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Grossi F, Lagasio M, Napoli A, Provenzale A, Tepsich P. Phytoplankton spring bloom in the NW Mediterranean Sea under climate change. Sci Total Environ 2024; 914:169884. [PMID: 38190897 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169884] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The spring phytoplankton bloom is the main event influencing ecosystem richness in the pelagic realm of the Northwestern Mediterranean Sea (NW Med Sea). The Marine Strategy Framework Directive requires the achievement of a good ecological status for the pelagic habitat, and phytoplankton bloom phenology has been used as an indicator of the status of offshore waters. In this work we investigate interannual changes in the timing and magnitude of the phytoplankton bloom in the NW Med Sea, using phenological metrics. Daily maps of Chl-a concentration from 1998 to 2022 obtained by CMEMS were used to analyse bloom phenological metrics in 5 representative sites in the area. Chlorophyll-a data from 1998 to 2007 were used for determining the climatological behaviour, while 2008-2022 was identified as the study period. For this latter period, yearly spring bloom were identified and interannual variability and overall trends were analysed for each of the phenological metrics considered. Winter oceanographic and meteorological data were analysed to investigate possible correlations with the subsequent spring bloom. The frequency of anomalous years is increasing, both for bloom intensity and sea temperature. Bloom analysis revealed a negative trend only in some areas, but a steep decrease in the last 7 years was noticeable for all sites considered. Correlations of the Chl-a concentration during bloom with oceanographic variables revealed the importance of temperature, both marine and atmospheric, while Mixed Layer Depth played a lesser role. This work contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics of an area already under severe threat from human activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Grossi
- DIBRIS, Università di Genova, Via Balbi 5, 16126 Genova GE, Italy; CIMA Research Foundation, Via Armando Magliotto, 17100 Savona SV, Italy.
| | - M Lagasio
- CIMA Research Foundation, Via Armando Magliotto, 17100 Savona SV, Italy
| | - A Napoli
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering (DICAM), University of Trento, Trento, Italy; Center Agriculture Food Environment (C3A), Trento, Italy
| | - A Provenzale
- Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - P Tepsich
- CIMA Research Foundation, Via Armando Magliotto, 17100 Savona SV, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
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2
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Marx D, Feldens A, Papenmeier S, Feldens P, Darr A, Zettler ML, Heinicke K. Habitats and Biotopes in the German Baltic Sea. Biology (Basel) 2023; 13:6. [PMID: 38275727 PMCID: PMC10813628 DOI: 10.3390/biology13010006] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
To maintain or enhance biodiversity and sea floor integrity, mapping benthic habitats is a mandatory requirement in compliance with the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The EU Commission Decision distinguishes between Broad Habitat Types (BHTs) and Other Habitat Types (OHTs). At the regional level, biotopes in the Baltic Sea region are classified according to the HELCOM underwater biotope and habitat classification (HUB). In this study, the habitats and their benthic communities were mapped for the entire German Baltic Sea at a high spatial resolution of 1 km. In two nature conservation areas of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as well as selected focus areas in the coastal waters, the resolution we provide is even more detailed at 50 × 50 m. Hydroacoustic data recording and benthological surveys (using bottom grabs, underwater towing camera technology, and diver sampling) helped identify biotopes in high resolution. Based on these data, together with additional data acquired since 2010 (a total of over 7000 stations and transect sections), we were able to spatially delineate benthic biotopes and their communities via predictive habitat modelling. The results are provided as full-coverage maps each for BHT, OHT, and HUB (9 classes of BHTs, 5 classes of OHTs, and 84 classes of HUB) with a level of spatial detail that does not yet exist for the Baltic Sea, and they form an essential basis for future monitoring, status assessments, and protection and management measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Marx
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestrasse 15, D-18119 Rostock, Germany; (A.F.); (S.P.); (P.F.); (A.D.); (M.L.Z.)
| | - Agata Feldens
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestrasse 15, D-18119 Rostock, Germany; (A.F.); (S.P.); (P.F.); (A.D.); (M.L.Z.)
| | - Svenja Papenmeier
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestrasse 15, D-18119 Rostock, Germany; (A.F.); (S.P.); (P.F.); (A.D.); (M.L.Z.)
