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Sutera A, Bonaviri C, Spinelli P, Carimi F, De Michele R. Fruit encasing preserves the dispersal potential and viability of stranded Posidonia oceanica seeds. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6218. [PMID: 38486018 PMCID: PMC10940675 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56536-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Posidonia oceanica meadows are the most productive coastal ecosystem in the Mediterranean. Posidonia oceanica seeds are enclosed in buoyant fleshy fruits that allow dispersal. Many fruits eventually strand on beaches, imposing a remarkable energy cost for the plant. This study aims to assess whether stranded seeds retain functional reproductive potential under a variety of environmental conditions. First, we measured the possibility that seeds could be returned to the sea, by tagging fruits and seeds. Second, we quantified the effect of air, sun and heat exposure on the viability and fitness of stranded fruits and naked seeds. The results showed that on average more than half of fruits and seeds are returned to the sea after stranding events and that fruits significantly protect from desiccation and loss of viability. Furthermore, in fruits exposed to the sun and in naked seeds, seedlings development was slower. This study indicates that a significant portion of stranded P. oceanica fruits have a second chance to recruit and develop into young seedlings, relieving the paradox of large energy investment in seed production and apparent low recruitment rate. Additionally, we provide practical indications for seed collection aimed at maximizing seedling production, useful in meadow restoration campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Sutera
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), Italian National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Chiara Bonaviri
- Department of Earth and Sea Sciences, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 22, 90123, Palermo, Italy
- Fano Marine Center, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 61032, Fano, Italy
| | - Patrizia Spinelli
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), Italian National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Carimi
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), Italian National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto De Michele
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), Italian National Research Council (CNR), Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy.
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2
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Tol SJ, Carter AB, York PH, Jarvis JC, Grech A, Congdon BC, Coles RG. Vegetative fragment production as a means of propagule dispersal for tropical seagrass meadows. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 191:106160. [PMID: 37678099 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.106160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Long distance dispersal (LDD) contributes to the replenishment and recovery of tropical seagrass habitats exposed to disturbance, such as cyclones and infrastructure development. However, our current knowledge regarding the physical attributes of seagrass fragments that influence LDD predominantly stems from temperate species and regions. The goal of this paper is to measure seagrass fragment density and viability in two tropical species, assessing various factors influencing their distribution. METHODS We measured the density and viability of floating seagrass fragments for two tropical seagrass species (Zostera muelleri and Halodule uninervis) in two coastal seagrass meadows in the central Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, Australia. We assessed the effect of wind speed, wind direction, seagrass growing/senescent season, seagrass meadow density, meadow location and dugong foraging intensity on fragment density. We also measured seagrass fragment structure and fragment viability; i.e., potential to establish into a new plant. KEY RESULTS We found that seagrass meadow density, season, wind direction and wind speed influenced total fragment density, while season and wind speed influenced the density of viable fragments. Dugong foraging intensity did not influence fragment density. Our results indicate that wave action from winds combined with high seagrass meadow density increases seagrass fragment creation, and that more fragments are produced during the growing than the senescent season. Seagrass fragments classified as viable for Z. muelleri and H. uninervis had significantly more shoots and leaves than non-viable fragments. We collected 0.63 (±0.08 SE) floating viable fragments 100 m-2 in the growing season, and 0.13 (±0.03 SE) viable fragments 100 m-2 in the senescent season. Over a third (38%) of all fragments collected were viable. CONCLUSION There is likely to be a large number of viable seagrass fragments available for long distance dispersal. This study's outputs can inform dispersal and connectivity models that are used to direct seagrass ecosystem management and conservation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Tol
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, Cairns, Australia; College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia.
| | - A B Carter
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - P H York
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - J C Jarvis
- University of North Carolina Wilmington, USA
| | - A Grech
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - B C Congdon
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - R G Coles
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
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3
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Kendrick GA, Cambridge ML, Orth RJ, Fraser MW, Hovey RK, Statton J, Pattiaratchi CB, Sinclair EA. The cycle of seagrass life: From flowers to new meadows. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10456. [PMID: 37664509 PMCID: PMC10469021 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding sexual reproduction and recruitment in seagrasses is crucial to their conservation and restoration. Flowering, seed production, seed recruitment, and seedling establishment data for the seagrass Posidonia australis was collected annually between 2013 and 2018 in meadows at six locations around Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Variable annual rates of flowering and seed production were observed among meadows between northern and southern sides of the island and among years. Meadows on the northern shore consistently flowered more intensely and produced more seeds across the years of the survey. Inter-site variation in clonal diversity and size of clones, seed production, wind and surface currents during pollen and seed release, and the large, but variable, impact of seed predation are likely the principal drivers of successful recruitment into established meadows and in colonizing unvegetated sands. The prolific but variable annual reproductive investment increases the probability of low levels of continuous recruitment from seed in this seagrass, despite high rates of abiotic and biotic disturbance at seedling, shoot, and patch scales. This strategy also imparts a level of ecological resilience to this long-lived and persistent species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary A. Kendrick
