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Regalado Fernández OR, Parsi-Pour P, Nyakatura JA, Wyneken J, Werneburg I. Correlations between local geoclimatic variables and hatchling body size in the sea turtles Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas. BMC Ecol Evol 2024; 24:108. [PMID: 39143507 PMCID: PMC11325825 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-024-02290-7] [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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
It has been widely demonstrated that air and sand temperatures influence the anatomy of sea turtle hatchlings. We examined the impact of precipitation during the nesting season on the hatchling body size of loggerhead and green turtles from 37 beaches worldwide. Longitudinal data collected between 2012 and 2018 from Florida (US) and from a sample on Bõa Vista Island (Cabo Verde) carried out in 2019 showed that loggerhead body size at hatching was negatively correlated with precipitation, while precipitation was not correlated with hatchling body size in green turtles. A meta-analysis revealed that precipitation is positively correlated with hatchling mass in loggerhead turtles, while it is positively correlated with straight carapace length and width in green turtle hatchlings. The strongest influence of precipitation was found in the middle of the incubation period of loggerhead turtles in Cabo Verde, and we posit that this is due to an increase in the uptake of water for embryonic growth. These findings highlight the great importance of understanding the correlated effects of regional environmental variables, such as precipitation, on the development of sea turtle hatchlings and will have an impact on the evaluation of ongoing conservation and climate change discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Rafael Regalado Fernández
- Senckenberg Centre for Human Evolution and Palaeoenvironment an der Universität Tübingen, Sigwartstraße 10, Tübingen, 72076, Germany.
- Fachbereich Geowissenschaften an der Universität Tübingen, Hölderlinstraße 12, Tübingen, 72074, Germany.
| | - Parima Parsi-Pour
- AG Vergleichende Zoologie, Institut Für Biologie, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Philippstraße 12 (Haus 2), Berlin, 10115, Germany
| | - John A Nyakatura
- AG Vergleichende Zoologie, Institut Für Biologie, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Philippstraße 12 (Haus 2), Berlin, 10115, Germany
| | | | - Ingmar Werneburg
- Senckenberg Centre for Human Evolution and Palaeoenvironment an der Universität Tübingen, Sigwartstraße 10, Tübingen, 72076, Germany.
- Fachbereich Geowissenschaften an der Universität Tübingen, Hölderlinstraße 12, Tübingen, 72074, Germany.
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2
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Simantiris N. The impact of climate change on sea turtles: Current knowledge, scientometrics, and mitigation strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 923:171354. [PMID: 38460688 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171354] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Sea turtles are one of the most significant groups of marine species, playing a key role in the sustainability and conservation of marine ecosystems and the food chain. These emblematic species are threatened by several natural and anthropogenic pressures, and climate change is increasingly reported as one of the most important threats to sea turtles, affecting sea turtles at all stages of their life cycle and at both their marine and coastal habitats. The effect of climate change is expressed as global warming, sea-level rise, extreme storms, and alterations in predation and diseases' patterns, posing a potentially negative impact on sea turtles. In this systematic review, the author presented the current knowledge and research outcomes on the impact of climate change on sea turtles. Moreover, this study determined trends and hotspots in keywords, country collaborations, authors, and publications in the field through a scientometric analysis. Finally, this article reviewed proposed mitigation strategies by researchers, marine protected area (MPA) managers, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to reduce the impact of climate change on the conservation of sea turtles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Simantiris
- MEDASSET (Mediterranean Association to Save the Sea Turtles), Likavittou 1C, Athens, 10632, Greece; Ionian University, Department of Informatics, Corfu, 49132, Greece.
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3
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Jiang G, Xue Y, Huang X. Temperature-Induced Sex Differentiation in River Prawn ( Macrobrachium nipponense): Mechanisms and Effects. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1207. [PMID: 38279207 PMCID: PMC10816446 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021207] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrobrachium nipponense is gonochoristic and sexually dimorphic. The male prawn grows faster and usually has a larger size than the female. Therefore, a higher male proportion in stock usually results in higher yield. To investigate the impact of temperature on sexual differentiation in M. nipponense, two temperature treatments (26 °C and 31 °C) were conducted. The results showed that compared to the 31 °C treatment (3.20 ± 0.12), the 26 °C treatment displayed a lower female/male ratio (2.20 ± 0.11), which implied that a lower temperature could induce masculinization in M. nipponense. The temperature-sensitive sex differentiation phase was 25-35 days post hatching (DPH) at 26 °C while 15-20 DPH at 31 °C. Transcriptome and qPCR analysis revealed that a lower temperature up-regulated the expression of genes related to androgen secretion, and down-regulated the expressions of genes related to oogonia differentiation. Thirty-one temperature-regulated sex-differentiation genes were identified and the molecular mechanism of temperature-regulated sex differentiation was suggested. The finding of this study indicates that temperature regulation can be proposed as an innovative strategy for improving the culture yield of M. nipponense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Jiang
- Centre for Research on Environmental Ecology and Fish Nutrition (CREEFN) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; (G.J.); (Y.X.)
| | - Yucai Xue
- Centre for Research on Environmental Ecology and Fish Nutrition (CREEFN) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; (G.J.); (Y.X.)
| | - Xuxiong Huang
- Centre for Research on Environmental Ecology and Fish Nutrition (CREEFN) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; (G.J.); (Y.X.)
- Building of China-ASEAN Belt and Road Joint Laboratory on Mariculture Technology and Joint Research on Mariculture Technology, Shanghai 201306, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
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4
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Arendt MD, Schwenter JA, Owens DW. Climate-mediated population dynamics for the world's most endangered sea turtle species. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14444. [PMID: 37660203 PMCID: PMC10475092 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41647-8] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Restricted range, and subsequently small population size, render Kemp's ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys kempii) the most globally endangered sea turtle species. For at least two decades preceding conservation, high egg harvest rates reduced annual cohort recruitment. Despite > 50 years of dedicated conservation, annual nest counts remain well below a landmark 1947 level. Prior studies attribute less robust than anticipated nest count rebound to multiple contemporary concerns; however, analyses herein convey optimistic interpretation. In objective 1, improved analysis of the ratio of hatchlings to nests since 1966 suggested age structure stabilization as a more likely basis for nest count trends after 2005 than density-dependent effects. In objective 2, multiple regression revealed a lagged (≤ 13 years prior) climate influence on nests (adj. r2 = 0.82) and hatchlings per nest (adj. r2 = 0.94) during 2006-2022. In objectives 3 and 4, a simulator modeled population response to changes in a suite of demographic rates including survival. Across 32 models, high survival and dynamic cohort sex ratio, sexual maturity age, and the ratio of clutch frequency to remigration interval best explained nesting trends during 1966-2022. These novel findings provide alternative perspective for evaluating species recovery criteria and in turn refine future nest trend expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Arendt
- South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Marine Resources Division, 217 Fort Johnson Road, Charleston, SC, 29412, USA.
| | - Jeffrey A Schwenter
- South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Marine Resources Division, 217 Fort Johnson Road, Charleston, SC, 29412, USA
| | - David W Owens
- College of Charleston, Grice Marine Biology Laboratory (Retired), 205 Fort Johnson Road, Charleston, SC, 29412, USA
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5
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Mullin DI, White RC, Mullen JL, Lentini AM, Brooks RJ, Litzgus JD. Headstarting turtles to larger body sizes for multiple years increases survivorship but with diminishing returns. J Wildl Manage 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.22390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Damien I. Mullin
- School of Natural Sciences Laurentian University Sudbury ON Canada
| | - Rachel C. White
- School of Natural Sciences Laurentian University Sudbury ON Canada
| | - Jory L. Mullen
- School of Natural Sciences Laurentian University Sudbury ON Canada
| | | | - Ronald J. Brooks
- Department of Integrative Biology University of Guelph Guelph ON Canada
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6
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Shift in demographic structure and increased reproductive activity of loggerhead turtles in the French Mediterranean Sea revealed by long-term monitoring. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23164. [PMID: 34848795 PMCID: PMC8633381 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-02629-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate-induced environmental changes are profoundly impacting marine ecosystems and altering species distribution worldwide. Migratory organisms, including sea turtles, are expected to be particularly sensitive to these variations. Here, we studied changes in the size structure and reproductive activity of loggerhead turtles in the French Mediterranean over 30 years. Overall, there was a significant increase in the size of observed loggerheads between 1990 and 2020. However, this increase was only significant during the breeding/nesting season (May to September) and was driven by the increased presence of adults. Furthermore, nesting activity along the French coast was detected in 2002 for the first time in more than 50 years, and has become frequent after 2014, with nests discovered every year. The number of eggs laid as well as incubation duration and success varied among sites but fell within the range reported at established Mediterranean nesting sites. These observations, along with recent reports of breeding activity and evidence of significant sea surface warming, suggest that the north-western Mediterranean basin has become increasingly suitable to loggerhead turtles. We postulate that this range expansion is the result of climate change and propose that emerging nesting activity in France should be closely monitored and guarded against human activities.
