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Bauer F, Knights AM, Hanley ME, Griffin JN, Foggo A, Brown A, Firth LB. Topography-based modulation of environmental factors as a mechanism for intertidal microhabitat formation: A basis for marine ecological design. Mar Pollut Bull 2024; 202:116358. [PMID: 38643588 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Topographic complexity is often considered to be closely associated with habitat complexity and niche diversity; however, complex topography per se does not imply habitat suitability. Rather, ecologically suitable habitats may emerge if topographic features interact with environmental factors and thereby alter their surrounding microenvironment to the benefit of local organisms (e.g., resource provisioning, stress mitigation). Topography may thus act as a key modulator of abiotic stressors and biotic pressures, particularly in environmentally challenging intertidal systems. Here, we review how topography can alter microhabitat conditions with respect to four resources required by intertidal organisms: a source of energy (light, suspended food particles, prey, detritus), water (hydration, buffering of light, temperature and hydrodynamics), shelter (temperature, wave exposure, predation), and habitat space (substratum area, propagule settlement, movement). We synthesize mechanisms and quantitative findings of how environmental factors can be altered through topography and suggest an organism-centered 'form-follows-ecological-function' approach to designing multifunctional marine infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz Bauer
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Antony M Knights
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK; Environmental Research Institute, School of Biology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork, T23 N73K, Ireland
| | - Mick E Hanley
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - John N Griffin
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | | | - Louise B Firth
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK; Environmental Research Institute, School of Biology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork, T23 N73K, Ireland
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Firth LB, Foggo A, Watts T, Knights AM, deAmicis S. Invasive macroalgae in native seagrass beds: vectors of spread and impacts. Ann Bot 2024; 133:41-50. [PMID: 37787519 PMCID: PMC10921828 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcad143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Worldwide, invasive species are spreading through marine systems at an unprecedented rate with both positive and negative consequences for ecosystems and the biological functioning of organisms. Human activities from shipping to habitat damage and modification are known vectors of spread, although biological interactions including epibiosis are increasingly recognized as potentially important to introduction into susceptible habitats. METHODS We assessed a novel mechanism of spread - limpets as transporters of an invasive alga, Sargassum muticum, into beds of the seagrass Zostera marina - and the physiological impact of its invasion. The association of S. muticum with three limpet species and other habitats was assessed using intertidal surveys on rocky shores and snorkelling at two seagrass sites in the UK. A 4-year field study tested the effect of S. muticum on Z. marina shoot density, dry weight and phenolic compounds (caffeic and tannic acid) content, and a laboratory experiment tested the impact of S. muticum on nutrient partitioning (C/H/N/P/Si), photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) and growth of Z. marina. RESULTS On rocky shores 15 % of S. muticum occurrences were attached to the shells of live limpets. In seagrass beds 5 % of S. muticum occurrences were attached to the shells of dead limpets. The remainder were attached to rock, to cobblestones, to the seagrass matrix or embedded within the sand. Z. marina density and phenolics content was lower when S. muticum co-occurred with it. Over 3 years, photosynthetic responses of Z. marina to S. muticum were idiosyncratic, and S. muticum had no effect on nutrient partitioning in Z. marina. CONCLUSIONS Our results show limpets support S. muticum as an epibiont and may act as a previously unreported transport mechanism introducing invaders into sensitive habitats. S. muticum reduced production of phenolics in Z. marina, which may weaken its defensive capabilities and facilitate proliferation of S. muticum. The effect of S. muticum on Z. marina photosynthesis requires further work but having no effect on the capacity of Z. marina to sequester nutrients suggests a degree of resilience to this invader.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise B Firth
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Thomas Watts
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Antony M Knights
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Stacey deAmicis
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
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Amstutz A, Firth LB, Foggo A, Spicer JI, Hanley ME. The north-south divide? Macroalgal functional trait diversity and redundancy varies with intertidal aspect. Ann Bot 2024; 133:145-152. [PMID: 37971357 PMCID: PMC10921827 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcad183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Marine macroalgae ('seaweeds') are critical to coastal ecosystem structure and function, but also vulnerable to the many environmental changes associated with anthropogenic climate change (ACC). The local habitat conditions underpinning observed and predicted ACC-driven changes in intertidal macroalgal communities are complex and probably site-specific and operate in addition to more commonly reported regional factors such as sea surface temperatures. METHODS We examined how the composition and functional trait expression of macroalgal communities in SW England varied with aspect (i.e. north-south orientation) at four sites with opposing Equator- (EF) and Pole-facing (PF) surfaces. Previous work at these sites had established that average annual (low tide) temperatures vary by 1.6 °C and that EF-surfaces experience six-fold more frequent extremes (i.e. >30 °C). KEY RESULTS PF macroalgal communities were consistently more taxon rich; 11 taxa were unique to PF habitats, with only one restricted to EF. Likewise, functional richness and dispersion were greater on PF-surfaces (dominated by algae with traits linked to rapid resource capture and utilization, but low desiccation tolerance), although differences in both taxon and functional richness were probably driven by the fact that less diverse EF-surfaces were dominated by desiccation-tolerant fucoids. CONCLUSIONS Although we cannot disentangle the influence of temperature variation on algal ecophysiology from the indirect effects of aspect on species interactions (niche pre-emption, competition, grazing, etc.), our study system provides an excellent model for understanding how environmental variation at local scales affects community composition and functioning. By virtue of enhanced taxonomic diversity, PF-aspects supported higher functional diversity and, consequently, greater effective functional redundancy. These differences may imbue PF-aspects with resilience against environmental perturbation, but if predicted increases in global temperatures are realized, some PF-sites may shift to a depauperate, desiccation-tolerant seaweed community with a concomitant loss of functional diversity and redundancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axelle Amstutz
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Louise B Firth
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - John I Spicer
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Mick E Hanley
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
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Hanley ME, Firth LB, Foggo A. Victim of changes? Marine macroalgae in a changing world. Ann Bot 2024; 133:1-16. [PMID: 37996092 PMCID: PMC10921835 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcad185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Marine macroalgae ('seaweeds') are a diverse and globally distributed group of photosynthetic organisms that together generate considerable primary productivity, provide an array of different habitats for other organisms, and contribute many important ecosystem functions and services. As a result of continued anthropogenic stress on marine systems, many macroalgal species and habitats face an uncertain future, risking their vital contribution to global productivity and ecosystem service provision. SCOPE After briefly considering the remarkable taxonomy and ecological distribution of marine macroalgae, we review how the threats posed by a combination of anthropogenically induced stressors affect seaweed species and communities. From there we highlight five critical avenues for further research to explore (long-term monitoring, use of functional traits, focus on early ontogeny, biotic interactions and impact of marine litter on coastal vegetation). CONCLUSIONS Although there are considerable parallels with terrestrial vascular plant responses to the many threats posed by anthropogenic stressors, we note that the impacts of some (e.g. habitat loss) are much less keenly felt in the oceans than on land. Nevertheless, and in common with terrestrial plant communities, the impact of climate change will inevitably be the most pernicious threat to the future persistence of seaweed species, communities and service provision. While understanding macroalgal responses to simultaneous environmental stressors is inevitably a complex exercise, our attempt to highlight synergies with terrestrial systems, and provide five future research priorities to elucidate some of the important trends and mechanisms of response, may yet offer some small contribution to this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mick E Hanley
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, UK
| | - Louise B Firth
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, UK
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5
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Leathers T, King NG, Foggo A, Smale DA. Marine heatwave duration and intensity interact to reduce physiological tipping points of kelp species with contrasting thermal affinities. Ann Bot 2024; 133:51-60. [PMID: 37946547 PMCID: PMC10921831 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcad172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Marine heatwaves (MHWs) are widely recognized as pervasive drivers of ecosystem change, yet our understanding of how different MHW properties mediate ecological responses remains largely unexplored. Understanding MHW impacts on foundation species is particularly important, given their structural role in communities and ecosystems. METHODS We simulated a series of realistic MHWs with different levels of intensity (Control: 14 °C, Moderate: 18 °C, Extreme: 22 °C) and duration (14 or 28 d) and examined responses of two habitat-forming kelp species in the southwest UK. Here, Laminaria digitata reaches its trailing edge and is undergoing a range contraction, whereas Laminaria ochroleuca reaches its leading edge and is undergoing a range expansion. KEY RESULTS For both species, sub-lethal stress responses induced by moderate-intensity MHWs were exacerbated by longer duration. Extreme-intensity MHWs caused dramatic declines in growth and photosynthetic performance, and elevated bleaching, which were again exacerbated by longer MHW duration. Stress responses were most pronounced in L. ochroleuca, where almost complete tissue necrosis was observed by the end of the long-duration MHW. This was unexpected given the greater thermal safety margins assumed with leading edge populations. It is likely that prolonged exposure to sub-lethal thermal stress exceeded a physiological tipping point for L. ochroleuca, presumably due to depletion of internal reserves. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our study showed that exposure to MHW profiles projected to occur in the region in the coming decades can have significant deleterious effects on foundation kelp species, regardless of their thermal affinities and location within respective latitudinal ranges, which would probably have consequences for entire communities and ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayla Leathers
- Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, The Laboratory, Plymouth PL1 2PB, UK
