbera J, Dailianis T, Danovaro R, Estrada M, Froglia C, Galil BS, Gasol JM, Gertwagen R, Gil J, Guilhaumon F, Kesner-Reyes K, Kitsos MS, Koukouras A, Lampadariou N, Laxamana E, López-Fé de la Cuadra CM, Lotze HK, Martin D, Mouillot D, Oro D, Raicevich S, Rius-Barile J, Saiz-Salinas JI, San Vicente C, Somot S, Templado J, Turon X, Vafidis D, Villanueva R, Voultsiadou E. The biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea: estimates, patterns, and threats. PLoS One 2010; 5:e11842. [PMID: 20689844 PMCID: PMC2914016 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0011842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 565] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2010] [Accepted: 06/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea is a marine biodiversity hot spot. Here we combined an extensive literature analysis with expert opinions to update publicly available estimates of major taxa in this marine ecosystem and to revise and update several species lists. We also assessed overall spatial and temporal patterns of species diversity and identified major changes and threats. Our results listed approximately 17,000 marine species occurring in the Mediterranean Sea. However, our estimates of marine diversity are still incomplete as yet-undescribed species will be added in the future. Diversity for microbes is substantially underestimated, and the deep-sea areas and portions of the southern and eastern region are still poorly known. In addition, the invasion of alien species is a crucial factor that will continue to change the biodiversity of the Mediterranean, mainly in its eastern basin that can spread rapidly northwards and westwards due to the warming of the Mediterranean Sea. Spatial patterns showed a general decrease in biodiversity from northwestern to southeastern regions following a gradient of production, with some exceptions and caution due to gaps in our knowledge of the biota along the southern and eastern rims. Biodiversity was also generally higher in coastal areas and continental shelves, and decreases with depth. Temporal trends indicated that overexploitation and habitat loss have been the main human drivers of historical changes in biodiversity. At present, habitat loss and degradation, followed by fishing impacts, pollution, climate change, eutrophication, and the establishment of alien species are the most important threats and affect the greatest number of taxonomic groups. All these impacts are expected to grow in importance in the future, especially climate change and habitat degradation. The spatial identification of hot spots highlighted the ecological importance of most of the western Mediterranean shelves (and in particular, the Strait of Gibraltar and the adjacent Alboran Sea), western African coast, the Adriatic, and the Aegean Sea, which show high concentrations of endangered, threatened, or vulnerable species. The Levantine Basin, severely impacted by the invasion of species, is endangered as well. This abstract has been translated to other languages (File S1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Coll
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, Scientific Spanish Council (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain.
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41
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Piroddi C, Giovanni B, Villy C. Effects of local fisheries and ocean productivity on the northeastern Ionian Sea ecosystem. Ecol Modell 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2010.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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