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Guerra CC, Ricardo JA, Ávila RB, Bretos F, Álvarez PP. Influence of Sandy Coast Vegetation on the Reproductive Success of Green Turtles at Cuban Nesting Beaches. CHELONIAN CONSERVATION AND BIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.2744/ccb-1460.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Azanza Ricardo
- Instituto Superior de Tecnología y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana 10400, Cuba []
| | | | - Fernando Bretos
- The Ocean Foundation, 1320 19th Street NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20036 USA []
| | - Pedro Pérez Álvarez
- Instituto Superior de Tecnología y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana 10400, Cuba []
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8
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Tissue and Temperature-Specific RNA-Seq Analysis Reveals Genomic Versatility and Adaptive Potential in Wild Sea Turtle Hatchlings ( Caretta caretta). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113013. [PMID: 34827746 PMCID: PMC8614379 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Digital transcriptomics is rapidly emerging as a powerful new technology for modelling the environmental dynamics of the adaptive landscape in diverse lineages. This is particularly valuable in taxa such as turtles and tortoises (order Testudines) which contain a large fraction of endangered species at risk due to anthropogenic impacts on the environment, including pollution, overharvest, habitat degradation, and climate change. Sea turtles (family Cheloniidae) in particular invite a genomics-enabled approach to investigating their remarkable portfolio of adaptive evolution. Our de novo transcriptome assemblies and measurements of tissue- and temperature- specific global gene expression in the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) reveal the genomic basis for potential resiliency in this endangered flagship species, and are crucial to future management and conservation strategies with attention to changing climates. We summarize the interactions among differentially expressed genes by producing network visualizations, and highlight the shared biological pathways related to development, migration, immunity, and longevity reported in the avian and reptilian literature. Our original results for loggerhead sea turtles provide a large, new comparative genomic resource for the investigation of genotype–phenotype relationships in amniotes. Abstract Background: Digital transcriptomics is rapidly emerging as a powerful new technology for modelling the environmental dynamics of the adaptive landscape in diverse lineages. This is particularly valuable in taxa such as turtles and tortoises (order Testudines) which contain a large fraction of endangered species at risk due to anthropogenic impacts on the environment, including pollution, overharvest, habitat degradation, and climate change. Sea turtles (family Cheloniidae) in particular invite a genomics-enabled approach to investigating their remarkable portfolio of adaptive evolution. The sex of the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) is subject to temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD), a mechanism by which exposure to temperatures during embryonic development irreversibly determines sex. Higher temperatures produce mainly female turtles and lower temperatures produce mainly male turtles. Incubation temperature can have long term effects on the immunity, migratory ability, and ultimately longevity of hatchlings. We perform RNA-seq differential expression analysis to investigate tissue- and temperature-specific gene expression within brain (n = 7) and gonadal (n = 4) tissue of male and female loggerhead hatchlings. Results: We assemble tissue- and temperature-specific transcriptomes and identify differentially expressed genes relevant to sexual development and life history traits of broad adaptive interest to turtles and other amniotic species. We summarize interactions among differentially expressed genes by producing network visualizations, and highlight shared biological pathways related to migration, immunity, and longevity reported in the avian and reptile literature. Conclusions: The measurement of tissue- and temperature-specific global gene expression of an endangered, flagship species such as the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) reveals the genomic basis for potential resiliency and is crucial to future management and conservation strategies with attention to changing climates. Brain and gonadal tissue collected from experimentally reared loggerhead male and female hatchlings comprise an exceedingly rare dataset that permits the identification of genes enriched in functions related to sexual development, immunity, longevity, and migratory behavior and will serve as a large, new genomic resource for the investigation of genotype–phenotype relationships in amniotes.
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9
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Arendt MD, Schwenter JA, Owens DW, Valverde RA. Theoretical modeling and neritic monitoring of loggerhead Caretta caretta [Linnaeus, 1758] sea turtle sex ratio in the southeast United States do not substantiate fears of a male-limited population. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2021; 27:4849-4859. [PMID: 34273224 PMCID: PMC9291020 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sea turtles are among several hundred species whose sex is determined by incubation conditions during critical developmental periods. Consequently, these marine reptiles may be vulnerable to global climate change, and under the assumption of continued climate warming, numerous studies pose dire predictions for future populations based primarily on hatchling sex ratio data. Alternatively, as long-lived species that take decades to reach maturity, without inherent coping mechanisms for such change, sea turtles could not have persisted across geological epochs. Globally, loggerhead Caretta caretta [Linnaeus, 1758] sea turtles occupy temperate zones, with ontogenetic development that spans the entirety of gyres associated with respective ocean basins. The largest rookery for this species occurs in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean (NWA) population, where a 30-year cycle in annual nest counts is reported through 2018. Complementary studies document a lagged association between these annual nest counts and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO); however, the underlying mechanism for this association remains elusive. Therefore, objective 1 evaluated the effect of AMO-mediated cohort resonance on the demographic structure of a theoretical neritic assemblage under variable cohort abundance and female proportion but stable annual survival during 165-year runs (i.e., extent of AMO data). For objective 2, blood samples were used to assign sex to 2217 loggerhead sea turtles captured by research trawling (2000 to 2019) on the inner continental shelf from St. Augustine, FL (29.9°N) to Winyah Bay, SC (33.1°N). Shorter oceanic duration of less female-biased cohorts from the AMO cold phase synchronized peak adult male and adult female co-occurrence during subsequent warm phases three decades later. Grand sex ratio predicted from testosterone was 67% female (n = 1484), with a slight temporal female decline. Our findings suggest greater population sex ratio plasticity than predicted solely from terrestrial nesting data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Arendt
- Marine Resources DivisionSouth Carolina Department of Natural ResourcesCharlestonSCUSA
| | - Jeffrey A. Schwenter
- Marine Resources DivisionSouth Carolina Department of Natural ResourcesCharlestonSCUSA
| | - David W. Owens
- Grice Marine LaboratoryCollege of CharlestonCharlestonSCUSA
| | - Roldán A. Valverde
- Department of Biological SciencesSoutheastern Louisiana UniversityHammondLAUSA
- Sea Turtle ConservancyGainesvilleFLUSA
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10
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Kang CQ, Meng QY, Dang W, Lu HL. Divergent incubation temperature effects on thermal sensitivity of hatchling performance in two different latitudinal populations of an invasive turtle. J Therm Biol 2021; 100:103079. [PMID: 34503815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2021.103079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The incubation temperature for embryonic development affects several aspects of hatchling performance, but its impact on the thermal sensitivity of performance attributes remains poorly investigated. In the present study, Trachemys scripta elegans hatchlings from two different latitudinal populations were collected to assess the effects of different incubation temperatures on the locomotor (swimming speed) and physiological (heart rate) performances, and the thermal sensitivity of these two attributes. The incubation temperature significantly affected the examined physiological traits. Hatchling turtles produced at low incubation temperature exhibited relatively higher cold tolerance (lower body temperatures at which the animals lose the ability to escape from the lethal conditions), and reduced heart rate and swimming speed. Furthermore, the effect of incubation temperature on the thermal sensitivity of swimming speed differed between the low- and high-latitude populations. At relatively high incubation temperatures, the high-latitude hatchling turtles exhibited reduced thermal sensitivities of swimming speed than those of the low-latitude ones. Reduced thermal sensitivity of locomotor performance together with high cold tolerance, exhibited by the high-latitude hatchling turtles potentially reflected local adaptation to relatively colder and more thermally-variable environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Quan Kang
- Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, China
| | - Qin-Yuan Meng
- Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, China
| | - Wei Dang
- Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, China
| | - Hong-Liang Lu
- Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, China.