| | - Nathan G King
- Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, The Laboratory, Plymouth PL1 2PB, UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Dan A Smale
- Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, The Laboratory, Plymouth PL1 2PB, UK
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Stevens KN, Creanor S, Jeffery A, Whone A, Zajicek J, Foggo A, Jones B, Chapman R, Cocking L, Wilks J, Webb D, Carroll C, Inches J, Underwood D, Frost J, James A, Schofield C, James R, O’Reilly C, Sheridan R, Statton S, Goff A, Russell T, Whitcher A, Craw S, Lewis A, Sophia R, Amar K, Hernandez R, Pitcher A, Carvey S, Hamlin R, Lyell V, Aubry L, Carey G, Coebergh J, Mojela I, Molloy S, Berceruelo Bergaz Y, Camera B, Campbell P, Morris H, Samakomva T, Schrag A, Fuller S, Misbahuddin A, Parker L, Visentin E, Gallehawk S, Rudd J, Singh S, Wilson S, Creven J, Croucher Y, Tluk S, Watts P, Hargreaves S, Johnson D, Worboys L, Worth P, Brooke J, Kobylecki C, Parker V, Johnson L, Joseph R, Melville J, Raw J, Birt J, Hare M, Shaik S, Alty J, Cosgrove J, Burn D, Green A, McNichol A, Pavese N, Pilkington H, Price M, Walker K, Chaudhuri R, Podlewska A, Reddy P, Trivedi D, Bandmann O, Clegg R, Cole G, Emery A, Dostal V, Graham J, Keshet-Price J, Mamutse G, Miller-Fik A, Wiltshire A, Wright C, Dixon K, Abdelhafiz A, Rose J. Evaluation of Simvastatin as a Disease-Modifying Treatment for Patients With Parkinson Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Neurol 2022; 79:1232-1241. [PMID: 36315128 PMCID: PMC9623477 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2022.3718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Importance Current treatments manage symptoms of Parkinson disease (PD), but no known treatment slows disease progression. Preclinical and epidemiological studies support the potential use of statins as disease-modifying therapy. Objective To determine whether simvastatin has potential as a disease-modifying treatment for patients with moderate PD. Design, Setting, and Participants This randomized clinical trial, a double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled futility trial, was conducted between March 2016 and May 2020 within 23 National Health Service Trusts in England. Participants aged 40 to 90 years with a diagnosis of idiopathic PD, with a modified Hoehn and Yahr stage of 3.0 or less while taking medication, and taking dopaminergic medication with wearing-off phenomenon were included. Data were analyzed from May 2020 to September 2020, with additional analysis in February 2021. Interventions Participants were allocated 1:1 to simvastatin or matched placebo via a computer-generated random sequence, stratified by site and Hoehn and Yahr stage. In the simvastatin arm, participants entered a 1-month phase of simvastatin, 40 mg daily, followed by 23 months of simvastatin, 80 mg daily, before a 2-month washout period. Main Outcomes and Measures The prespecified primary outcome was 24-month change in Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) part III score measured while not taking medication (high scores indicate worse outcome). The primary futility analysis included participants who commenced the 80-mg phase and had valid primary outcome data. The safety analysis included all participants who commenced trial treatment and is reported by dose at time of event. Results Of 332 patients assessed for eligibility, 32 declined and 65 were ineligible. Of 235 recruited participants, 97 (41%) were female, 233 (99%) were White, and the mean (SD) age was 65.4 (9.4) years. A total of 216 patients progressed to the 80-mg dose. Primary outcome analysis (n = 178) indicated the simvastatin group had an additional deterioration in MDS-UPDRS III score while not taking medication at 24 months compared with the placebo group (1.52 points; 2-sided 80% CI, -0.77 to 3.80; 1-sided futility test P = .006). A total of 37 serious adverse events (AEs), including 3 deaths, and 171 AEs were reported for participants receiving 0-mg simvastatin; 37 serious AEs and 150 AEs were reported for participants taking 40 mg or 80 mg of simvastatin. Four participants withdrew from the trial because of an AE. Conclusions and Relevance In this randomized clinical trial, simvastatin was futile as a disease-modifying therapy in patients with PD of moderate severity, providing no evidence to support proceeding to a phase 3 trial. Trial Registration ISRCTN Identifier: 16108482.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara N. Stevens
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom,Exploristics Ltd, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Siobhan Creanor
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Jeffery
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Alan Whone
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - John Zajicek
- School of Medicine, Medical and Biological Sciences, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Andy Foggo
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Jones
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Chapman
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Cocking
- NIHR BioResource, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jonny Wilks
- MAC Clinical Research, Blackpool, United Kingdom
| | - Doug Webb
- Bristol Trials Centre, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Camille Carroll
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