| | - Peter Feldens
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestrasse 15, D-18119 Rostock, Germany; (A.F.); (S.P.); (P.F.); (A.D.); (M.L.Z.)
| | - Alexander Darr
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestrasse 15, D-18119 Rostock, Germany; (A.F.); (S.P.); (P.F.); (A.D.); (M.L.Z.)
| | - Michael L. Zettler
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestrasse 15, D-18119 Rostock, Germany; (A.F.); (S.P.); (P.F.); (A.D.); (M.L.Z.)
| | - Kathrin Heinicke
- German Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, Isle of Vilm/Rügen Office, D-18581 Putbus, Germany;
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3
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Williams RS, Brownlow A, Baillie A, Barber JL, Barnett J, Davison NJ, Deaville R, Ten Doeschate M, Penrose R, Perkins M, Williams R, Jepson PD, Lyashevska O, Murphy S. Evaluation of a marine mammal status and trends contaminants indicator for European waters. Sci Total Environ 2023; 866:161301. [PMID: 36592909 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161301] [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: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Marine mammals are vulnerable to the bioaccumulation, biomagnification and lactational transfer of specific types of pollutants, such as industrial polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), due to their long-life spans, feeding at a high trophic level and unique fat stores that can serve as depots for these lipophilic contaminants. Currently, European countries are developing indicators for monitoring pollutants in the marine environment and assessing the state of biodiversity, requirements under both Regional Seas Conventions and European legislation. As sentinel species for marine ecosystem and human health, marine mammals can be employed to assess bioaccumulated contaminants otherwise below current analytical detection limits in water and lower trophic level marine biota. To aid the development of Regional Seas marine mammal contaminants indicators, as well as Member States obligations under descriptor 8 of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive, the current study aims to further develop appropriate methodological standards using data collected by the established UK marine mammal pollutant monitoring programme (1990 to 2017) to assess the trends and status of PCBs in harbour porpoises. Within this case study, temporal trends of PCB blubber concentration in juvenile harbour porpoises were analysed using multiple linear regression models and toxicity thresholds for the onset of physiological (reproductive and immunological) endpoints were applied to all sex-maturity groups. Mean PCB blubber concentrations were observed to decline in all harbour porpoise Assessment Units and OSPAR Assessment Areas in UK waters. However, a high proportion of animals were exposed to concentrations deemed to be a toxicological threat, though the relative proportion declined in most Assessment Units/Areas over the last 10 years of the assessment. Recommendations were made for improving the quality of the assessment going forward, including detailing monitoring requirements for the successful implementation of such an indicator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie S Williams
- Institute of Zoology Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Andrew Brownlow
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Andrew Baillie
- The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD, London, UK
| | - Jonathan L Barber
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - James Barnett
- Cornwall Marine Pathology Team, Fishers Well, Higher Brill, Constantine, Falmouth TR11 5QG, UK
| | - Nicholas J Davison
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Robert Deaville
- Institute of Zoology Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Mariel Ten Doeschate
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Rod Penrose
- Marine Environmental Monitoring, Penwalk, Llechryd, Cardigan SA43 2PS, Ceredigion, UK
| | - Matthew Perkins
- Institute of Zoology Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | | | - Paul D Jepson
- Institute of Zoology Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Olga Lyashevska
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Department of Natural Resources & the Environment, School of Science and Computing, Atlantic Technical University, ATU Galway city, Ireland
| | - Sinéad Murphy
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Department of Natural Resources & the Environment, School of Science and Computing, Atlantic Technical University, ATU Galway city, Ireland.