- School of Biological Sciences and UWA Oceans InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern AustraliaCrawleyAustralia
| | - Marion L. Cambridge
- School of Biological Sciences and UWA Oceans InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern AustraliaCrawleyAustralia
| | - Robert J. Orth
- Virginia Institute of Marine ScienceCollege of William and MaryGloucester PointVirginiaUSA
| | - Matthew W. Fraser
- School of Biological Sciences and UWA Oceans InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern AustraliaCrawleyAustralia
| | - Renae K. Hovey
- School of Biological Sciences and UWA Oceans InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern AustraliaCrawleyAustralia
| | - John Statton
- School of Biological Sciences and UWA Oceans InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern AustraliaCrawleyAustralia
| | - Charitha B. Pattiaratchi
- Oceans Graduate School and UWA Oceans InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Elizabeth A. Sinclair
- School of Biological Sciences and UWA Oceans InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern AustraliaCrawleyAustralia
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4
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Hernawan UE, van Dijk K, Kendrick GA, Feng M, Berry O, Kavazos C, McMahon K. Ocean connectivity and habitat characteristics predict population genetic structure of seagrass in an extreme tropical setting. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10257. [PMID: 37404702 PMCID: PMC10316484 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding patterns of gene flow and processes driving genetic differentiation is important for a broad range of conservation practices. In marine organisms, genetic differentiation among populations is influenced by a range of spatial, oceanographic, and environmental factors that are attributed to the seascape. The relative influences of these factors may vary in different locations and can be measured using seascape genetic approaches. Here, we applied a seascape genetic approach to populations of the seagrass, Thalassia hemprichii, at a fine spatial scale (~80 km) in the Kimberley coast, western Australia, a complex seascape with strong, multidirectional currents greatly influenced by extreme tidal ranges (up to 11 m, the world's largest tropical tides). We incorporated genetic data from a panel of 16 microsatellite markers, overwater distance, oceanographic data derived from predicted passive dispersal on a 2 km-resolution hydrodynamic model, and habitat characteristics from each meadow sampled. We detected significant spatial genetic structure and asymmetric gene flow, in which meadows 12-14 km apart were less connected than ones 30-50 km apart. This pattern was explained by oceanographic connectivity and differences in habitat characteristics, suggesting a combined scenario of dispersal limitation and facilitation by ocean current with local adaptation. Our findings add to the growing evidence for the key role of seascape attributes in driving spatial patterns of gene flow. Despite the potential for long-distance dispersal, there was significant genetic structuring over small spatial scales implicating dispersal and recruitment bottlenecks and highlighting the importance of implementing local-scale conservation and management measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udhi E. Hernawan
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems ResearchEdith Cowan UniversityJoondalupWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Research Centre for Oceanography (PRO), National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN)JakartaIndonesia
| | - Kor‐jent van Dijk
- School of Biological SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Gary A. Kendrick
- School of Biological Sciences and The Ocean InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Western Australian Marine Science InstitutionPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Ming Feng
- Western Australian Marine Science InstitutionPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
- CSIRO Environment, Indian Ocean Marine Research CentreCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Oliver Berry
- Western Australian Marine Science InstitutionPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
- CSIRO Environment, Indian Ocean Marine Research CentreCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Christopher Kavazos
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems ResearchEdith Cowan UniversityJoondalupWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Kathryn McMahon
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems ResearchEdith Cowan UniversityJoondalupWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Western Australian Marine Science InstitutionPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
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5
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Tavares AI, Assis J, Larkin PD, Creed JC, Magalhães K, Horta P, Engelen A, Cardoso N, Barbosa C, Pontes S, Regalla A, Almada C, Ferreira R, Abdoul BM, Ebaye S, Bourweiss M, Dos Santos CVD, Patrício AR, Teodósio A, Santos R, Pearson GA, Serrao EA. Long range gene flow beyond predictions from oceanographic transport in a tropical marine foundation species. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9112. [PMID: 37277448 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36367-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transport of passively dispersed organisms across tropical margins remains poorly understood. Hypotheses of oceanographic transportation potential lack testing with large scale empirical data. To address this gap, we used the seagrass species, Halodule wrightii, which is unique in spanning the entire tropical Atlantic. We tested the hypothesis that genetic differentiation estimated across its large-scale biogeographic range can be predicted by simulated oceanographic transport. The alternative hypothesis posits that dispersal is independent of ocean currents, such as transport by grazers. We compared empirical genetic estimates and modelled predictions of dispersal along the distribution of H. wrightii. We genotyped eight microsatellite loci on 19 populations distributed across Atlantic Africa, Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, Brazil and developed a biophysical model with high-resolution ocean currents. Genetic data revealed low gene flow and highest differentiation between (1) the Gulf of Mexico and two other regions: (2) Caribbean-Brazil and (3) Atlantic Africa. These two were more genetically similar despite separation by an ocean. The biophysical model indicated low or no probability of passive dispersal among populations and did not match the empirical genetic data. The results support the alternative hypothesis of a role for active dispersal vectors like grazers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana I Tavares
- Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR-CIMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal.