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11
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Mendoza P, Cerdan I, Garcia B, Furuta C, Di Santo L, Sanfilippo LF, Bícego KC, Carciofi AC. Influence of incubation temperature on embryo development, hatchling morphology and early growth rate in red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria). Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2021; 259:110999. [PMID: 34098130 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.110999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Reptile embryos respond to temperature changes with metabolic and physiological adjustments that influence hatchling success, phenotype, behaviour, and growth rate. Climate change and global warming can affect the reptile population by altering the frequencies of hatchling survival and phenotypes. Therefore, previous studies proposed artificial incubation as a potential strategy for mitigating these effects. Red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria) eggs were collected and incubated at constant temperatures of 27.5 °C and 29.5 °C to investigate the physiological effects of temperature on embryo development, hatchling morphology, and early post-hatch growth rate. The direct effect of temperature on the incubation period, egg mass loss, hatching success, hatchling size, and mass was evaluated at hatching and three months of age. Hatchlings from 29.5 °C presented a shorter incubation period (141 days) than those from 27.5 °C (201 days; p < 0.05). Egg mass loss, hatchling mass, and size at hatching were not different between the incubation temperatures (p > 0.05). However, the hatching success (survival rate) was lower (64.5% versus 100%) in eggs incubated at 29.5 °C, but the hatchling mass and straight plastron width were higher at three months of age than those from eggs incubated at 27.5 °C (p < 0.05). These results indicate that incubation temperature influences hatching success and hatchling size and mass in the first months by influencing the early growth rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierina Mendoza
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil; W.A.R.M.I. Wildlife Animal Research and Management Integration, Lima, Peru.
| | - Isaura Cerdan
- Department of Biology Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Garcia
- Department of Biology Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Furuta
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ludmilla Di Santo
- Department of Clinic and Veterinary Surgery, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz F Sanfilippo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2415 - Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Kênia C Bícego
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aulus C Carciofi
- Department of Clinic and Veterinary Surgery, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
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12
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Pusapati C, Manoharakrishnan M, Phillott AD, Shanker K. Effect of Hatchery Nest Environment on Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) Hatchling Performance. CHELONIAN CONSERVATION AND BIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.2744/ccb-1450.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chandana Pusapati
- TERI School of Advanced Studies, Plot 10, Institutional Area, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi 110070, India []
| | | | - Andrea D. Phillott
- Dakshin Foundation, 1818, 9th Cross, 5th Main, Sahakar Nagar B block, Bangalore 560092, Karnataka, India []
| | - Kartik Shanker
- Dakshin Foundation, 1818, 9th Cross, 5th Main, Sahakar Nagar B block, Bangalore 560092, Karnataka, India []
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13
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Lawson L, Rollinson N. A simple model for the evolution of temperature-dependent sex determination explains the temperature sensitivity of embryonic mortality in imperiled reptiles. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 9:coab020. [PMID: 33996099 PMCID: PMC8111383 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coab020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A common reptile conservation strategy involves artificial incubation of embryos and release of hatchlings or juveniles into wild populations. Temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) occurs in most chelonians, permitting conservation managers to bias sex ratios towards females by incubating embryos at high temperatures, ultimately allowing the introduction of more egg-bearing individuals into populations. Here, we revisit classic sex allocation theory and hypothesize that TSD evolved in some reptile groups (specifically, chelonians and crocodilians) because male fitness is more sensitive to condition (general health, vigor) than female fitness. It follows that males benefit more than females from incubation environments that confer high-quality phenotypes, and hence high-condition individuals. We predict that female-producing temperatures, which comprise relatively high incubation temperatures in chelonians and crocodilians, are relatively stressful for embryos and subsequent life stages. We synthesize data from 28 studies to investigate how constant temperature incubation affects embryonic mortality in chelonians with TSD. We find several lines of evidence suggesting that warm, female-producing temperatures are more stressful than cool, male-producing temperatures. Further, we find some evidence that pivotal temperatures (TPiv, the temperature that produces a 1:1 sex ratio) may exhibit a correlated evolution with embryonic thermal tolerance. If patterns of temperature-sensitive embryonic mortality are also indicative of chronic thermal stress that occurs post-hatching, then conservation programs may benefit from incubating eggs close to species-specific TPivs, thus avoiding high-temperature incubation. Indeed, our models predict that, on average, a sex ratio of >75% females can generally be achieved by incubating eggs only 1°C above TPiv. Of equal importance, we provide insight into the enigmatic evolution of TSD in chelonians, by providing support to the hypothesis that TSD evolution is related to the quality of the phenotype conferred by incubation temperature, with males produced in high-quality incubation environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Lawson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks St., Room 3055, Toronto ON, Canada M5S 3B2
- School of the Environment, University of Toronto, 33 Willcocks St., Suite 1016V, Toronto ON, Canada M5S 3E8
| | - Njal Rollinson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks St., Room 3055, Toronto ON, Canada M5S 3B2
- School of the Environment, University of Toronto, 33 Willcocks St., Suite 1016V, Toronto ON, Canada M5S 3E8
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14
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García-Grajales J, Meraz-Hernando J, Arcos García J, Ramírez-Fuentes E. Influence of nest temperature on morphology of Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) hatchlings incubated in hatcheries in Oaxaca, Mexico. CAN J ZOOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2020-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The influence of nest incubation temperatures on carapace shape and morphological traits of Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea (Vandelli, 1761)) hatchlings incubated in two hatcheries in Oaxaca, Mexico, was evaluated. This study was carried out from October 2016 through May 2017. On each beach, there are community groups consisting of volunteers not affiliated with universities who protect and relocate the nests to increase hatching success. In each translocated nest, a data logger was placed in the centre of the egg mass. Hatchlings were collected as they emerged from each nest. The carapaces of the hatchlings were photographed and subjected to geometric morphometric analysis; also, hatchlings were weighed and their bodies measured. The mean temperature of 12 nests in each hatchery was recorded, with no significant differences between hatcheries. The principal component analysis revealed an overlapping of the carapace shape under different temperature durations. Temperature had a significant influence on hatchling morphology. Higher mean incubation temperatures produced hatchlings with low mass, smaller appendages, narrower carapace widths, and shorter flipper lengths. Lower mean incubation temperatures produced hatchlings with greater mass, wider appendage widths, wider carapace widths, and longer flipper lengths. Results indicate that the Leatherback hatchlings incubated in hatcheries demonstrate morphology that varies in relation to nest incubation temperature in a similar way to hatchlings produced in natural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. García-Grajales
- Instituto de Recursos, Univesidad del Mar, Km. 2.5, Carretera Federal Puerto Escondido – Sola de Vega, Puerto Escondido 71980, Oaxaca, México
| | - J.F. Meraz-Hernando
- Instituto de Recursos, Univesidad del Mar, Km. 2.5, Carretera Federal Puerto Escondido – Sola de Vega, Puerto Escondido 71980, Oaxaca, México
| | - J.L. Arcos García
- Instituto de Industrias, Univesidad del Mar, Km. 2.5, Carretera Federal Puerto Escondido – Sola de Vega, Puerto Escondido 71980, Oaxaca, México
| | - E. Ramírez-Fuentes
- Instituto de Recursos, Univesidad del Mar, Km. 2.5, Carretera Federal Puerto Escondido – Sola de Vega, Puerto Escondido 71980, Oaxaca, México
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15
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Patrício AR, Hawkes LA, Monsinjon JR, Godley BJ, Fuentes MMPB. Climate change and marine turtles: recent advances and future directions. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change is a threat to marine turtles that is expected to affect all of their life stages. To guide future research, we conducted a review of the most recent literature on this topic, highlighting knowledge gains and research gaps since a similar previous review in 2009. Most research has been focussed on the terrestrial life history phase, where expected impacts will range from habitat loss and decreased reproductive success to feminization of populations, but changes in reproductive periodicity, shifts in latitudinal ranges, and changes in foraging success are all expected in the marine life history phase. Models have been proposed to improve estimates of primary sex ratios, while technological advances promise a better understanding of how climate can influence different life stages and habitats. We suggest a number of research priorities for an improved understanding of how climate change may impact marine turtles, including: improved estimates of primary sex ratios, assessments of the implications of female-biased sex ratios and reduced male production, assessments of the variability in upper thermal limits of clutches, models of beach sediment movement under sea level rise, and assessments of impacts on foraging grounds. Lastly, we suggest that it is not yet possible to recommend manipulating aspects of turtle nesting ecology, as the evidence base with which to understand the results of such interventions is not robust enough, but that strategies for mitigation of stressors should be helpful, providing they consider the synergistic effects of climate change and other anthropogenic-induced threats to marine turtles, and focus on increasing resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- AR Patrício
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA - Instituto Universitário, 1149-041 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - LA Hawkes
- Hatherley Laboratories, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Streatham Campus, Exeter EX4 4PS, UK
| | - JR Monsinjon
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown 6139, South Africa
| | - BJ Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - MMPB Fuentes
- Marine Turtle Research, Ecology and Conservation Group, Department of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
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16