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4
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Angiolillo M, Fortibuoni T, Di Lorenzo B, Tunesi L. First baseline assessment of seafloor litter on Italian coralligenous assemblages (Mediterranean Sea) in accordance with the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Mar Pollut Bull 2023; 187:114597. [PMID: 36642002 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114597] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
A monitoring programme for coralligenous assemblages was carried out in Italy for implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), aiming to characterise the coralligenous' environmental status and litter distribution. A standardised monitoring protocol, based on ROV-imaging, has been applied; this paper analyses the data obtained during the first MSFD cycle (2015-2019). Ninety-five areas were monitored at depths ranging between 14 and 199 m in the three subregions bordering Italy. Overall, 4316 macrolitter items were recorded. The median litter density was 2 items 100 m-2 (range: 0-120 items 100 m-2), but significant subregional differences emerged in litter quantities and composition. Fishery-related litter (mainly lines and ropes) was the most common type (86 %), affecting vulnerable coralligenous reefs. A first baseline is proposed for assessing achievement toward Good Environmental Status and evaluation of the efficacy of the Italian MSFD measures aiming to eliminate the negative effects of marine litter on vulnerable reefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Angiolillo
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Rome, Italy.
| | - Tomaso Fortibuoni
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy
| | - Bianca Di Lorenzo
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Tunesi
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Rome, Italy
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5
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Bäuerlein PS, Erich MW, van Loon WMGM, Mintenig SM, Koelmans AA. A monitoring and data analysis method for microplastics in marine sediments. Mar Environ Res 2023; 183:105804. [PMID: 36410161 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2022.105804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In Europe, policy frameworks demand the monitoring of microplastics in marine sediments. Here we provide a monitoring and data analysis method for microplastic particles designed to be used in the context of Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) and OSPAR policy frameworks. Microplastics were analysed in marine sediments at four different locations in Dutch coastal and transitional waters using replicate sampling to investigate micro-spatial variation. Particle size distribution followed a power law with slope 3.76. Thirteen polymers were identified, with their composition varying between sediments near densely populated West coast areas versus the more rural Wadden Sea area. We quantify differences in the micro-spatial variation of microplastic concentrations between locations using the relative standard error of the mean (RSEM). This metric provides an opportunity to optimize the sensitivity of trend detection in microplastic monitoring networks by selecting locations with relatively low micro-spatial variation. We provide a method to optimize the number of replicate samples for a given location using its relationship with the RSEM. Two replicate samples appear to be cost-effective for relatively homogenous locations, whereas more heterogenous locations require four replicates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Willem M G M van Loon
- Rijkswaterstaat, Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - Svenja M Mintenig
- Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Albert A Koelmans
- Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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6
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Anastácio J, Candeias JM, Cabral H, Domingos I. Relationships between marine litter and type of coastal area, in Northeast Atlantic sandy beaches. Mar Environ Res 2023; 183:105827. [PMID: 36444794 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2022.105827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter represents a threat to the marine environment, being estimated that around eight million items are discarded daily in the ocean. Monitoring marine debris became a relevant topic of research as marine litter is one of the descriptors of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, for European Union's member states. Nevertheless, the patterns and processes governing the disposal of waste in coastal areas are still not clear. Our study relates characteristics of eleven coastal areas in Portugal (urbanization, slope, distance to an estuary, length, and type of substrate) to the type and abundance of marine litter found. A total of 7743 items were identified, with the main types of litter found being plastic (71.2%), paper (16.3%), and sanitary waste (9.1%). A clear spatial distribution pattern was observed, with more litter items recorded in the zone corresponding to the high tide line (2.3 items m-2). It was also verified that both beaches and seasons influenced the amount of litter found. Plastic, the dominant marine litter group, was abundant on the vast majority of beaches. It was possible to identify litter with land and sea origins. The litter with land origin came mainly from sanitary and sewage-related waste while the litter with marine origin came mainly from fisheries, including aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Anastácio
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - José M Candeias
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Henrique Cabral
- INRAE, UR EABX, Centre Nouvelle Aquitaine Bordeaux, 50 Avenue de Verdun, 33612, Cestas, France
| | - Isabel Domingos
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal; MARE Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal
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7
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Valente T, Pelamatti T, Avio CG, Camedda A, Costantini ML, de Lucia GA, Jacomini C, Piermarini R, Regoli F, Sbrana A, Ventura D, Silvestri C, Matiddi M. One is not enough: Monitoring microplastic ingestion by fish needs a multispecies approach. Mar Pollut Bull 2022; 184:114133. [PMID: 36150223 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The development of monitoring programs based on bioindicators is crucial for assessing the impact of microplastic ingestion on marine organisms. This study presents results from an Italian pilot action aimed at investigating the suitability of a monitoring strategy based on a multispecies approach. The benthic-feeder Mullus barbatus, the demersal species Merluccius merluccius, and the pelagic-feeder species of the genus Scomber were used to assess the environmental contamination by microplastics in three different marine areas, namely Ancona (Adriatic Sea), Anzio (Tyrrhenian Sea), and Oristano (Western Sardinia). Microplastic ingestion frequencies were higher in samples from Anzio (26.7 %) and Ancona (25.0 %) than Oristano (14.4 %), suggesting a relationship between microplastic bioavailability and the proximity to urban settlements and river flows. Furthermore, microplastic ingestion was affected by the feeding habits of the examined species. The detected differences reinforce the hypothesis that a multispecies approach is needed to evaluate microplastic ingestion by marine animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Valente
- 'La Sapienza' University of Rome, Department of Environmental Biology, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, RM, Italy; ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy.