| | - Jorge Assis
- Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR-CIMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Bioscience and Aquaculture, Nord Universitet, Postboks 1490, 8049, Bodø, Norway
| | | | - Joel C Creed
- Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Karine Magalhães
- Área de Ecologia, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, R. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n-Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, CEP 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Paulo Horta
- Laboratório de Ficologia, Departamento de Botânica, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88040-970, Brazil
| | - Aschwin Engelen
- Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR-CIMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- CARMABI Foundation, Piscaderabaai z/n, P.O. Box 2090, Willemstad, Curaçao, The Netherlands
| | - Noelo Cardoso
- CIPA, Centro de Investigação Pesqueira Aplicada, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
| | - Castro Barbosa
- IBAP-Instituto da Biodiversidade e Áreas Protegidas, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
| | - Samuel Pontes
- IBAP-Instituto da Biodiversidade e Áreas Protegidas, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
| | - Aissa Regalla
- IBAP-Instituto da Biodiversidade e Áreas Protegidas, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
| | - Carmen Almada
- Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade de Cabo Verde, Praia, Cabo Verde
| | - Rogério Ferreira
- Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR-CIMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Dragões do Mar, Nova Estrela, Ilha do Príncipe, São Tomé and Príncipe
| | | | - Sidina Ebaye
- Parc Nationale du Banc d'Arguin (PNBA), Chami, Mauritania
| | - Mohammed Bourweiss
- Institut Mauritanien de Recherche Oceanographique et des Peches (IMROP), Nouadhibou, Mauritania
| | | | - Ana R Patrício
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA-Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exete, Penryn, UK
| | - Alexandra Teodósio
- Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR-CIMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Rui Santos
- Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR-CIMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Gareth A Pearson
- Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR-CIMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Ester A Serrao
- Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR-CIMAR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- CIBIO-InBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Vairão, Portugal
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6
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Moreira-Saporiti A, Teichberg M, Garnier E, Cornelissen JHC, Alcoverro T, Björk M, Boström C, Dattolo E, Eklöf JS, Hasler-Sheetal H, Marbà N, Marín-Guirao L, Meysick L, Olivé I, Reusch TBH, Ruocco M, Silva J, Sousa AI, Procaccini G, Santos R. A trait-based framework for seagrass ecology: Trends and prospects. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1088643. [PMID: 37021321 PMCID: PMC10067889 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1088643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
In the last three decades, quantitative approaches that rely on organism traits instead of taxonomy have advanced different fields of ecological research through establishing the mechanistic links between environmental drivers, functional traits, and ecosystem functions. A research subfield where trait-based approaches have been frequently used but poorly synthesized is the ecology of seagrasses; marine angiosperms that colonized the ocean 100M YA and today make up productive yet threatened coastal ecosystems globally. Here, we compiled a comprehensive trait-based response-effect framework (TBF) which builds on previous concepts and ideas, including the use of traits for the study of community assembly processes, from dispersal and response to abiotic and biotic factors, to ecosystem function and service provision. We then apply this framework to the global seagrass literature, using a systematic review to identify the strengths, gaps, and opportunities of the field. Seagrass trait research has mostly focused on the effect of environmental drivers on traits, i.e., "environmental filtering" (72%), whereas links between traits and functions are less common (26.9%). Despite the richness of trait-based data available, concepts related to TBFs are rare in the seagrass literature (15% of studies), including the relative importance of neutral and niche assembly processes, or the influence of trait dominance or complementarity in ecosystem function provision. These knowledge gaps indicate ample potential for further research, highlighting the need to understand the links between the unique traits of seagrasses and the ecosystem services they provide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Moreira-Saporiti
- Faculty for Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Algae and Seagrass Ecology Group, Department of Ecology, Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research, Bremen, Germany
| | - Mirta Teichberg
- Algae and Seagrass Ecology Group, Department of Ecology, Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research, Bremen, Germany
| | - Eric Garnier
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Mats Björk
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences (DEEP), Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Emanuela Dattolo
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
| | - Johan S. Eklöf
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences (DEEP), Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Nuria Marbà
- Global Change Research Group, Institut Mediterrani d’Estudis Avançats (IMEDEA, CSIC-UIB), Esporles Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Lázaro Marín-Guirao
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
- Oceanographic Center of Murcia, Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO-CSIC), Murcia, Spain
| | - Lukas Meysick
- Åbo Akademi University, Environmental and Marine Biology, Åbo, Finland
- Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity (HIFMB) at the University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Irene Olivé
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
- School of Geographical and Earth Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Thorsten B. H. Reusch
- Marine Evolutionary Ecology, Division of Marine Ecology, GEOMAR Helmholtz Center for Ocean Research Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Miriam Ruocco
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
| | - João Silva
- Centro de Ciências do Mar, Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal
| | - Ana I. Sousa
- CESAM – Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Gabriele Procaccini
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
| | - Rui Santos
- Centro de Ciências do Mar, Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal
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7
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Giraldo Ospina A, Ruiz‐Montoya L, Kendrick GA, Hovey RK. Cross‐depth connectivity shows that deep kelps may act as refugia by reseeding climate‐vulnerable shallow beds. Ecosphere 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
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8