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Wright LS, Pessarrodona A, Foggo A. Climate-driven shifts in kelp forest composition reduce carbon sequestration potential. Glob Chang Biol 2022; 28:5514-5531. [PMID: 35694894 PMCID: PMC9545355 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The potential contribution of kelp forests to blue carbon sinks is currently of great interest but interspecific variance has received no attention. In the temperate Northeast Atlantic, kelp forest composition is changing due to climate-driven poleward range shifts of cold temperate Laminaria digitata and Laminaria hyperborea and warm temperate Laminaria ochroleuca. To understand how this might affect the carbon sequestration potential (CSP) of this ecosystem, we quantified interspecific differences in carbon export and decomposition alongside changes in detrital photosynthesis and biochemistry. We found that while warm temperate kelp exports up to 71% more carbon per plant, it decomposes up to 155% faster than its boreal congeners. Elemental stoichiometry and polyphenolic content cannot fully explain faster carbon turnover, which may be attributable to contrasting tissue toughness or unknown biochemical and structural defenses. Faster decomposition causes the detrital photosynthetic apparatus of L. ochroleuca to be overwhelmed 20 days after export and lose integrity after 36 days, while detritus of cold temperate species maintains carbon assimilation. Depending on the photoenvironment, detrital photosynthesis could further exacerbate interspecific differences in decomposition via a potential positive feedback loop. Through compositional change such as the predicted prevalence of L. ochroleuca, ocean warming may therefore reduce the CSP of such temperate marine forests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luka Seamus Wright
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research CentreUniversity of PlymouthPlymouthUK
- Oceans InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Albert Pessarrodona
- Oceans InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Andy Foggo
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research CentreUniversity of PlymouthPlymouthUK
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Firth LB, Curd A, Hawkins SJ, Knights AM, Blaze JA, Burrows MT, Dubois SF, Edwards H, Foggo A, Gribben PE, Grant L, Harris D, Mieszkowska N, Nunes FLD, Nunn JD, Power AM, O'Riordan RM, McGrath D, Simkanin C, O'Connor NE. On the diversity and distribution of a data deficient habitat in a poorly mapped region: The case of Sabellaria alveolata L. in Ireland. Mar Environ Res 2021; 169:105344. [PMID: 34015675 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Data that can be used to monitor biodiversity through time are essential for conservation and management. The reef-forming worm, Sabellaria alveolata (L. 1767) is currently classed as 'Data Deficient' due to an imbalance in the spread of data on its distribution. Little is known about the distribution of this species around Ireland. Using data archaeology, we collated past and present distribution records and discovered that S. alveolata has a discontinuous distribution with large gaps between populations. Many regions lack data and should be targeted for sampling. Biodiversity surveys revealed that S. alveolata supported diverse epibiotic algal communities. Retrograding (declining) reefs supported greater infaunal diversity than prograding (growing) reefs or sand, suggesting that S. alveolata is a dynamic ecosystem engineer that has a lasting legacy effect. Similar research should be carried out for other Data Deficient species, habitats and regions. Such data are invaluable resources for management and conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise B Firth
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK; Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | | | - Stephen J Hawkins
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK; Marine Biological Association of the UK, Plymouth, UK; School of Ocean and Earth Science, National Oceanography Centre Southampton, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Antony M Knights
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Julie A Blaze
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, USA
| | | | | | - Hugh Edwards
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Belfast, UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Paul E Gribben
- Centre for Marine Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Sydney Institute of Marine Science, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lisa Grant
- Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Daniel Harris
- Estuary & Ocean Science Center, San Francisco State University, California, USA
| | - Nova Mieszkowska
- Marine Biological Association of the UK, Plymouth, UK; Department of Ocean, Earth and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Julia D Nunn
- Centre for Environmental Data & Recording, National Museums Northern Ireland, Holywood, UK; 2 Windmill Lane, Portaferry, UK
| | - Anne Marie Power
- Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Ruth M O'Riordan
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences and Aquaculture and Fisheries Development Centre, Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - David McGrath
- Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Galway, Ireland
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9
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Frontier N, de Bettignies F, Foggo A, Davoult D. Sustained productivity and respiration of degrading kelp detritus in the shallow benthos: Detached or broken, but not dead. Mar Environ Res 2021; 166:105277. [PMID: 33592375 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Temperate kelp forests contribute significantly to marine primary productivity and fuel many benthic and pelagic food chains. A large proportion of biomass is exported from kelp forests as detritus into recipient marine ecosystems, potentially contributing to Blue Carbon sequestration. The degradation of this organic material is slow and recent research has revealed the preservation of photosynthetic functions over time. However, the physiological correlates of detrital breakdown in Laminaria spp. have not yet been studied. The warming climate threatens to reshuffle the species composition of kelp forests and perturb the dynamics of these highly productive ecosystems. The present study compares the physiological response of degrading detritus from two competing North East Atlantic species; the native Boreal Laminaria hyperborea and the thermally tolerant Boreal-Lusitanian L. ochroleuca. Detrital fragment degradation was measured by a mesocosm experiment across a gradient of spectral attenuation (a proxy for depth) to investigate the changes in physiological performance under different environmental conditions. Degradation of fragments was quantified over 108 days by measuring the biomass, production and respiration (by respirometry) and efficiency of Photosystem II (by PAM fluorometry). Data indicated that whilst degrading, the photosynthetic performance of the species responded differently to simulated depths, but fragments of both species continued to produce oxygen for up to 56 days and sustained positive net primary production. This study reveals the potential for ostensibly detrital kelp to contribute to Blue Carbon fixation through sustained primary production which should be factored into Blue Carbon management. Furthermore, the physiological response of kelp detritus is likely dependent upon the range of habitats to which it is exported. In the context of climate change, shifts in species composition of kelp forests and their detritus are likely to have wide-reaching effects upon the cycling of organic matter in benthic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Frontier