| | - Tania Pelamatti
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Carlo Giacomo Avio
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), Via Brecce Bianche snc, 60131 Ancona, AN, Italy
| | - Andrea Camedda
- IAS-CNR, Institute of Anthropic Impact and Sustainability in Marine Environment, National Research Council Oristano Section, Località Sa Mardini, 09170 Torregrande, OR, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Costantini
- 'La Sapienza' University of Rome, Department of Environmental Biology, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Andrea de Lucia
- IAS-CNR, Institute of Anthropic Impact and Sustainability in Marine Environment, National Research Council Oristano Section, Località Sa Mardini, 09170 Torregrande, OR, Italy
| | - Carlo Jacomini
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Raffaella Piermarini
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Francesco Regoli
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), Via Brecce Bianche snc, 60131 Ancona, AN, Italy
| | - Alice Sbrana
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy; PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Via della Ricerca Scientifica snc, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Daniele Ventura
- 'La Sapienza' University of Rome, Department of Environmental Biology, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Cecilia Silvestri
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Marco Matiddi
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
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Merchant ND, Putland RL, André M, Baudin E, Felli M, Slabbekoorn H, Dekeling R. A decade of underwater noise research in support of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Ocean Coast Manag 2022; 228:None. [PMID: 36133796 PMCID: PMC9472084 DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2022.106299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Underwater noise from human activities is now widely recognised as a threat to marine life. Nevertheless, legislation which directly addresses this source of pollution is lacking. The first (and currently only) example globally is Descriptor 11 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), adopted by the European Union in 2008, which requires that levels of underwater noise pollution do not adversely affect marine ecosystems. The MSFD has stimulated a concerted research effort across Europe to develop noise monitoring programmes and to conduct research towards specifying threshold values which would define 'Good Environmental Status' (GES) for underwater noise. Here, we chart the progress made during the first decade of Descriptor 11's implementation: 2010-2020. Several international joint monitoring programmes have been established for impulsive and continuous noise, enabling ecosystem-scale assessment for the first time. Research into the impact of noise on individual animals has grown exponentially, demonstrating a range of adverse effects at various trophic levels. However, threshold values for GES must be defined for 'populations of marine animals.' Population-level consequences of noise exposure can be modelled, but data to parameterise such models are currently unavailable for most species, suggesting that alternative approaches to defining GES thresholds will be necessary. To date, the application of measures to reduce noise levels (quieting/noise abatement) has been limited. To address this, the EU in 2021 identified an explicit need to reduce underwater noise pollution in its waters. Delivering on this ambition will require further research focused on the development and implementation of quieting measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan D. Merchant
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft, UK
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Rosalyn L. Putland
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft, UK
| | - Michel André
- Laboratory of Applied Bioacoustics, Technical University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Mario Felli
- Institute of Marine Engineering (INM), National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Hans Slabbekoorn
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
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9
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Mandić M, Gvozdenović S, De Vito D, Alfonso G, Daja S, Ago B, Cela E, Ivanović A, Zoto A, Malovrazić N, Beli E, Ingrosso G, De Leo F, Pestorić B, Lule A, Vata F, De Rinaldis A, Carpentieri C, Bode A, Nazaj S, Hoxhaj M, Durmishi C, Paladini G, Peraš I, Raičević M, Fraissinet S, Boero F, Piraino S. Setting thresholds is not enough: Beach litter as indicator of poor environmental status in the southern Adriatic Sea. Mar Pollut Bull 2022; 177:113551. [PMID: 35314395 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study deals with the issue of beach litter pollution in the context of the Descriptor 10 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive Good Environmental Status of EU waters and Ecological objective 10, Common indicator 22 of IMAP. Analyses of the amount, distribution and categorization of beach litter were conducted on nine beaches during 108 surveys covering the area of 206.620 m2 in Albania, Italy and Montenegro. Our findings showed that the level of beach litter pollution on south Adriatic beaches is significantly above the adopted threshold values, with a median item numbers of 327, 258 and 234 per 100 m of beach stretch for Albania, Italy and Montenegro, respectively. It can be concluded that, when it comes to beach litter pollution, GES has not been achieved. Given the defined baseline and threshold values at the EU level, the process of reducing the total amount of marine litter in southern Adriatic Sea will be very challenging and needs urgent and specific actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Mandić
- University of Montenegro, Institute of Marine Biology, Kotor, Montenegro.