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Sinclair EA, Hovey RK, Krauss SL, Anthony JM, Waycott M, Kendrick GA. Historic and contemporary biogeographic perspectives on range-wide spatial genetic structure in a widespread seagrass. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e9900. [PMID: 36950371 PMCID: PMC10025079 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Historical and contemporary processes drive spatial patterns of genetic diversity. These include climate-driven range shifts and gene flow mediated by biogeographical influences on dispersal. Assessments that integrate these drivers are uncommon, but critical for testing biogeographic hypotheses. Here, we characterize intraspecific genetic diversity and spatial structure across the entire distribution of a temperate seagrass to test marine biogeographic concepts for southern Australia. Predictive modeling was used to contrast the current Posidonia australis distribution to its historical distribution during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Spatial genetic structure was estimated for 44 sampled meadows from across the geographical range of the species using nine microsatellite loci. Historical and contemporary distributions were similar, with the exception of the Bass Strait. Genetic clustering was consistent with the three currently recognized biogeographic provinces and largely consistent with the finer-scale IMCRA bioregions. Discrepancies were found within the Flindersian province and southwest IMCRA bioregion, while two regions of admixture coincided with transitional IMCRA bioregions. Clonal diversity was highly variable but positively associated with latitude. Genetic differentiation among meadows was significantly associated with oceanographic distance. Our approach suggests how shared seascape drivers have influenced the capacity of P. australis to effectively track sea level changes associated with natural climate cycles over millennia, and in particular, the recolonization of meadows across the Continental Shelf following the LGM. Genetic structure associated with IMCRA bioregions reflects the presence of stable biogeographic barriers, such as oceanic upwellings. This study highlights the importance of biogeography to infer the role of historical drivers in shaping extant diversity and structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Sinclair
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Oceans Institute, University of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and AttractionsKings ParkWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Renae K. Hovey
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Oceans Institute, University of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Siegfried L. Krauss
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and AttractionsKings ParkWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Janet M. Anthony
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and AttractionsKings ParkWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Michelle Waycott
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Adelaide and State Herbarium of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Gary A. Kendrick
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Oceans Institute, University of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
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9
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Nave GK, Hall N, Somers K, Davis B, Gruszewski H, Powers C, Collver M, Schmale DG, Ross SD. Wind Dispersal of Natural and Biomimetic Maple Samaras. Biomimetics (Basel) 2021; 6:23. [PMID: 33805294 PMCID: PMC8103264 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics6020023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Maple trees (genus Acer) accomplish the task of distributing objects to a wide area by producing seeds, known as samaras, which are carried by the wind as they autorotate and slowly descend to the ground. With the goal of supporting engineering applications, such as gathering environmental data over a broad area, we developed 3D-printed artificial samaras. Here, we compare the behavior of both natural and artificial samaras in both still-air laboratory experiments and wind dispersal experiments in the field. We show that the artificial samaras are able to replicate (within one standard deviation) the behavior of natural samaras in a lab setting. We further use the notion of windage to compare dispersal behavior, and show that the natural samara has the highest mean windage, corresponding to the longest flights during both high wind and low wind experimental trials. This study demonstrated a bioinspired design for the dispersed deployment of sensors and provides a better understanding of wind-dispersal of both natural and artificial samaras.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary K. Nave
- Engineering Mechanics Program, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA;
| | - Nathaniel Hall
- Engineering Mechanics Program, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA;
| | - Katrina Somers
- School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (K.S.); (H.G.); (D.G.S.III)
| | - Brock Davis
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA;
| | - Hope Gruszewski
- School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (K.S.); (H.G.); (D.G.S.III)
| | - Craig Powers
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA;
| | | | - David G. Schmale
- School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (K.S.); (H.G.); (D.G.S.III)
| | - Shane D. Ross
- Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA;
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10
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Distribution of Charophyte Oospores in the Curonian Lagoon and their Relationship to Environmental Forcing. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13020117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Lack of knowledge about distribution of charophyte fructifications and importance of environmental conditions in the Baltic Sea coastal waters fostered us to assess the spatial-temporal patterns of oospore bank in relationship with environmental factors in the Curonian Lagoon (Lithuanian part). We mapped the distribution of oospores in 2017–2019. The importance of environmental factors was determined by the cluster analysis and boosted regression trees. Four oospores species were recorded up to 4 m depth. The highest mean densities (58,000 ind·m−2) of viable fructifications were found along the eastern shore, where the densest charophyte stands were recorded. Viable fructifications showed a clear pattern of filling the oospore bank after the vegetation season and a depletion during the summer as they germinated. The distance from charophyte stands, salinity, bottom slope aspect, and wave exposure were the most important environmental variables. Full fructifications mostly occurred within <0.5 km distance from the charophyte stands restricted to flat and sheltered areas exposed to the northern and eastern slopes. Empty fructifications were mostly found within <2 km distance from the charophyte stands but their high density was limited to <1 km distance from the charophyte stands and on the northeastern bottom slopes and >1.5 salinity.
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11
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A novel adaptation facilitates seed establishment under marine turbulent flows. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19693. [PMID: 31873181 PMCID: PMC6928165 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56202-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Seeds of Australian species of the seagrass genus Posidonia are covered by a membranous wing that we hypothesize plays a fundamental role in seed establishment in sandy, wave swept marine environments. Dimensions of the seed and membrane were quantified under electron microscopy and micro-CT scans, and used to model rotational, drag and lift forces. Seeds maintain contact with the seabed in the presence of strong turbulence: the larger the wing, the more stable the seed. Wing surface area increases from P. sinuosa < P. australis < P.coriacea correlating with their ability to establish in increasingly energetic environments. This unique seed trait in a marine angiosperm corresponds to adaptive pressures imposed on seagrass species along 7,500 km of Australia’s coastline, from open, high energy coasts to calmer environments in bays and estuaries.