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 7144 AD2M, Station Biologique de Roscoff, Place Georges Teissier, F-29680, Roscoff, France; Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Florian de Bettignies
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 7144 AD2M, Station Biologique de Roscoff, Place Georges Teissier, F-29680, Roscoff, France
| | - Andy Foggo
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Dominique Davoult
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 7144 AD2M, Station Biologique de Roscoff, Place Georges Teissier, F-29680, Roscoff, France
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10
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Firth LB, Harris D, Blaze JA, Marzloff MP, Boyé A, Miller PI, Curd A, Vasquez M, Nunn JD, O’Connor NE, Power AM, Mieszkowska N, O’Riordan RM, Burrows MT, Bricheno LM, Knights AM, Nunes FLD, Bordeyne F, Bush LE, Byers JE, David C, Davies AJ, Dubois SF, Edwards H, Foggo A, Grant L, Green JAM, Gribben PE, Lima FP, McGrath D, Noël LMLJ, Seabra R, Simkanin C, Hawkins SJ. Specific niche requirements underpin multidecadal range edge stability, but may introduce barriers for climate change adaptation. DIVERS DISTRIB 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Louise B. Firth
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences University of Plymouth Plymouth UK
- Zoology, School of Natural Sciences National University of Ireland Galway Galway Ireland
| | - Daniel Harris
- Estuary & Ocean Science Center San Francisco State University San Francisco CA USA
| | - Julie A. Blaze
- Odum School of Ecology University of Georgia Athens GA USA
| | - Martin P. Marzloff
- DYNECO, Laboratory of Coastal Benthic Ecology Ifremer ‐ Centre de Bretagne Plouzané France
| | - Aurélien Boyé
- DYNECO, Laboratory of Coastal Benthic Ecology Ifremer ‐ Centre de Bretagne Plouzané France
| | | | - Amelia Curd
- DYNECO, Laboratory of Coastal Benthic Ecology Ifremer ‐ Centre de Bretagne Plouzané France
| | - Mickaël Vasquez
- DYNECO, Laboratory of Coastal Benthic Ecology Ifremer ‐ Centre de Bretagne Plouzané France
| | - Julia D. Nunn
- Centre for Environmental Data & Recording National Museums Northern Ireland Holywood UK
- 2 Windmill Lane Portaferry UK
| | | | - Anne Marie Power
- Zoology, School of Natural Sciences National University of Ireland Galway Galway Ireland
| | - Nova Mieszkowska
- Marine Biological Association of the UK Plymouth UK
- School of Environmental Sciences University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - Ruth M. O’Riordan
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences and Aquaculture and Fisheries Development Centre Environmental Research Institute University College Cork Cork Ireland
| | | | | | - Antony M. Knights
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences University of Plymouth Plymouth UK
| | - Flavia L. D. Nunes
- DYNECO, Laboratory of Coastal Benthic Ecology Ifremer ‐ Centre de Bretagne Plouzané France
| | - François Bordeyne
- Sorbonne Université Station Biologique de Roscoff, CNRS, UMR AD2M Adaptation et Diversité en Milieu Marin Roscoff France
| | - Laura E. Bush
- School of Ocean Sciences Bangor University Menai Bridge UK
| | - James E. Byers
- Odum School of Ecology University of Georgia Athens GA USA
| | - Carmen David
- DYNECO, Laboratory of Coastal Benthic Ecology Ifremer ‐ Centre de Bretagne Plouzané France
| | - Andrew J. Davies
- School of Ocean Sciences Bangor University Menai Bridge UK
- College of the Environment and Life Sciences University of Rhode Island Kingston RI USA
| | - Stanislas F. Dubois
- DYNECO, Laboratory of Coastal Benthic Ecology Ifremer ‐ Centre de Bretagne Plouzané France
| | - Hugh Edwards
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Belfast UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences University of Plymouth Plymouth UK
| | - Lisa Grant
- Zoology, School of Natural Sciences National University of Ireland Galway Galway Ireland
| | | | - Paul E. Gribben
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences University of New South Wales Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Fernando P. Lima
- CIBIO/InBIO Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos Universidade de Porto Porto Portugal
| | | | - Laure M. L. J. Noël
- Sorbonne Université Station Biologique de Roscoff, CNRS, UMR AD2M Adaptation et Diversité en Milieu Marin Roscoff France
| | - Rui Seabra
- CIBIO/InBIO Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos Universidade de Porto Porto Portugal
| | | | - Stephen J. Hawkins
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences University of Plymouth Plymouth UK
- Marine Biological Association of the UK Plymouth UK
- School of Ocean and Earth Science, National Oceanography Centre Southampton University of Southampton Southampton UK
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11