| | | | - Doris De Vito
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare - CoNISMa, Roma, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Alfonso
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare - CoNISMa, Roma, Italy
| | - Shkelqim Daja
- Universiteti Politeknik i Tiranes - Fakulteti i Gjeologjise dhe Minierave, Tiranë, Albania
| | - Besnik Ago
- Universiteti Politeknik i Tiranes - Fakulteti i Gjeologjise dhe Minierave, Tiranë, Albania
| | - Eralba Cela
- National Coastline Agency of Albania, Tirana, Albania
| | | | - Alba Zoto
- National Coastline Agency of Albania, Tirana, Albania
| | | | - Elena Beli
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare - CoNISMa, Roma, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Ingrosso
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare - CoNISMa, Roma, Italy
| | - Francesco De Leo
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare - CoNISMa, Roma, Italy
| | - Branka Pestorić
- University of Montenegro, Institute of Marine Biology, Kotor, Montenegro
| | - Arjol Lule
- Universiteti Politeknik i Tiranes - Fakulteti i Gjeologjise dhe Minierave, Tiranë, Albania
| | - Flavio Vata
- National Coastline Agency of Albania, Tirana, Albania
| | | | | | - Aida Bode
- Universiteti Politeknik i Tiranes - Fakulteti i Gjeologjise dhe Minierave, Tiranë, Albania
| | - Shaqir Nazaj
- Universiteti Politeknik i Tiranes - Fakulteti i Gjeologjise dhe Minierave, Tiranë, Albania
| | - Monika Hoxhaj
- Universiteti Politeknik i Tiranes - Fakulteti i Gjeologjise dhe Minierave, Tiranë, Albania
| | - Cercis Durmishi
- Universiteti Politeknik i Tiranes - Fakulteti i Gjeologjise dhe Minierave, Tiranë, Albania
| | | | - Ines Peraš
- University of Montenegro, Institute of Marine Biology, Kotor, Montenegro
| | - Milena Raičević
- Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management of Montenegro, Montenegro
| | - Silvia Fraissinet
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare - CoNISMa, Roma, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Boero
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare - CoNISMa, Roma, Italy; Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Piraino
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare - CoNISMa, Roma, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche ed Ambientali, Università del Salento, Lecce, Italy.