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12
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Sinclair EA, Ruiz‐Montoya L, Krauss SL, Anthony JM, Hovey RK, Lowe RJ, Kendrick GA. Seeds in motion: Genetic assignment and hydrodynamic models demonstrate concordant patterns of seagrass dispersal. Mol Ecol 2018; 27:5019-5034. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.14939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Sinclair
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions West Perth Western Australia Australia
- Oceans Institute University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Leonardo Ruiz‐Montoya
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Oceans Institute University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Siegfried L. Krauss
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions West Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Janet M. Anthony
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions West Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Renae K. Hovey
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Oceans Institute University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Ryan J. Lowe
- Oceans Institute University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Gary A. Kendrick
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Oceans Institute University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
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13
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Triest L, Sierens T, Menemenlis D, Van der Stocken T. Inferring Connectivity Range in Submerged Aquatic Populations ( Ruppia L.) Along European Coastal Lagoons From Genetic Imprint and Simulated Dispersal Trajectories. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2018; 9:806. [PMID: 29951080 PMCID: PMC6008504 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2018.00806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Coastal salt- and brackish water lagoons are unique shallow habitats characterized by beds of submerged seagrasses and salt-tolerant Ruppia species. Established long-term and large-scale patterns of connectivity in lagoon systems can be strongly determined by patterns of nearshore and coastal currents next to local bird-mediated seed dispersal. Despite the importance of dispersal in landscape ecology, characterizing patterns of connectivity remains challenging in aquatic systems. Here, we aimed at inferring connectivity distances of Ruppia cirrhosa along European coastal lagoons using a population genetic imprint and modeled dispersal trajectories using an eddy-resolving numerical ocean model that includes tidal forcing. We investigated 1,303 individuals of 46 populations alongside subbasins of the Mediterranean (Balearic, Tyrrhenian, Ionian) and the Atlantic to Baltic Sea coastline over maximum distances of 563-2,684 km. Ten microsatellite loci under an autotetraploid condition revealed a mixed sexual and vegetative reproduction mode. A pairwise FST permutation test of populations revealed high levels of historical connectivity only for distance classes up to 104-280 km. Since full range analysis was not fully explanatory, we assessed connectivity in more detail at coastline and subbasin level using four approaches. Firstly, a regression over restricted geographical distances (300 km) was done though remained comparable to full range analysis. Secondly, piecewise linear regression analyses yielded much better explained variance but the obtained breakpoints were shifted toward greater geographical distances due to a flat slope of regression lines that most likely reflect genetic drift. Thirdly, classification and regression tree analyses revealed threshold values of 47-179 km. Finally, simulated ocean surface dispersal trajectories for propagules with floating periods of 1-4 weeks, were congruent with inferred distances, a spatial Bayesian admixed gene pool clustering and a barrier detection method. A kinship based spatial autocorrelation showed a contemporary within-lagoon connectivity up to 20 km. Our findings indicate that strong differentiation or admixtures shaped historical connectivity and that a pre- and post LGM genetic imprint of R. cirrhosa along the European coasts was maintained from their occurrence in primary habitats. Additionally, this study demonstrates the importance of unraveling thresholds of genetic breaks in combination with ocean dispersal modeling to infer patterns of connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludwig Triest
- Ecology and Biodiversity Research Group, Plant Biology and Nature Management, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tim Sierens
- Ecology and Biodiversity Research Group, Plant Biology and Nature Management, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dimitris Menemenlis
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Tom Van der Stocken
- Ecology and Biodiversity Research Group, Plant Biology and Nature Management, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
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14
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Strydom S, McMahon KM, Kendrick GA, Statton J, Lavery PS. Short-term Responses of Posidonia australis to Changes in Light Quality. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2018; 8:2224. [PMID: 29387070 PMCID: PMC5776106 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2017.02224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Seagrass meadows are highly productive ecosystems that provide ecosystem services to the coastal zone but are declining globally, particularly due to anthropogenic activities that reduce the quantity of light reaching seagrasses, such as dredging, river discharge and eutrophication. Light quality (the spectral composition of the light) is also altered by these anthropogenic stressors as the differential attenuation of wavelengths of light is caused by materials within the water column. This study addressed the effect of altered light quality on different life-history stages of the seagrass Posidonia australis, a persistent, habitat-forming species in Australia. Aquarium-based experiments were conducted to determine how adult shoots and seedlings respond to blue (peak λ = 451 nm); green (peak λ = 522 nm); yellow (peak λ = 596 nm) and red (peak λ = 673 nm) wavelengths with a control of full-spectrum light (λ = 400 - 700 nm, at 200 μmol photons m-2 s-1). Posidonia australis adults did not respond to changes in light quality relative to full-spectrum light, demonstrating a capacity to obtain enough photons from a range of wavelengths across the visible spectrum to maintain short-term growth at high irradiances. Posidonia australis seedlings (<4 months old) grown in blue light showed a significant increase in xanthophyll concentrations when compared to plants grown in full-spectrum, demonstrating a pigment acclimation response to blue light. These results differed significantly from negative responses to changes in light quality recently described for Halophila ovalis, a colonizing seagrass species. Persistent seagrasses such as P. australis, appear to be better at tolerating short-term changes in light quality compared to colonizing species when sufficient PPFD is present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Strydom
- Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, School of Science, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
- Western Australian Marine Science Institution, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Kathryn M. McMahon
- Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, School of Science, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
- Western Australian Marine Science Institution, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Gary A. Kendrick
- Western Australian Marine Science Institution, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - John Statton
- Western Australian Marine Science Institution, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Paul S. Lavery
- Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, School of Science, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