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Carroll CB, Webb D, Stevens KN, Vickery J, Eyre V, Ball S, Wyse R, Webber M, Foggo A, Zajicek J, Whone A, Creanor S. Simvastatin as a neuroprotective treatment for Parkinson's disease (PD STAT): protocol for a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled futility study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e029740. [PMID: 31594876 PMCID: PMC6797358 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition affecting approximately 185,000 people in the UK. No drug has been proven to slow disease progression. Epidemiological and pre-clinical data support simvastatin, a widely used cholesterol-lowering drug with a well-established safety profile, having neuroprotective properties. The aim of this study (Simvastatin as a neuroprotective treatment for PD (PD STAT)) is to determine whether simvastatin has the potential to slow PD progression. The study is part of the International Linked Clinical Trials initiative coordinated by The Cure Parkinson's Trust. This paper describes the protocol for the PD STAT study. METHODS AND ANALYSIS PD STAT is a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, multi-centre, parallel group, futility trial in patients with PD of mild-moderate severity. 235 participants have been recruited and randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to receive either oral simvastatin or matched placebo. Treatment involves a 1-month low-dose phase (40 mg daily), followed by a 23-month high-dose phase (80 mg daily) and ends with a 2-month washout period. Participants are reviewed at clinic visits at 1 month, 6, 12, 18, 24 and 26 months post-baseline, with interim telephone follow-up to monitor for adverse events.The primary outcome is the change in the Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III motor subscale score in the practically defined OFF medication state (OFF state) between baseline and 24 months. Primary analysis will be on a modified intention to treat basis and will include only those participants who progress to the high-dose phase of the study. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The protocol has been approved by the North East-Newcastle and North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee. The results will be disseminated via research articles in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at local, national and international scientific meetings, as well as disseminated via patient groups, websites and networks. A summary of the study findings will be posted to participants at the end of the study. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN16108482 (prospectively registered); EudraCT 2015-000148-40; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02787590; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille B Carroll
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Douglas Webb
- Peninsula Clinical Trials Unit, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Jane Vickery
- Peninsula Clinical Trials Unit, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Vicky Eyre
- Peninsula Clinical Trials Unit, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Susan Ball
- NIHR CLAHRC South West Peninsula (PenCLAHRC), University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Mike Webber
- PPI Representative, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- PPI Representative, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - John Zajicek
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Alan Whone
- School of Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Siobhan Creanor
- Medical Statistics Group, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
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Abstract
While research on ocean acidification (OA) impacts on coral reefs has focused on calcification, relatively little is known about effects on coral photosynthesis and respiration, despite these being among the most plastic metabolic processes corals may use to acclimatize to adverse conditions. Here, we present data collected between 2016 and 2018 at three natural CO2 seeps in Papua New Guinea where we measured the metabolic flexibility (i.e. in hospite photosynthesis and dark respiration) of 12 coral species. Despite some species-specific variability, metabolic rates as measured by net oxygen flux tended to be higher at high pCO2 (ca 1200 µatm), with increases in photosynthesis exceeding those of respiration, suggesting greater productivity of Symbiodiniaceae photosynthesis in hospite, and indicating the potential for metabolic flexibility that may enable these species to thrive in environments with high pCO2. However, laboratory and field observations of coral mortality under high CO2 conditions associated with coral bleaching suggests that this metabolic subsidy does not result in coral higher resistance to extreme thermal stress. Therefore, the combined effects of OA and global warming may lead to a strong decrease in coral diversity despite the stimulating effect on coral productivity of OA alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Biscéré
- ENTROPIE IRD - Université de La Réunion - CNRS, Nouméa 98848, New Caledonia
| | - M Zampighi
- ENTROPIE IRD - Université de La Réunion - CNRS, Nouméa 98848, New Caledonia
| | - A Lorrain
- Univ Brest, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, LEMAR, 29280 Plouzané, France
| | - S Jurriaans
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - A Foggo
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - F Houlbrèque
- ENTROPIE IRD - Université de La Réunion - CNRS, Nouméa 98848, New Caledonia
| | - R Rodolfo-Metalpa
- ENTROPIE IRD - Université de La Réunion - CNRS, Nouméa 98848, New Caledonia
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13
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Chaverra A, Wieters E, Foggo A, Knights AM. Removal of intertidal grazers by human harvesting leads to alteration of species interactions, community structure and resilience to climate change. Mar Environ Res 2019; 146:57-65. [PMID: 30914147 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Extreme fluctuations in abiotic conditions can induce a biological stress response (e.g. bleaching) detrimental to an organism's health. In some instances, organisms can recover if conditions are alleviated, such as through co-occurrence with other species that confer protection. Biodiverse, multitrophic communities are increasingly recognised as important promoters of species persistence and resilience under environmental change. On intertidal shores, the role of grazers as top-down determinants of algal community structure is well recognised. Similarly, the harvesting of grazers for human consumption is increasingly prevalent with potential to greatly alter the community dynamics. Here, we assess how differences in harvesting pressure of grazers under three management regimes (no-take; managed access; open-access) alters the trophic interactions between grazers, and algal