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Gatto CR, Matthews B, Reina RD. Role of incubation environment in determining thermal tolerance of sea turtle hatchlings. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Warming global temperatures are predicted to reduce population viability in many oviparous ectothermic taxa, with increased embryonic mortality likely to be a main cause. While research on embryonic upper thermal limits is extensive, sea turtle hatchling thermal tolerance has received less attention and our understanding of how incubation conditions influence hatchling thermal tolerance is limited. Here, we report green turtle Chelonia mydas hatchling hydration and thermal tolerance following incubation in dry and wet conditions. We used packed cell volume and total protein as indicators of hydration and measured the critical thermal maximum (CTmax) of hatchlings in air. Neither hydration nor thermal tolerance was directly influenced by moisture treatment. However, hatchlings from moister nests had longer incubation durations (wet: 60.11 d vs. dry: 54.86 d), and, using incubation duration as a proxy for incubation temperature, hatchlings from cooler nests had significantly lower CTmax (wet: 39.84°C vs. dry: 40.51°C). Thus, despite not directly influencing thermal tolerance, moisture treatment influenced nest temperature indirectly; hatchlings that experienced warmer conditions in dry nests had a higher thermal tolerance than hatchlings from cooler and wetter nests. Ectothermic neonates may have greater plasticity in their thermal tolerance than previously thought, but their ability to adapt to increasing temperature is likely limited. Additionally, common management techniques to reduce nest temperatures, such as watering and shading nests, may only reduce embryonic mortality at the cost of decreased hatchling thermal tolerance and increased hatchling mortality during emergence. Nesting-site management interventions designed to reduce embryonic mortality will need to consider mitigation of the possible effects of those interventions on hatchling mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- CR Gatto
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - B Matthews
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - RD Reina
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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17
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Maurer AS, Seminoff JA, Layman CA, Stapleton SP, Godfrey MH, Reiskind MOB. Population Viability of Sea Turtles in the Context of Global Warming. Bioscience 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biab028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Sea turtles present a model for the potential impacts of climate change on imperiled species, with projected warming generating concern about their persistence. Various sea turtle life-history traits are affected by temperature; most strikingly, warmer egg incubation temperatures cause female-biased sex ratios and higher embryo mortality. Predictions of sea turtle resilience to climate change are often focused on how resulting male limitation or reduced offspring production may affect populations. In the present article, by reviewing research on sea turtles, we provide an overview of how temperature impacts on incubating eggs may cascade through life history to ultimately affect population viability. We explore how sex-specific patterns in survival and breeding periodicity determine the differences among offspring, adult, and operational sex ratios. We then discuss the implications of skewed sex ratios for male-limited reproduction, consider the negative correlation between sex ratio skew and genetic diversity, and examine consequences for adaptive potential. Our synthesis underscores the importance of considering the effects of climate throughout the life history of any species. Lethal effects (e.g., embryo mortality) are relatively direct impacts, but sublethal effects at immature life-history stages may not alter population growth rates until cohorts reach reproductive maturity. This leaves a lag during which some species transition through several stages subject to distinct biological circumstances and climate impacts. These perspectives will help managers conceptualize the drivers of emergent population dynamics and identify existing knowledge gaps under different scenarios of predicted environmental change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Maurer
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, in the United States; he is also a research associate with the Jumby Bay Hawksbill Project in Antigua, West Indies
| | - Jeffrey A Seminoff
- Marine Turtle Ecology and Assessment Program, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Southwest Fisheries Science Center, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Craig A Layman
- Center for Energy, Environment, and Sustainability, Wake Forest University, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, in the United States
| | - Seth P Stapleton
- Conservation and animal health sciences, Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley, Minnesota; he is also an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in the United States
| | - Matthew H Godfrey
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States
| | - Martha O Burford Reiskind
- Martha Burford Reiskind is an assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences and the director of the Genetics and Genomics Scholars program, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States
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18
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Chatting M, Hamza S, Al-Khayat J, Smyth D, Husrevoglu S, Marshall CD. Feminization of hawksbill turtle hatchlings in the twenty-first century at an important regional nesting aggregation. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Projected climate change is forecasted to have significant effects on biological systems worldwide. Marine turtles in particular may be vulnerable, as the sex of their offspring is determined by their incubating temperature, termed temperature-dependent sex determination. This study aimed to estimate historical, and forecast future, primary sex ratios of hawksbill turtle Eretmochelys imbricata hatchlings at an important nesting ground in northeastern Qatar. Incubation temperatures from the Arabian/Persian Gulf were measured over 2 nesting seasons. Climate data from same period were regressed with nest temperatures to estimate incubation temperatures and hatchling sex ratios for the site from 1993 to 2100. Future hatchling sex ratios were estimated for 2 climate forecasts, one mid-range (SSP245) and one extreme (SSP585). Historical climate data showed female-biased sex ratios of 73.2 ± 12.1% from 1993 to 2017. Female biases from 2018 to 2100 averaged 85.7% ± 6.7% under the mid-range scenario and 87.9% ± 5.4% under the high-range scenario. In addition, predicted female hatchling production was >90% from 2054 and 2052 for SSP245 and SSP585, respectively. These results show that hawksbill primary sex ratios in Qatar are at risk of significant feminization by the year 2100 and that hawksbill turtle incubation temperatures in an extreme, understudied environment are already comparable to those predicted in tropical rookeries during the latter half of the 21st century. These results can help conservationists predict primary sex ratios for hawksbill turtles in the region in the face of 21st-century climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Chatting
- Environmental Science Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - S Hamza
- Environmental Science Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - J Al-Khayat
- Environmental Science Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - D Smyth
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5EY, UK
| | - S Husrevoglu
- Institute of Marine Sciences, Middle East Technical University, Erdemli, Mersin 33731, Turkey
| | - CD Marshall
- Department of Marine Biology, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research, Texas A&M University, Galveston, Texas 77553, USA
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19
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Breitenbach AT, Carter AW, Paitz RT, Bowden RM. Using naturalistic incubation temperatures to demonstrate how variation in the timing and continuity of heat wave exposure influences phenotype. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20200992. [PMID: 32752987 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.0992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Most organisms are exposed to bouts of warm temperatures during development, yet we know little about how variation in the timing and continuity of heat exposure influences biological processes. If heat waves increase in frequency and duration as predicted, it is necessary to understand how these bouts could affect thermally sensitive species, including reptiles with temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). In a multi-year study using fluctuating temperatures, we exposed Trachemys scripta embryos to cooler, male-producing temperatures interspersed with warmer, female-producing temperatures (heat waves) that varied in either timing during development or continuity and then analysed resulting sex ratios. We also quantified the expression of genes involved in testis differentiation (Dmrt1) and ovary differentiation (Cyp19A1) to determine how heat wave continuity affects the expression of genes involved in sexual differentiation. Heat waves applied during the middle of development produced significantly more females compared to heat waves that occurred just 7 days before or after this window, and even short gaps in the continuity of a heat wave decreased the production of females. Continuous heat exposure resulted in increased Cyp19A1 expression while discontinuous heat exposure failed to increase expression in either gene over a similar time course. We report that even small differences in the timing and continuity of heat waves can result in drastically different phenotypic outcomes. This strong effect of temperature occurred despite the fact that embryos were exposed to the same number of warm days during a short period of time, which highlights the need to study temperature effects under more ecologically relevant conditions where temperatures may be elevated for only a few days at a time. In the face of a changing climate, the finding that subtle shifts in temperature exposure result in substantial effects on embryonic development becomes even more critical.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda W Carter
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-1610, USA
| | - Ryan T Paitz
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790, USA
| | - Rachel M Bowden
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790, USA
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20
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Miller S, Derenne A, Ellis-Felege S, Rhen T. Incubation temperature and satiety influence general locomotor and exploratory behaviors in the common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina). Physiol Behav 2020; 220:112875. [PMID: 32194070 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.112875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Temperature during embryogenesis determines sex and has been shown to influence other physiological traits in reptiles. The common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is an ideal model for testing how temperature impacts behavior in species that display temperature-dependent sex determination. Behavioral assays are crucial to understanding how a changing climate may affect whole organism function in the snapping turtle. Currently, there are few behavioral assays for semi-aquatic vertebrates like turtles. In this study, we used digital cameras to record behavior of fed and fasted hatchling turtles from different incubation temperatures in an open field setting for 20 min in 2018 and repeated the experiment in 2019. Open fields were circular tanks filled with water to a depth of 3.5 cm. Each field was split into four quadrants and two zones (inner and outer). The amount of time turtles spent actively moving, total distance travelled, and several other measures were collected and summarized automatically from videos with open source image analysis software (ImageJ). Satiety and incubation temperature had significant effects on total distance moved, time spent moving, and time moving in the outer zone. These findings indicate that temperature during embryogenesis has a long-lasting effect on neural mechanisms underlying exploratory or general locomotor behavior in turtles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soleille Miller
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, Box 9019, 10 Cornell Street, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Adam Derenne
- Department of Psychology, University of North Dakota, Box 8380, 501 N Columbia Road, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Susan Ellis-Felege
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, Box 9019, 10 Cornell Street, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Turk Rhen
- Department of Psychology, University of North Dakota, Box 8380, 501 N Columbia Road, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA.