- Western Australian Marine Science Institution, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Centro de Estudios Avanzados de Blanes, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Blanes, Spain
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15
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Fragment dispersal and plant-induced dieback explain irregular ring-shaped pattern formation in a clonal submerged macrophyte. Ecol Modell 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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16
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Statton J, Montoya LR, Orth RJ, Dixon KW, Kendrick GA. Identifying critical recruitment bottlenecks limiting seedling establishment in a degraded seagrass ecosystem. Sci Rep 2017; 7:14786. [PMID: 29093460 PMCID: PMC5665928 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13833-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying early life-stage transitions limiting seagrass recruitment could improve our ability to target demographic processes most responsive to management. Here we determine the magnitude of life-stage transitions along gradients in physical disturbance limiting seedling establishment for the marine angiosperm, Posidonia australis. Transition matrix models and sensitivity analyses were used to identify which transitions were critical for successful seedling establishment during the first year of seed recruitment and projection models were used to predict the most appropriate environments and seeding densities. Total survival probability of seedlings was low (0.001), however, transition probabilities between life-stages differed across the environmental gradients; seedling recruitment was affected by grazing and bioturbation prevailing during the first life-stage transition (1 month), and 4-6 months later during the third life-stage transition when establishing seedlings are physically removed by winter storms. Models projecting population growth from different starting seed densities showed that seeds could replace other more labour intensive and costly methods, such as transplanting adult shoots, if disturbances are moderated sufficiently and if large numbers of seed can be collected in sufficient quantity and delivered to restoration sites efficiently. These outcomes suggest that by improving management of early demographic processes, we could increase recruitment in restoration programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Statton
- University of Western Australia, Oceans Institute, Perth, 6009, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Leonardo R Montoya
- University of Western Australia, Oceans Institute, Perth, 6009, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Robert J Orth
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William and Mary, Gloucester Pt., 23061, VA, USA
| | - Kingsley W Dixon
- Department of Environment and Agriculture, Curtin University, Bentley, 6102, Perth, Western, Australia
| | - Gary A Kendrick
- University of Western Australia, Oceans Institute, Perth, 6009, Western Australia, Australia
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17
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Balestri E, Vallerini F, Lardicci C. Recruitment and Patch Establishment by Seed in the Seagrass Posidonia oceanica: Importance and Conservation Implications. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2017; 8:1067. [PMID: 28670323 PMCID: PMC5472673 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2017.01067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Seagrasses are declining globally, and deeper understanding is needed on the recruitment potential and distribution of new populations for many threatened species to support conservation planning in the face of climate change. Recruitment of Posidonia oceanica, a threatened seagrass endemic to the Mediterranean, has long been considered rare due to infrequent flowering, but mounting evidence demonstrates that the species is responding to a changing climate through greater reproductive effort. Due to the fragmentary information on recruit occurrence and distribution, little is known about reproductive success in the species and its contribution to persistence. We assembled P. oceanica recruitment data from published and unpublished sources, including our own, to examine the frequency and extent of recruitment events (establishment of seedlings in a site), seedling growth potential and habitat characteristics at recruitment sites. Results show that at least one recruitment event has occurred about every 3 years, and 18 localities were colonized at least one time since the first seedling record in 1986. Notably, consistently high seedling inputs were observed in four localities of the Western Mediterranean. Seedlings established mainly on unoccupied substrate areas along the coasts of islands, in sheltered sites and at shallower depths (<3 m) than the upper limit of adjacent P. oceanica meadows. Seedling establishment occurred more frequently on rocky than on sandy substrate, and rarely on dead "matte" or meadows of the seagrass Cymodocea nodosa. The chance of colonization success on rock was two times higher than on sand. Our 11 years of observations have allowed for the first time the documentation of the formation and development of patches by P. oceanica seed. These findings contradict the historical assumption that sexual recruitment is rare and usually unsuccessful for P. oceanica, and highlight the potential importance of recruitment for the long-term persistence and adaptation of the species to sea level rise predicted in the next century in the Mediterranean. Unfortunately, management actions have mainly focused on established meadows, ignoring the presence of recruits in outside areas. Therefore, it will be useful to identify and consider regeneration sites in designing future management strategies to improve seagrass conservation effectiveness.
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18
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York PH, Smith TM, Coles RG, McKenna SA, Connolly RM, Irving AD, Jackson EL, McMahon K, Runcie JW, Sherman CDH, Sullivan BK, Trevathan-Tackett SM, Brodersen KE, Carter AB, Ewers CJ, Lavery PS, Roelfsema CM, Sinclair EA, Strydom S, Tanner JE, van Dijk KJ, Warry FY, Waycott M, Whitehead S. Identifying knowledge gaps in seagrass research and management: An Australian perspective. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 127:163-172. [PMID: 27342125 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2016.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Seagrass species form important marine and estuarine habitats providing valuable ecosystem services and functions. Coastal zones that are increasingly impacted by anthropogenic development have experienced substantial declines in seagrass abundance around the world. Australia, which has some of the world's largest seagrass meadows and is home to over half of the known species, is not immune to these losses. In 1999 a review of seagrass ecosystems knowledge was conducted in Australia and strategic research priorities were developed to provide research direction for future studies and management. Subsequent rapid evolution of seagrass research and scientific methods has led to more than 70% of peer reviewed seagrass literature being produced since that time. A workshop was held as part of the Australian Marine Sciences Association conference in July 2015 in Geelong, Victoria, to update and redefine strategic priorities in seagrass research. Participants identified 40 research questions from 10 research fields (taxonomy and systematics, physiology, population biology, sediment biogeochemistry and microbiology, ecosystem function, faunal habitats, threats, rehabilitation and restoration, mapping and monitoring, management tools) as priorities for future research on Australian seagrasses. Progress in research will rely on advances in areas such as remote sensing, genomic tools, microsensors, computer modeling, and statistical analyses. A more interdisciplinary approach will be needed to facilitate greater understanding of the complex interactions among seagrasses and their environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul H York
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, QLD, Australia.