communities. Grazer density and body size frequencies were different among regimes leading to changes in the photosynthetic performance and recovery of crustose coralline algae (CCA) post-bleaching, as well as their presence altering the strength of interactions between species. The exclusion of grazers from patches using cages led to different emergent communities and reduced negative correlations between taxa. The absence of larger grazers (>9 cm) at the managed access site led to macroalgal overgrowth of bleached CCA negatively affecting its recovery, whereas no-take or open-access led to a moderated algal growth and a shift from competitive to facilitative interactions between algal species. Given that CCA play an important role in the population growth and development of other species, the choice of management measure should be carefully considered before implementation, depending on objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Chaverra
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK; Estación Costera de Investigaciones Marinas and Center for Marine Conservation, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Casilla, 114-D, Santiago, Chile
| | - Evie Wieters
- Estación Costera de Investigaciones Marinas and Center for Marine Conservation, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Casilla, 114-D, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andy Foggo
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Antony M Knights
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK.
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14
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Biber NFA, Foggo A, Thompson RC. Characterising the deterioration of different plastics in air and seawater. Mar Pollut Bull 2019; 141:595-602. [PMID: 30955772 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.02.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In situ studies of plastic deterioration can help us understand the longevity of macroplastic as well as the generation of microplastics in the environment. Photo-oxidation contributing to the generation of microplastics in the marine environment was explored using four types of plastic (polyethene, polystyrene, poly(ethylene terephthalate) and Biothene® exposed in light and in shade, in both air and sea water. Metrics for deterioration were tensile extensibility and oxidation rate. Measurements were conducted at intervals between 7 and 600 days' exposure. Deterioration was faster in air than in sea water and was further accelerated in direct light compared to shade. Extensibility and oxidation were significantly inversely correlated in samples exposed in air. Samples in sea water lost extensibility at a slower rate. Polystyrene, which enters the waste stream rapidly due to its wide application in packaging, deteriorated fastest and is, therefore, likely to form microplastics more rapidly than other materials, especially when exposed to high levels of irradiation, for example when stranded on the shore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas F A Biber
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
| | - Andy Foggo
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
| | - Richard C Thompson
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
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15
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Harvey BP, McKeown NJ, Rastrick SPS, Bertolini C, Foggo A, Graham H, Hall-Spencer JM, Milazzo M, Shaw PW, Small DP, Moore PJ. Individual and population-level responses to ocean acidification. Sci Rep 2016; 6:20194. [PMID: 26822220 PMCID: PMC4731747 DOI: 10.1038/srep20194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocean acidification is predicted to have detrimental effects on many marine organisms and ecological processes. Despite growing evidence for direct impacts on specific species, few studies have simultaneously considered the effects of ocean acidification on individuals (e.g. consequences for energy budgets and resource partitioning) and population level demographic processes. Here we show that ocean acidification increases energetic demands on gastropods resulting in altered energy allocation, i.e. reduced shell size but increased body mass. When scaled up to the population level, long-term exposure to ocean acidification altered population demography, with evidence of a reduction in the proportion of females in the population and genetic signatures of increased variance in reproductive success among individuals. Such increased variance enhances levels of short-term genetic drift which is predicted to inhibit adaptation. Our study indicates that even against a background of high gene flow, ocean acidification is driving individual- and population-level changes that will impact eco-evolutionary trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben P Harvey
- Institute of Biological, Environmental, and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DA, UK
| | - Niall J McKeown
- Institute of Biological, Environmental, and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DA, UK
| | - Samuel P S Rastrick
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway.,Ocean and Earth Science, National Oceanography Centre Southampton, University of Southampton, Waterfront Campus, European Way, Southampton SO14 3ZH, UK
| | - Camilla Bertolini
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Andy Foggo
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Marine Science &Engineering, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Helen Graham
- Uni Research Environment, P.O. Box 7810, 5020 Bergen, Norway.,School of Marine Science and Technology, Ridley Building, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Jason M Hall-Spencer
- Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, School of Marine Science &Engineering, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Marco Milazzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare, CoNISMa, University of Palermo, via Archirafi 28, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Paul W Shaw
- Institute of Biological, Environmental, and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DA, UK
| | - Daniel P Small
- Biology Department, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS, B2G 2W5, Canada