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10
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Besada V, Bellas J, Sánchez-Marín P, Bernárdez P, Schultze F. Metal and metalloid pollution in shelf sediments from the Gulf of Cádiz (Southwest Spain): Long-lasting effects of a historical mining area. Environ Pollut 2022; 295:118675. [PMID: 34906592 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The Gulf of Cádiz is an area historically affected by acid mine drainage and also by the discharge of two important rivers, the Guadiana and the Guadalquivir. Metal and metalloid (As, Cd, Hg, Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, Ni, Mn, Fe, Al and Li) concentrations were measured in 33 surface sediment samples, collected in the continental shelf, inside the Ría de Huelva and the Bay of Cádiz, to assess the metal pollution status of this area. Geographical distribution was identified for different groups of metals: Cu, Cd, Zn, Hg and As were mainly associated with discharges of the Tinto and Odiel rivers, which have been historically affected by mining, into the Ría de Huelva. Sediments inside this Ría presented the highest concentrations of the whole area for these metals, and enrichment factors revealed that Hg and Cu pollution spread up to 20 km away from the mouth of this Ría, into the continental shelf. On the contrary, the distribution of Ni, Cr and Mn did not show a clear gradient with distance from a pollution source, and was mainly explained by geochemical factors, such as their association with fine materials. The comparison of metal concentrations with sediment quality guidelines, predicts that adverse ecological effects due to the metal pollution may be occurring in a group of stations located in the northwest corner of the studied area. Local background levels for metals in the Gulf of Cádiz were proposed and the information obtained will be useful to identify those areas where sampling must be intensified in ongoing Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) monitoring programs. These results corroborate that metal pollution is still a serious problem in the Gulf of Cádiz.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Besada
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390, Vigo, Spain.
| | - J Bellas
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390, Vigo, Spain
| | - P Sánchez-Marín
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390, Vigo, Spain
| | - P Bernárdez
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390, Vigo, Spain
| | - F Schultze
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390, Vigo, Spain
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11
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Uusitalo L, Blenckner T, Puntila-Dodd R, Skyttä A, Jernberg S, Voss R, Müller-Karulis B, Tomczak MT, Möllmann C, Peltonen H. Integrating diverse model results into decision support for good environmental status and blue growth. Sci Total Environ 2022; 806:150450. [PMID: 34599959 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable environmental management needs to consider multiple ecological and societal objectives simultaneously while accounting for the many uncertainties arising from natural variability, insufficient knowledge about the system's behaviour leading to diverging model projections, and changing ecosystem. In this paper we demonstrate how a Bayesian network- based decision support model can be used to summarize a large body of research and model projections about potential management alternatives and climate scenarios for the Baltic Sea. We demonstrate how this type of a model can act as an emulator and ensemble, integrating disciplines such as climatology, biogeochemistry, marine and fisheries ecology as well as economics. Further, Bayesian network models include and present the uncertainty related to the predictions, allowing evaluation of the uncertainties, precautionary management, and the explicit consideration of acceptable risk levels. The Baltic Sea example also shows that the two biogeochemical models frequently used in future projections give considerably different predictions. Further, inclusion of parameter uncertainty of the food web model increased uncertainty in the outcomes and reduced the predicted manageability of the system. The model allows simultaneous evaluation of environmental and economic goals, while illustrating the uncertainty of predictions, providing a more holistic view of the management problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Uusitalo
- Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Thorsten Blenckner
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Kräftriket 2B, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Riikka Puntila-Dodd
- Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Annaliina Skyttä
- Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Susanna Jernberg
- Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rudi Voss
- Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Wilhelm-Seelig-Platz 1, 24118 Kiel, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Deutscher Platz 5e, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Maciej T Tomczak
- Baltic Sea Centre, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christian Möllmann
- Institute of Marine Ecosystem and Fishery Science, Universität Hamburg, Große Elbstraße 133, 22767 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Heikki Peltonen
- Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
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12