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21
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González JM, Anastácio R, Lizárraga-Cubedo HA, Pereira MJ. Caretta caretta nesting activity on Akumal Beaches, Mexico. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3020. [PMID: 32080298 PMCID: PMC7033246 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60018-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Mexico has made substantial contributions to marine turtle protection and conservation, especially since 1990. Several conservation projects entail monitoring efforts to recover nesting territories for marine turtles. The Sea Turtle Protection Program of Akumal, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, was created in 1993 and was developed by the Akumal Ecological Center. This paper provides the nesting ecology parameters for Caretta caretta over a protection period of 24 years (1995-2018). A well-defined nesting peak was observed in June, with a nesting success rate of 75.2 ± 23.0%. Nesting females showed a mean curved carapace length of 99.0 ± 5.6 cm. The mean clutch size was 108.6 ± 24.6 eggs, with variation among years. The mean incubation period was 57.2 ± 6.2 days. The hatching and emergence success rates were 87.2 ± 16.9% and 78.8 ± 24.4%, respectively. For the 926 tagged females that returned, the remigration interval peaked at 726 days, with a 12-day inter-nesting period. The results show not only the recovery of the nesting population over time but also a decrease in female size; we postulate that this decrease is due to the recruitment of young females, which has been increasingly pronounced since 2010. Hence, the Akumal rookery plays an important role in its corresponding regional management unit (Atlantic Northwest).
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Affiliation(s)
- J M González
- Centro Ecológico de Akumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico.,Departamento de Biologia e CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | | | | | - M J Pereira
- Departamento de Biologia e CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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22
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Singh SK, Das D, Rhen T. Embryonic Temperature Programs Phenotype in Reptiles. Front Physiol 2020; 11:35. [PMID: 32082193 PMCID: PMC7005678 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Reptiles are critically affected by temperature throughout their lifespan, but especially so during early development. Temperature-induced changes in phenotype are a specific example of a broader phenomenon called phenotypic plasticity in which a single individual is able to develop different phenotypes when exposed to different environments. With climate change occurring at an unprecedented rate, it is important to study temperature effects on reptiles. For example, the potential impact of global warming is especially pronounced in species with temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) because temperature has a direct effect on a key phenotypic (sex) and demographic (population sex ratios) trait. Reptiles with TSD also serve as models for studying temperature effects on the development of other traits that display continuous variation. Temperature directly influences metabolic and developmental rate of embryos and can have permanent effects on phenotype that last beyond the embryonic period. For instance, incubation temperature programs post-hatching hormone production and growth physiology, which can profoundly influence fitness. Here, we review current knowledge of temperature effects on phenotypic and developmental plasticity in reptiles. First, we examine the direct effect of temperature on biophysical processes, the concept of thermal performance curves, and the process of thermal acclimation. After discussing these reversible temperature effects, we focus the bulk of the review on developmental programming of phenotype by temperature during embryogenesis (i.e., permanent developmental effects). We focus on oviparous species because eggs are especially susceptible to changes in ambient temperature. We then discuss recent work probing the role of epigenetic mechanisms in mediating temperature effects on phenotype. Based on phenotypic effects of temperature, we return to the potential impact of global warming on reptiles. Finally, we highlight key areas for future research, including the identification of temperature sensors and assessment of genetic variation for thermosensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Turk Rhen
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States
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23
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Fleming KA, Perrault JR, Stacy NI, Coppenrath CM, Gainsbury AM. Heat, health and hatchlings: associations of in situ nest temperatures with morphological and physiological characteristics of loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings from Florida. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 8:coaa046. [PMID: 32523697 PMCID: PMC7269062 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coaa046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Incubation temperatures, in addition to an embryo's genetic makeup, are critical in many aspects of adequate sea turtle embryonic development. The effects of high and low incubation temperatures on hatchling quality have been previously examined; however, many of these studies were conducted on relocated or laboratory-reared nests, which do not accurately reflect natural nest temperature fluctuations. To observe the impacts of varying in situ incubation temperatures on loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) hatchling morphology, various health variables and locomotor performance, temperature data loggers were deployed in 15 loggerhead nests on Juno Beach, Florida, between May and July 2018. Over the course of the study period, 10 morphological traits were measured, blood analytes and heart rate were assessed for the establishment of reference intervals and the self-righting response in seawater was evaluated. Warmer months were associated with smaller body size and higher body condition index, larger umbilical scar size, slower righting time, lower heart rates and higher packed cell volume, hemoglobin, total solids, total white blood cell count, absolute heterophils and absolute basophils. These findings provide evidence that higher in situ incubation temperatures have the potential to adversely affect hatchlings from warmer nests due to increased risk of predation from smaller body sizes, decreased physical responses and overall fitness, altered hemodynamic balance (e.g. dehydration) and potential inflammation and/or stress. With rising temperatures, we predict sea turtle hatchlings may have increasing risks of developing suboptimal physiological features affecting overall fitness and ultimately survival. These results demonstrate that rising environmental temperatures can negatively impact sea turtle hatchlings, thus representing additional stress on sea turtle populations and contributing to our understanding of potential pathophysiological effects of climate change on the delicate life-stage class of the sea turtle hatchling. This information will be useful for formulating effective future sea turtle management plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A Fleming
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Florida St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA
| | | | - Nicole I Stacy
- Aquatic, Amphibian, and Reptile Pathology Program, Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | | | - Alison M Gainsbury
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Florida St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA
- Corresponding author: Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Florida St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA.
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24
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Massey MD, Congdon JD, Davy C, Rollinson N. First Evidence of Metabolic Heating in a Freshwater Turtle (Chelydra serpentina). CHELONIAN CONSERVATION AND BIOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.2744/ccb-1356.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie D. Massey
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B2 Canada []
| | - Justin D. Congdon
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, South Carolina 29802 USA []
| | - Christina Davy
- Wildlife Research and Monitoring Section, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry. 2140 East Bank Drive, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 7B8 Canada
| | - Njal Rollinson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3B2 Canada []
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25
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Abstract
Climate change is occurring at an unprecedented rate and has begun to modify the distribution and phenology of organisms worldwide. Chelonians are expected to be particularly vulnerable due to limited dispersal capabilities as well as widespread temperature-dependent sex determination. The number of papers published about the effects of climate change on turtles has increased exponentially over the last decade; here, I review the data from peer-reviewed publications to assess the likely impacts of climate change on individuals, populations, and communities. Based upon these studies future research should focus on: (1) Individual responses to climate change, particularly with respect to thermal biology, phenology, and microhabitat selection; (2) improving species distribution models by incorporating fine-scale environmental variables as well as physiological processes; (3) identifying the consequences of skewed sex ratios; and (4) assessments of community resilience and the development of methods to mitigate climate change impacts. Although detailed management recommendations are not possible at this point, careful consideration should be given regarding how to manage low vagility species as habitats shift poleward. In the worst-case scenario, proactive management may be required in order to ensure that widespread losses do not occur.