| | - Timothy M Smith
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, VIC, Australia
| | - Rob G Coles
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, QLD, Australia
| | - Skye A McKenna
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, QLD, Australia
| | - Rod M Connolly
- Australian Rivers Institute - Coast and Estuaries, School of Environment, Griffith University, QLD, Australia
| | - Andrew D Irving
- School of Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, QLD, Australia
| | - Emma L Jackson
- School of Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, QLD, Australia
| | - Kathryn McMahon
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, Edith Cowan University, WA, Australia
| | - John W Runcie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Craig D H Sherman
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Stacy M Trevathan-Tackett
- Plant Functional Biology and Climate Change Cluster (C3), University of Technology Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kasper E Brodersen
- Plant Functional Biology and Climate Change Cluster (C3), University of Technology Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alex B Carter
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, QLD, Australia
| | - Carolyn J Ewers
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul S Lavery
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, Edith Cowan University, WA, Australia
| | - Chris M Roelfsema
- Remote Sensing Research Center, School of Geography, Planning and Environmental Management, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A Sinclair
- School of Plant Biology and Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, WA, Australia
| | - Simone Strydom
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, Edith Cowan University, WA, Australia
| | - Jason E Tanner
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, SA, Australia; University of Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Fiona Y Warry
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, VIC, Australia
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19
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Hernawan UE, van Dijk KJ, Kendrick GA, Feng M, Biffin E, Lavery PS, McMahon K. Historical processes and contemporary ocean currents drive genetic structure in the seagrassThalassia hemprichiiin the Indo-Australian Archipelago. Mol Ecol 2017; 26:1008-1021. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.13966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Udhi E. Hernawan
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research; Edith Cowan University; Joondalup WA 6027 Australia
- UPT. LKBL-Tual; Research Centre for Oceanography (P2O); Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI); Ancol Timur Jakarta 14430 Indonesia
| | - Kor-jent van Dijk
- School of Biological Sciences; The University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
| | - Gary A. Kendrick
- School of Plant Biology and The Ocean Institute; The University of Western Australia; Crawley WA 6009 Australia
| | - Ming Feng
- CSIRO Ocean and Atmosphere; Centre for Environment and Life Sciences; Floreat WA 6014 Australia
| | - Edward Biffin
- School of Biological Sciences; The University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
| | - Paul S. Lavery
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research; Edith Cowan University; Joondalup WA 6027 Australia
| | - Kathryn McMahon
- School of Science and Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research; Edith Cowan University; Joondalup WA 6027 Australia
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20
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Grech A, Wolter J, Coles R, McKenzie L, Rasheed M, Thomas C, Waycott M, Hanert E. Spatial patterns of seagrass dispersal and settlement. DIVERS DISTRIB 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.12479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alana Grech
- Department of Environmental Sciences; Macquarie University; Sydney NSW 2109 Australia
| | - Jolan Wolter
- Earth and Life Institute (ELI); Université catholique de Louvain; Louvain-la-Neuve 1348 Belgium
| | - Rob Coles
- TropWATER (Centre for Tropical Water & Aquatic Ecosystem Research); James Cook University; Cairns Qld 4870 Australia
| | - Len McKenzie
- TropWATER (Centre for Tropical Water & Aquatic Ecosystem Research); James Cook University; Cairns Qld 4870 Australia
| | - Michael Rasheed
- TropWATER (Centre for Tropical Water & Aquatic Ecosystem Research); James Cook University; Cairns Qld 4870 Australia
| | - Christopher Thomas
- Institute of Mechanics, Materials and Civil Engineering; Université catholique de Louvain; Louvain-la-Neuve 1348 Belgium
| | - Michelle Waycott
- School of Biological Sciences; Environment Institute; Australian Centre for Evolutionary Biology and Biodiversity; The University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA 5001 Australia
| | - Emmanuel Hanert
- Earth and Life Institute (ELI); Université catholique de Louvain; Louvain-la-Neuve 1348 Belgium
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21
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Smith TM, York PH, Macreadie PI, Keough MJ, Ross DJ, Sherman CDH. Spatial variation in reproductive effort of a southern Australian seagrass. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 120:214-24. [PMID: 27592387 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2016.08.010] [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] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Revised: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
In marine environments characterised by habitat-forming plants, the relative allocation of resources into vegetative growth and flowering is an important indicator of plant condition and hence ecosystem health. In addition, the production and abundance of seeds can give clues to local resilience. Flowering density, seed bank, biomass and epiphyte levels were recorded for the temperate seagrass Zostera nigricaulis in Port Phillip Bay, south east Australia at 14 sites chosen to represent several regions with different physicochemical conditions. Strong regional differences were found within the large bay. Spathe and seed density were very low in the north of the bay (3 sites), low in the centre of the bay (2 sites) intermediate in the Outer Geelong Arm (2 sites), high in Swan Bay (2 sites) and very high in the Inner Geelong Arm (3 sites). In the south (2 sites) seed density was low and spathe density was high. These regional patterns were largely consistent for the 5 sites sampled over the three year period. Timing of flowering was consistent across sites, occurring from August until December with peak production in October, except during the third year of monitoring when overall densities were lower and peaked in November. Seagrass biomass, epiphyte load, canopy height and stem density showed few consistent spatial and temporal patterns. Variation in spathe and seed density and morphology across Port Phillip Bay reflects varying environmental conditions and suggests that northern sites may be restricted in their ability to recover from disturbance through sexual reproduction. In contrast, sites in the west and south of the bay have greater potential to recover from disturbances due to a larger seed bank and these sites could act as source populations for sites where seed production is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Smith
- School of Life and Environmental Science, Centre of Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3217, Australia.