| | - Pippa J Moore
- Institute of Biological, Environmental, and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DA, UK.,Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia, 6027
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16
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Rodolfo-Metalpa R, Montagna P, Aliani S, Borghini M, Canese S, Hall-Spencer JM, Foggo A, Milazzo M, Taviani M, Houlbrèque F. Calcification is not the Achilles' heel of cold-water corals in an acidifying ocean. Glob Chang Biol 2015; 21:2238-48. [PMID: 25641230 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Ocean acidification is thought to be a major threat to coral reefs: laboratory evidence and CO2 seep research has shown adverse effects on many coral species, although a few are resilient. There are concerns that cold-water corals are even more vulnerable as they live in areas where aragonite saturation (Ωara ) is lower than in the tropics and is falling rapidly due to CO2 emissions. Here, we provide laboratory evidence that net (gross calcification minus dissolution) and gross calcification rates of three common cold-water corals, Caryophyllia smithii, Dendrophyllia cornigera, and Desmophyllum dianthus, are not affected by pCO2 levels expected for 2100 (pCO2 1058 μatm, Ωara 1.29), and nor are the rates of skeletal dissolution in D. dianthus. We transplanted D. dianthus to 350 m depth (pHT 8.02; pCO2 448 μatm, Ωara 2.58) and to a 3 m depth CO2 seep in oligotrophic waters (pHT 7.35; pCO2 2879 μatm, Ωara 0.76) and found that the transplants calcified at the same rates regardless of the pCO2 confirming their resilience to acidification, but at significantly lower rates than corals that were fed in aquaria. Our combination of field and laboratory evidence suggests that ocean acidification will not disrupt cold-water coral calcification although falling aragonite levels may affect other organismal physiological and/or reef community processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Rodolfo-Metalpa
- UR 227 CoReUs 2, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Nouméa, New Caledonia; Marine Environment Laboratories, International Atomic Energy Agency, 4 Quai Antoine 1er, Monaco, 98000, Monaco
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17
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Rastrick SPS, Calosi P, Calder-Potts R, Foggo A, Nightingale G, Widdicombe S, Spicer JI. Living in warmer, more acidic oceans retards physiological recovery from tidal emersion in the velvet swimming crab, Necora puber. J Exp Biol 2014; 217:2499-508. [PMID: 24803457 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.089011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The distribution patterns of many species in the intertidal zone are partly determined by their ability to survive and recover from tidal emersion. During emersion, most crustaceans experience gill collapse, impairing gas exchange. Such collapse generates a state of hypoxemia and a hypercapnia-induced respiratory acidosis, leading to hyperlactaemia and metabolic acidosis. However, how such physiological responses to emersion are modified by prior exposure to elevated CO2 and temperature combinations, indicative of future climate change scenarios, is not known. We therefore investigated key physiological responses of velvet swimming crabs, Necora puber, kept for 14 days at one of four pCO2/temperature treatments (400 μatm/10°C, 1000 μatm/10°C, 400 μatm/15°C or 1000 μatm/15°C) to experimental emersion and recovery. Pre-exposure to elevated pCO2 and temperature increased pre-emersion bicarbonate ion concentrations [HCO3(-)], increasing resistance to short periods of emersion (90 min). However, there was still a significant acidosis following 180 min emersion in all treatments. The recovery of extracellular acid-base via the removal of extracellular pCO2 and lactate after emersion was significantly retarded by exposure to both elevated temperature and pCO2. If elevated environmental pCO2 and temperature lead to slower recovery after emersion, then some predominantly subtidal species that also inhabit the low to mid shore, such as N. puber, may have a reduced physiological capacity to retain their presence in the low intertidal zone, ultimately affecting their bathymetric range of distribution, as well as the structure and diversity of intertidal assemblages.
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Affiliation(s)
- S P S Rastrick
- Marine Biology & Ecology Research Centre, School of Marine Science and Engineering, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AA, UK
| | - P Calosi
- Marine Biology & Ecology Research Centre, School of Marine Science and Engineering, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AA, UK
| | - R Calder-Potts
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, West Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK
| | - A Foggo
- Marine Biology & Ecology Research Centre, School of Marine Science and Engineering, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AA, UK
| | - G Nightingale
- Marine Biology & Ecology Research Centre, School of Marine Science and Engineering, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AA, UK
| | - S Widdicombe
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, West Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK
| | - J I Spicer
- Marine Biology & Ecology Research Centre, School of Marine Science and Engineering, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AA, UK
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18
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Griffin JN, Méndez V, Johnson AF, Jenkins SR, Foggo A. Functional diversity predicts overyielding effect of species combination on primary productivity. OIKOS 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0706.2008.16960.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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19
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McAbendroth L, Ramsay PM, Foggo A, Rundle SD, Bilton DT. Does macrophyte fractal complexity drive invertebrate diversity, biomass and body size distributions? OIKOS 2005. [DOI: 10.1111/j.0030-1299.2005.13804.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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