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Vieira M, Fonseca PJ, Amorim MCP. Fish sounds and boat noise are prominent soundscape contributors in an urban European estuary. Mar Pollut Bull 2021; 172:112845. [PMID: 34399275 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Passive acoustic monitoring is a valuable tool for non-intrusive monitoring of marine environments, also allowing the assessment of underwater noise that can negatively affect marine organisms. Here we provide for the first time, an assessment of noise levels and temporal soundscape patterns for a European estuary. We used several eco-acoustics methodologies to characterize the data collected over six weeks within May 2016 - July 2017 from Tagus estuary. Biophony was the major contributor dominated by fish vocalizations and the main driver for seasonal patterns. Maritime traffic was the major source of anthropogenic noise, with daily patterns monitored using 1584 Hz third-octave band level. This indicator avoided biophony and geophony, unlike other indicators proposed for the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Furthermore, the frequency overlap between anthropophony and biophony demands precautionary actions and calls for further research. This study provides an assessment that will be useful for future monitoring and management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Vieira
- Departamento de Biologia Animal and cE3c - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal; MARE_Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA, Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Paulo J Fonseca
- Departamento de Biologia Animal and cE3c - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M Clara P Amorim
- MARE_Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA, Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
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13
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Bartolo AG, Tsiamis K, Küpper FC. Identifying hotspots of non-indigenous species' high impact in the Maltese islands (Central Mediterranean Sea). Mar Pollut Bull 2021; 164:112016. [PMID: 33540272 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112016] [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: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Several invasive non-indigenous species (NIS) cause ecological and socio-economic impacts. A good understanding of the impacts of invasive NIS in Mediterranean habitats is important for managing and prioritising measures in the marine environment. We applied a conservative additive model to sum up the Cumulative IMPacts of invasive Alien (CIMPAL) species of 19 invasive marine NIS on 13 habitats in Maltese waters. This analysis identified three hotspot areas of NIS' high impact and five top-priority together with four high-priority invasive NIS for management. By using CIMPAL, it was also possible to differentiate between areas within the same Marine Protected Area. CIMPAL is thus recommended as a good tool for managers and policy makers for prioritising measures as well as funds. Finally, recommendations are made with respect to future steps that are needed for the CIMPAL applicability, aiming to a more appropriate decision-making on prioritisation of hotspot areas and invasive marine NIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela G Bartolo
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Cruickshank Building, St. Machar Drive, Aberdeen AB24 3UU, Scotland, UK.
| | | | - Frithjof C Küpper
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Cruickshank Building, St. Machar Drive, Aberdeen AB24 3UU, Scotland, UK; Marine Biodiscovery Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3UE, Scotland, UK
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14
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Fortibuoni T, Amadesi B, Vlachogianni T. Composition and abundance of macrolitter along the Italian coastline: The first baseline assessment within the european Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Environ Pollut 2021; 268:115886. [PMID: 33120350 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The main objective of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) was to achieve a Good Environmental Status (GES) in European waters by 2020, according to 11 descriptors. Descriptor 10 is related to marine litter and envisages that the properties and quantities of marine litter are at a level that does not cause harm to the coastal and marine environment. Even if GES was not achieved by 2020, the first MSFD implementation cycle filled many gaps in knowledge. Here we present the first data (2015-2018) on beach litter densities along Italian coasts and discuss lessons learnt and future perspectives. The beach litter median density was 477 items/100 m (interquartile range: 261-934 items/100 m), but subregional differences emerged both in terms of litter quantities and composition. The Adriatic Sea was the most polluted subregion (590 items/100 m), followed by the Western Mediterranean Sea (491 items/100 m) and the Ionian Sea and Central Mediterranean Sea subregion (274 items/100 m). A high presence of aquaculture-related litter (mainly mussel nets) characterised beaches in the Adriatic Sea. At the same time, the numbers of cotton bud sticks were extremely high in some beaches of the Western Mediterranean Sea. General litter (items discarded or left by the public on the coast or inland and carried by winds and rivers or objects originating from tourism and recreation at land or sea, poor waste management practices, etc.) was the most common litter typology (38.8%). The results of this study represent the first baseline to compare achievement towards GES in the next years and the efficacy of the program of measures which entered into force in 2016, concerning beach litter densities and composition. They also highlight the necessity of a joint effort for deploying harmonised marine litter monitoring methodologies across the European Member States to obtain comparable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaso Fortibuoni
- Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Italy; National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics (OGS), Italy.
| | - Barbara Amadesi
- Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Italy.
| | - Thomais Vlachogianni
- Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development (MIO-ECSDE), Greece.