| | - Paul H York
- School of Life and Environmental Science, Centre of Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3217, Australia; Centre for Tropical Water & Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia; School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Peter I Macreadie
- School of Life and Environmental Science, Centre of Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3217, Australia; Plant Functional Biology and Climate Change Cluster (C3), School of the Environment, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Michael J Keough
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - D Jeff Ross
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Taroona, TAS, 7053, Australia
| | - Craig D H Sherman
- School of Life and Environmental Science, Centre of Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3217, Australia
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22
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Jahnke M, Christensen A, Micu D, Milchakova N, Sezgin M, Todorova V, Strungaru S, Procaccini G. Patterns and mechanisms of dispersal in a keystone seagrass species. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 117:54-62. [PMID: 27085058 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Mechanisms and vectors of long-distance dispersal remain unknown for many coastal benthic species, including plants. Indications for the possibility for long-distance dispersal come from dispersal modelling and from genetic assessments, but have rarely been assessed with both methods. To this end, we assessed dispersal of the seagrass Zostera noltei, an important foundation species of the coastal zone. We investigate whether small scale seed dispersal and long-distance propagule dispersal do play a role for meta-population dynamics, using both genetic assessments based on eight microsatellite markers and physical modelling of ocean currents. Such assessments enhance our understanding of the biology and population dynamics of an important coastal foundation species. They are relevant for large scale conservation strategies as they give insights in the maintenance of genetic diversity and connectivity that may enhance resilience and resistance to stresses associated with seagrass loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Jahnke
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Asbjørn Christensen
- Technical University of Denmark, National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Jægersborg Allé 1, 2920 Charlottenlund, Denmark
| | - Dragos Micu
- National Institute for Marine Research and Development "Grigore Antipa", 900581 Constanţa, Romania
| | - Nataliya Milchakova
- The A.O. Kovalevsky Institute of Marine Biological Researches, 299011 Sevastopol, Russia
| | - Murat Sezgin
- Sinop University, Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, TR57000 Sinop, Turkey
| | | | - Stefan Strungaru
- Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Faculty of Biology, Department of Biology, Bd. Carol I 11, 700506 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Gabriele Procaccini
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy.
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23
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Kendrick GA, Orth RJ, Statton J, Hovey R, Ruiz Montoya L, Lowe RJ, Krauss SL, Sinclair EA. Demographic and genetic connectivity: the role and consequences of reproduction, dispersal and recruitment in seagrasses. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2016; 92:921-938. [DOI: 10.1111/brv.12261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gary A. Kendrick
- School of Plant Biology, Faculty of Science; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- UWA Oceans Institute; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
| | - Robert J. Orth
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science; College of William and Mary; Gloucester Point VA 23062 U.S.A
| | - John Statton
- School of Plant Biology, Faculty of Science; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- UWA Oceans Institute; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
| | - Renae Hovey
- School of Plant Biology, Faculty of Science; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- UWA Oceans Institute; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
| | - Leonardo Ruiz Montoya
- School of Plant Biology, Faculty of Science; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- UWA Oceans Institute; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
| | - Ryan J. Lowe
- UWA Oceans Institute; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- School of Earth and Environment; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies; James Cook University Townsville; Queensland 4811 Australia
| | - Siegfried L. Krauss
- School of Plant Biology, Faculty of Science; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Kings Park and Botanic Garden; West Perth Western Australia 6005 Australia
| | - Elizabeth A. Sinclair
- School of Plant Biology, Faculty of Science; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- UWA Oceans Institute; University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Kings Park and Botanic Garden; West Perth Western Australia 6005 Australia
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Hovey RK, Statton J, Fraser MW, Ruiz-Montoya L, Zavala-Perez A, Rees M, Stoddart J, Kendrick GA. Strategy for assessing impacts in ephemeral tropical seagrasses. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 101:594-599. [PMID: 26541985 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.10.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Revised: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the phenology and spatial patterns in Halophila decipiens by assessing biomass, reproduction and seed density in ~400 grab samples collected across nine sites (8 to 14 m water depth) between June 2011 and December 2012. Phenology correlated with light climate which is governed by the summer monsoon (wet period). During the wet period, sedimentary seed banks prevailed, varying spatially at both broad and fine scales, presenting a source of propagules for re-colonisation following the unfavourable growing conditions of the monsoon. Spatial patterns in H. decipiens biomass following monsoon conditions were highly variable within a landscape that largely comprised potential seagrass habitat. Management strategies for H. decipiens and similar transient species must recognise the high temporal and spatial variability of these populations and be underpinned by a framework that emphasises vulnerability assessments of different life stages instead of relying solely on thresholds for standing stock at fixed reference sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renae K Hovey
- Ocean's Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; School Plant Biology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia.
| | - John Statton
- Ocean's Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; School Plant Biology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Matthew W Fraser
- Ocean's Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; School Plant Biology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Leonardo Ruiz-Montoya
- Ocean's Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; School Plant Biology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Andrea Zavala-Perez
- Ocean's Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; School Plant Biology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Max Rees
- MScience Pty Ltd., Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - James Stoddart
- Ocean's Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; MScience Pty Ltd., Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Gary A Kendrick
- Ocean's Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia; School Plant Biology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
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