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26
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Effects of local climate on loggerhead hatchling production in Brazil: Implications from climate change. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8861. [PMID: 31222177 PMCID: PMC6586835 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45366-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sea turtle eggs are heavily influenced by the environment in which they incubate, including effects on hatching success and hatchling viability (hatchling production). It is crucial to understand how the hatchling production of sea turtles is influenced by local climate and how potential changes in climate may impact future hatchling production. Generalized Additive Models were used to determine the relationship of six climatic variables at different temporal scales on loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) hatchling production at seventeen nesting beaches in Bahia, Espirito Santo, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Using extreme and conservative climate change scenarios throughout the 21st century, potential impacts on future hatching success (the number of hatched eggs in a nest) were predicted using the climatic variable(s) that best described hatchling production at each nesting beach. Air temperature and precipitation were found to be the main drivers of hatchling production throughout Brazil. CMIP5 climate projections are for a warming of air temperature at all sites throughout the 21st century, while projections for precipitation vary regionally. The more tropical nesting beaches in Brazil, such as those in Bahia, are projected to experience declines in hatchling production, while the more temperate nesting beaches, such as those in Rio de Janeiro, are projected to experience increases in hatchling production by the end of the 21st century.
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27
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Usategui-Martín A, Liria-Loza A, Miller JD, Medina-Suárez M, Jiménez-Bordón S, Pérez-Mellado V, Montero D. Effects of incubation temperature on hatchling performance and phenotype in loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2019. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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28
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March DT, Ariel E, Munns S, Rudd D, Blyde D, Christidis L, Kelaher BP. Physiological changes in post-hatchling green turtles ( Chelonia mydas) following short-term fasting: implications for release protocols. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 7:coz016. [PMID: 31110766 PMCID: PMC6521679 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coz016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2019] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Relocation of sea turtle nests and the retention of post-hatchlings for head-starting programs are both commonly used to improve conservation outcomes and facilitate eco-tourism ventures. Currently, there is little literature surrounding the husbandry protocols required during these programs to optimize post-release outcomes. To assess the impact of varied feeding regimes on exercise performance, (which will hereafter be referred to as 'fitness'), 40 10-month-old captive post-hatchling green turtles (Chelonia mydas) were divided into four groups of 10 and fasted for either 3, 9, 10 or 15 h. The animals were then subjected to a fitness test via repetitive use of the 'righting reflex' on land. Health assessments were conducted prior to the fitness test, including; heart rate, haematocrit (Hct), heterophil to lymphocyte ratio and the measurement of 11 biochemical analytes, including pH, partial pressures of carbon dioxide (PvCO2) and oxygen (PvO2), lactate, bicarbonate (HCO3 -), sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl-), ionized calcium (iCa2+), glucose and urea. Results were corrected for multiple comparisons and significant differences among groups were demonstrated for temperature, pH, HCO3 -, iCa2+, urea and lactate. To investigate physiological relationships between analytes, correlation coefficients were calculated between fitness and glucose, fitness and lactate, glucose and lactate, pH and iCa2+, pH and K+, pH and PvCO2, pH and HCO3 - and Hct and K+. Following correction for multiple comparisons, significant relationships were seen between pH and iCa2+ and pH and HCO3 -. Post-hatchling turtles appear to enter a catabolic state when exposed to short-term fasting. While this did not have a direct impact on fitness, the production of an intense energetic output from a catabolic state may induce a physiological debt. This study suggests that handling that induces a physical response should be minimized and animals should be fed within 10 h of release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duane T March
- National Marine Science Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia
- Corresponding author: National Marine Science Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia. Tel: +61 431182961.
| | - Ellen Ariel
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Suzy Munns
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Donna Rudd
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - David Blyde
- Veterinary Department, Sea World, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Les Christidis
- National Marine Science Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia
| | - Brendan P Kelaher
- National Marine Science Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia
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Stubbs JL, Mitchell NJ. The Influence of Temperature on Embryonic Respiration, Growth, and Sex Determination in a Western Australian Population of Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas). Physiol Biochem Zool 2018; 91:1102-1114. [DOI: 10.1086/700433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Incubation and water temperatures influence the performances of loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings during the dispersal phase. Sci Rep 2018; 8:11911. [PMID: 30093615 PMCID: PMC6085310 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-30347-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial manipulation of incubation temperature has been proposed as a potential strategy for mitigating the effects of climate change on sea turtles for which sex determination is temperature-dependent, but thermal manipulation may also affect hatchling survival. Here, we demonstrated that incubation and water temperatures influenced several performance traits that contribute to the survival of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) during the post-hatchling dispersal phase. Hatchlings from warm incubation temperatures (31 °C) had significantly shorter incubation periods, higher initial swimming performance, lower sustained swimming performance, and lower growth rates during the first three weeks post-hatching, as well as higher blood glucose concentrations, than those from cool incubation temperatures (27.5 °C). Hatchlings in warm water temperatures (30 °C) exhibited significantly greater swimming performance than those in cool water temperatures (27 °C). Our results indicated that altering incubation temperatures indirectly influences the survival of loggerhead hatchlings by modifying their swimming performance and growth rates, which may affect hatchling predator-avoidance capability. Moreover, thermal manipulation may alter the incubation period, exposing hatchling to water temperatures that they would not otherwise normally experience, which may affect swimming performance. Our results suggest that such conservation strategies may influence their survival, and thus should be carefully considered.
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Booth DT. Incubation temperature induced phenotypic plasticity in oviparous reptiles: Where to next? JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2018; 329:343-350. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.2195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David T. Booth
- School of Biological Sciences; The University of Queensland; Queensland Australia
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Salleh SM, Nishizawa H, Ishihara T, Sah SAM, Chowdhury AJK. Importance of Sand Particle Size and Temperature for Nesting Success of Green Turtles in Penang Island, Malaysia. CHELONIAN CONSERVATION AND BIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.2744/ccb-1266.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarahaizad Mohd Salleh
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia []
- Center for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Marine Science, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia []
| | - Hideaki Nishizawa
- Graduate School of Informatics, Kyoto University, Yoshida Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan []
| | | | - Shahrul Anuar Mohd Sah
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia []
- Center for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Ahmed Jalal Khan Chowdhury
- Department of Marine Science, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia []
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33
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Hatase H, Omuta K, Itou K, Komatsu T. Effect of maternal foraging habitat on offspring quality in the loggerhead sea turtle ( Caretta caretta). Ecol Evol 2018; 8:3543-3555. [PMID: 29607045 PMCID: PMC5869213 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Exploring a trade‐off between quantity and quality of offspring allows differences in the fitness between alternative life histories to be accurately evaluated. We addressed the mechanism that maintains alternative life histories (small oceanic planktivores vs. large neritic benthivores) observed in a loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) population, which has been suggested to be environmental, based on the lack of genetic structure and a large difference in reproductive output. We examined whether maternal foraging habitat affects offspring quality, by measuring the morphology, emergence success, and righting response of hatchlings following incubation in a common open sand area over the whole nesting season at Yakushima Island, Japan, and by recording early growth and survival of offspring that were reared in a common environment at a Japanese aquarium. Furthermore, we tested whether sea turtles adjust egg size in response to temporal shifts of the incubation environment. There were no significant differences in any hatchling traits between oceanic and neritic foragers (which were classified by stable isotope ratios), except for clutches laid during the warmest period of the nesting season. There were also no significant differences in the growth and survival of offspring originating from the two foragers. The size of eggs from both foragers significantly increased as the season progressed, even though the rookery had heavy rainfall, negating the need to counteract heat‐related reduction in hatchling morphology. In comparison, the sizes of adult body and clutches from both foragers did not vary significantly. The results further support our previous suggestions that the size‐related foraging dichotomy exhibited by adult sea turtles does not have a genetic basis, but derives from phenotypic plasticity. Adjustment in reproductive investment may be associated with: (1) predation avoidance, (2) founder effect, and/or (3) annual variation in egg size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideo Hatase
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute The University of Tokyo Kashiwa Chiba Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Omuta
- Yakushima Sea Turtle Research Group Yakushima Kagoshima Japan
| | | | - Teruhisa Komatsu
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute The University of Tokyo Kashiwa Chiba Japan.,Present address: Department of Commerce Yokohama College of Commerce Tsurumi, Yokohama Kanagawa Japan
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Polich RL, Bodensteiner BL, Adams CIM, Janzen FJ. Effects of augmented corticosterone in painted turtle eggs on offspring development and behavior. Physiol Behav 2018; 183:1-9. [PMID: 29031544 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Maternal stressors can play an integral role in offspring development and ultimate behaviors in many vertebrates. Increased circulating stress avoidance hormones can be reflected in elevated concentrations in ova, thus providing a potential mechanism for maternal stress to be transmitted to offspring even in taxa without parental care. In this study, we assessed the potential impacts of augmented stress avoidance hormones on offspring development and anti-predator behaviors in a freshwater turtle, Chrysemys picta. We exposed C. picta eggs to biologically relevant amounts of the stress avoidance hormone, corticosterone, as a proxy for maternal stressors. We allowed the eggs to incubate in the field, then measured offspring phenotypes, conducted performance trials, and simulated nest emergence in a field experiment. Exogenous corticosterone reduced survivorship to hatch, but did not affect incubation duration, offspring size, overwinter survival, or size after hibernation. In performance trials, this hormone treatment reduced the frequency of righting, yet enhanced the righting speed of neonates. Regardless, these performance differences did not detectably alter survivorship in the nest emergence experiment. These results lend insight into the potential effects of maternal stress levels on offspring phenotypes, as well as the robustness of offspring fitness to altered levels of maternal stress in freshwater turtles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Polich
- Department of Human Physiology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA, USA.
| | - Brooke L Bodensteiner
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic University and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Clare I M Adams
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
| | - Fredric J Janzen
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T. BOOTH
- School of Biological Sciences; The University of Queensland; St Lucia Queensland Australia
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36
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Marco A, Abella E, Martins S, López O, Patino-Martinez J. Female nesting behaviour affects hatchling survival and sex ratio in the loggerhead sea turtle: implications for conservation programmes. ETHOL ECOL EVOL 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/03949370.2017.1330291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Marco
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC, C/Américo Vespucio s/n, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Elena Abella
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC, C/Américo Vespucio s/n, Sevilla, Spain
| | | | - Oscar López
- Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Juan de Quesada 30, 35001 Las Palmas, Spain
- Cabo Verde Natura 2000, Rua Primero de Maio 1, Sal Rei, Cabo Verde
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37
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Azanza-Ricardo J, Martín MEI, Sansón GG, Harrison E, Cruz YM, Bretos F. Possible Effect of Global Climate Change onCaretta caretta(Testudines, Cheloniidae) Nesting Ecology at Guanahacabibes Peninsula, Cuba. CHELONIAN CONSERVATION AND BIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.2744/ccb-1241.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Azanza-Ricardo
- Instituto Superior de Tecnología y Ciencias Aplicadas, CP 10400, Ciudad Habana, Cuba []
- Centro de Investigaciones Marinas, Universidad de La Habana. Calle 16 No. 114 e/1ra y 3ra, Playa, CP 11300, Ciudad Habana, Cuba
| | - María E. Ibarra Martín
- Centro de Investigaciones Marinas, Universidad de La Habana. Calle 16 No. 114 e/1ra y 3ra, Playa, CP 11300, Ciudad Habana, Cuba
| | - Gaspar González Sansón
- Centro de Investigaciones Marinas, Universidad de La Habana. Calle 16 No. 114 e/1ra y 3ra, Playa, CP 11300, Ciudad Habana, Cuba
- Departamento de Estudios para el Desarrollo Sustentable de Zonas Costeras, Universidad de Guadalajara, Gómez Farías 82, San Patricio-Melaque, Cihuatlán, Jalisco, CP 48980 []
| | | | | | - Fernando Bretos
- Cuba Marine Research & Conservation, Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science, 3280 South Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida 33129 USA []
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Abstract
Reptile perinatology refers to the time period surrounding hatching for oviparous species, and immediately after birth for viviparous species. Veterinarians working in myriad conservation and breeding programs require knowledge in this area. This article reviews anatomy and physiology of the amniotic egg, the basics of artificial incubation, when manual pipping is indicated, and basic medicine of the reptile hatchling or neonate.
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39
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Rees AF, Alfaro-Shigueto J, Barata PCR, Bjorndal KA, Bolten AB, Bourjea J, Broderick AC, Campbell LM, Cardona L, Carreras C, Casale P, Ceriani SA, Dutton PH, Eguchi T, Formia A, Fuentes MMPB, Fuller WJ, Girondot M, Godfrey MH, Hamann M, Hart KM, Hays GC, Hochscheid S, Kaska Y, Jensen MP, Mangel JC, Mortimer JA, Naro-Maciel E, Ng CKY, Nichols WJ, Phillott AD, Reina RD, Revuelta O, Schofield G, Seminoff JA, Shanker K, Tomás J, van de Merwe JP, Van Houtan KS, Vander Zanden HB, Wallace BP, Wedemeyer-Strombel KR, Work TM, Godley BJ. Are we working towards global research priorities for management and conservation of sea turtles? ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2016. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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40
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McCoy JA, Hamlin HJ, Thayer L, Guillette LJ, Parrott BB. The influence of thermal signals during embryonic development on intrasexual and sexually dimorphic gene expression and circulating steroid hormones in American alligator hatchlings (Alligator mississippiensis). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 238:47-54. [PMID: 27080549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Incubation temperatures experienced by developing embryos exert powerful influences over gonadal sex determination and differentiation in many species. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling these impacts remain largely unknown. We utilize the American alligator to investigate the sensitivity of the reproductive system to thermal signals experienced during development and ask specifically whether individuals of the same sex, yet derived from different incubation temperatures display persistent variation in the expression patterns of sex biased transcripts and plasma sex hormones. Our analysis focuses on assessments of circulating sex steroids and transcript abundance in brain and gonad, two tissues that display sexually dimorphic gene expression and directly contribute to diverse sexually dimorphic phenotypes. Whereas our results identify sexually dimorphic patterns for several target gonadal genes in postnatal alligators, sex linked variation in circulating 17β-estradiol, testosterone, and expression of two brain transcripts (aromatase and gonadotropin releasing hormone) was not observed. Regarding intrasexual variation, we found that AMH transcript abundance in hatchling testes is positively correlated with temperatures experienced during sexual differentiation. We also describe highly variable patterns of gene expression and circulating hormones within each sex that are not explained by the intensity of embryonic incubation temperatures. The magnitude of sexually dimorphic gene expression, however, is directly associated with temperature for SOX9 and AMH, two transcripts with upstream roles in Sertoli cell differentiation. Collectively, our findings regarding temperature linked variation provide new insights regarding the connections between embryonic environment and persistent impacts on sexual differentiation in a reptile species that displays temperature dependent sex determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A McCoy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology & Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences Program, Medical University of South Carolina and Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA
| | - Heather J Hamlin
- School of Marine Sciences, Aquaculture Research Institute, University of Maine, 5751 Murray Hall, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | - LeeAnne Thayer
- School of Marine Sciences, Aquaculture Research Institute, University of Maine, 5751 Murray Hall, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | - Louis J Guillette
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology & Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences Program, Medical University of South Carolina and Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA
| | - Benjamin B Parrott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology & Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences Program, Medical University of South Carolina and Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA.
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Tedeschi JN, Kennington WJ, Tomkins JL, Berry O, Whiting S, Meekan MG, Mitchell NJ. Heritable variation in heat shock gene expression: a potential mechanism for adaptation to thermal stress in embryos of sea turtles. Proc Biol Sci 2016; 283:rspb.2015.2320. [PMID: 26763709 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2015.2320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The capacity of species to respond adaptively to warming temperatures will be key to their survival in the Anthropocene. The embryos of egg-laying species such as sea turtles have limited behavioural means for avoiding high nest temperatures, and responses at the physiological level may be critical to coping with predicted global temperature increases. Using the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) as a model, we used quantitative PCR to characterise variation in the expression response of heat-shock genes (hsp60, hsp70 and hsp90; molecular chaperones involved in cellular stress response) to an acute non-lethal heat shock. We show significant variation in gene expression at the clutch and population levels for some, but not all hsp genes. Using pedigree information, we estimated heritabilities of the expression response of hsp genes to heat shock and demonstrated both maternal and additive genetic effects. This is the first evidence that the heat-shock response is heritable in sea turtles and operates at the embryonic stage in any reptile. The presence of heritable variation in the expression of key thermotolerance genes is necessary for sea turtles to adapt at a molecular level to warming incubation environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- J N Tedeschi
- School of Animal Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - W J Kennington
- School of Animal Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - J L Tomkins
- School of Animal Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - O Berry
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Oceans and Atmosphere Flagship, Floreat, Western Australia 6014, Australia
| | - S Whiting
- Marine Science Program, Western Australian Department of Parks and Wildlife, Kensington, Western Australia 6151, Australia
| | - M G Meekan
- UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia Australian Institute of Marine Science, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - N J Mitchell
- School of Animal Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
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42
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Mitchell TS, Myers EM, Tucker JK, McGaugh SE. Righting ability in hatchling turtles does not predict survival during dispersal in the field. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/bij.12896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy S. Mitchell
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology; Iowa State University; Ames IA 50011 USA
- Deptartment of Biological Sciences; Auburn University; 101 Life Sciences Building Auburn AL 36849 USA
| | - Erin M. Myers
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry; University of Houston; Houston TX 77204 USA
| | - John K. Tucker
- Illinois Natural History Survey; 1816 S. Oak Street Champaign IL 61820 USA
- Retired
| | - Suzanne E. McGaugh
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology; Iowa State University; Ames IA 50011 USA
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior; University of Minnesota; 100 Ecology Building 1987 Upper Buford Circle Saint Paul MN 55108 USA
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43
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Simoniello P, Esposito MG, Trinchella F, Motta CM, Scudiero R. Alterations in brain morphology and HSP70 expression in lizard embryos exposed to thermal stress. C R Biol 2016; 339:380-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Brand MD, Hill RD, Brenes R, Chaney JC, Wilkes RP, Grayfer L, Miller DL, Gray MJ. Water Temperature Affects Susceptibility to Ranavirus. ECOHEALTH 2016; 13:350-359. [PMID: 27283058 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-016-1120-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/02/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of emerging infectious diseases in wildlife populations is increasing, and changes in environmental conditions have been hypothesized as a potential driver. For example, warmer ambient temperatures might favor pathogens by providing more ideal conditions for propagation or by stressing hosts. Our objective was to determine if water temperature played a role in the pathogenicity of an emerging pathogen (ranavirus) that infects ectothermic vertebrate species. We exposed larvae of four amphibian species to a Frog Virus 3 (FV3)-like ranavirus at two temperatures (10 and 25°C). We found that FV3 copies in tissues and mortality due to ranaviral disease were greater at 25°C than at 10°C for all species. In a second experiment with wood frogs (Lithobates sylvaticus), we found that a 2°C change (10 vs. 12°C) affected ranaviral disease outcomes, with greater infection and mortality at 12°C. There was evidence that 10°C stressed Cope's gray tree frog (Hyla chrysoscelis) larvae, which is a species that breeds during summer-all individuals died at this temperature, but only 10% tested positive for FV3 infection. The greater pathogenicity of FV3 at 25°C might be related to faster viral replication, which in vitro studies have reported previously. Colder temperatures also may decrease systemic infection by reducing blood circulation and the proportion of phagocytes, which are known to disseminate FV3 through the body. Collectively, our results indicate that water temperature during larval development may play a role in the emergence of ranaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabre D Brand
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Services, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Rachel D Hill
- Center for Wildlife Health, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Roberto Brenes
- Department of Biology, Carroll University, Waukesha, WI, USA
| | - Jordan C Chaney
- Center for Wildlife Health, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Rebecca P Wilkes
- Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, USA
| | - Leon Grayfer
- Department of Biological Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Debra L Miller
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Services, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, USA
- Center for Wildlife Health, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Matthew J Gray
- Center for Wildlife Health, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, USA.
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45
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Maffucci F, Corrado R, Palatella L, Borra M, Marullo S, Hochscheid S, Lacorata G, Iudicone D. Seasonal heterogeneity of ocean warming: a mortality sink for ectotherm colonizers. Sci Rep 2016; 6:23983. [PMID: 27044321 PMCID: PMC4820753 DOI: 10.1038/srep23983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Distribution shifts are a common adaptive response of marine ectotherms to climate change but the pace of redistribution depends on species-specific traits that may promote or hamper expansion to northern habitats. Here we show that recently, the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) has begun to nest steadily beyond the northern edge of the species' range in the Mediterranean basin. This range expansion is associated with a significant warming of spring and summer sea surface temperature (SST) that offers a wider thermal window suitable for nesting. However, we found that post-hatchlings departing from this location experience low winter SST that may affect their survival and thus hamper the stabilization of the site by self-recruitment. The inspection of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change model projections and observational data on SST trends shows that, despite the annual warming for this century, winter SST show little or no trends. Therefore, thermal constraints during the early developmental phase may limit the chance of population growth at this location also in the near future, despite increasingly favourable conditions at the nesting sites. Quantifying and understanding the interplay between dispersal and environmental changes at all life stages is critical for predicting ectotherm range expansion with climate warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fulvio Maffucci
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze, Università Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Corrado
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze dell'Atmosfera e del Clima, Str. Lecce-Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Luigi Palatella
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze dell'Atmosfera e del Clima, Str. Lecce-Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Marco Borra
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Marullo
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Sandra Hochscheid
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Lacorata
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze dell'Atmosfera e del Clima, Str. Lecce-Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Daniele Iudicone
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy
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Hart CE, Zavala-Norzagaray AA, Benítez-Luna O, Plata-Rosas LJ, Abreu-Grobois FA, Ley-Quiñonez CP. Effects of incubation technique on proxies for olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) neonate fitness. AMPHIBIA-REPTILIA 2016. [DOI: 10.1163/15685381-00003072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Sea turtles and their nests face multiple threats on nesting beaches. Techniques have been developed to mitigate threats, these include relocating nests to fenced-off hatcheries or polystyrene boxes. The alteration of the nest’s natural environment may have direct effects on hatchling phenotype and locomotor performance. To test the effects of these two incubation conditions on proxies for hatchling fitness, we analysed locomotor performance (time to crawl 3 m and righting response) and phenotypic measures (weight and carapace length and width) of olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) hatchlings. We found that mean temperature was higher in hatcheries (30.5°C) than in polystyrene boxes (29.9°C) and that hatchlings incubated in polystyrene boxes had smaller straight carapace length (39.2 mm ± 2.0) and were significantly slower in crawl speed (CS) (0.0107 m s−1 ± 0.005) than those from hatcheries (SCL = 40.7 mm ± 1.3; CS = 0.018 m s−1 ± 0.005).
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E. Hart
- Universidad de Guadalajara, Centro Universitario de la Costa, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Alan A. Zavala-Norzagaray
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, CIIDIR Unidad Sinaloa, Guasave, Sinaloa, 81101, Mexico
- Investigación, Capacitación y Soluciones Ambientales y Sociales A.C. (ICSAS), c/ Acaponeta 358, Colonia Morelos, 63160 Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico
| | - Odin Benítez-Luna
- Universidad de Guadalajara, Centro Universitario de la Costa, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Luis Javier Plata-Rosas
- Universidad de Guadalajara, Centro Universitario de la Costa, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - F. Alberto Abreu-Grobois
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Laboratorio de Genética, Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Cesar P. Ley-Quiñonez
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, CIIDIR Unidad Sinaloa, Guasave, Sinaloa, 81101, Mexico
- Investigación, Capacitación y Soluciones Ambientales y Sociales A.C. (ICSAS), c/ Acaponeta 358, Colonia Morelos, 63160 Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico
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