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15
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Murillas-Maza A, Uyarra MC, Papadopoulou KN, Smith CJ, Gorjanc S, Klancnik K, Paramana T, Chalkiadaki O, Dassenakis M, Pavicic M. Programmes of measures of the marine strategy framework directive: Are they contributing to achieving good environmental status in the Mediterranean? Mar Pollut Bull 2020; 161:111715. [PMID: 33022513 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) is the piece of legislation with which the EU aims to achieve Good Environmental Status (GES) of its seas. This Directive requires Member States (MSs) to set up and implement Programmes of Measures (PoMs) to achieve this goal. This paper presents a catalogue as well as the analysis of the 535 measures proposed by the eight Mediterranean EU MSs to combat pollution and non-indigenous species and contribute to the GES of the Mediterranean Sea. The results reiterate the need for better coherence and coordination between MSs, also with non-EU countries in the preparation of the next iteration of PoMs. Only 5% of the measures applied have an effect beyond MSs´ marine waters jurisdiction, and a fifth of them lack linkages with any ecosystem component. The results point to gaps, while desired goals and recommendations will help policy makers to implement the and conceptualise measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arantza Murillas-Maza
- AZTI-Tecnalia, Unidad de Investigación Marina, Txatxarramendi Ugartea z/g, 48395 Sukarrieta, Spain.
| | - María C Uyarra
- AZTI-Tecnalia, Unidad de Investigación Marina, Txatxarramendi Ugartea z/g, 48395 Sukarrieta, Spain.
| | - K Nadia Papadopoulou
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), PO Box 2214, Heraklion, Crete 71003, Greece.
| | - Chris J Smith
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), PO Box 2214, Heraklion, Crete 71003, Greece.
| | - Saso Gorjanc
- Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, Einspielerjeva ulica 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Katja Klancnik
- Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, Einspielerjeva ulica 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Theodora Paramana
- Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimioupoli 15784, Greece.
| | - Olga Chalkiadaki
- Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimioupoli 15784, Greece.
| | - Manos Dassenakis
- Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimioupoli 15784, Greece.
| | - Miso Pavicic
- Institution: Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića 63, 21 000 Split, Croatia).
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16
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Gorjanc S, Klančnik K, Murillas-Maza A, Uyarra MC, Papadopoulou NK, Paramana T, Smith C, Chalkiadaki O, Dassenakis M, Peterlin M. Coordination of pollution-related MSFD measures in the Mediterranean - Where we stand now and insights for the future. Mar Pollut Bull 2020; 159:111476. [PMID: 32892915 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Various pollutants keep threatening the environmental status of the Mediterranean Sea, while the Marine Strategy Framework Directive requires that Good Environmental Status needs to be achieved in European Seas by 2020. Previous reviews already established that the ambition levels of national Programmes of Measures (PoMs) are low. This study focuses on the analyses of the levels of coherence and coordination of the proposed PoMs in the Mediterranean, concentrating on nutrient, contaminant, and marine litter pollution, as well as the introduction of non-indigenous species. Coherence and pollinator analyses of the proposed measures of Mediterranean EU Member States (MS) were performed. The results demonstrate that while the current coordination between MS is almost non-existent, several measures are already addressing the same pressures in similar ways and could be easily coordinated on transnational level. Increased coordination and coherence of PoMs in the Mediterranean are vital for achieving good environmental status in future years.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gorjanc
- Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, Einspielerjeva ulica 6, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - K Klančnik
- Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, Einspielerjeva ulica 6, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - A Murillas-Maza
- AZTI - Tecnalia, Txatxarramendi ugartea z/g, 48395 Sukarrieta, Spain
| | - M C Uyarra
- AZTI - Tecnalia, Txatxarramendi ugartea z/g, 48395 Sukarrieta, Spain
| | - N K Papadopoulou
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, 46.7 Km Athinon-Souniou Avenue, 19013 Anavyssos, Greece
| | - Th Paramana
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 6, Christou Lada Str., 10561 Athens, Greece
| | - C Smith
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, 46.7 Km Athinon-Souniou Avenue, 19013 Anavyssos, Greece
| | - O Chalkiadaki
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 6, Christou Lada Str., 10561 Athens, Greece
| | - M Dassenakis
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 6, Christou Lada Str., 10561 Athens, Greece
| | - M Peterlin
- Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, Einspielerjeva ulica 6, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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17
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Berov D, Klayn S. Microplastics and floating litter pollution in Bulgarian Black Sea coastal waters. Mar Pollut Bull 2020; 156:111225. [PMID: 32366363 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Although marine plastic litter has been recognized as a global problem, there are insufficient data on the extent of plastic pollution in the Black Sea. The results from this pilot study of the floating marine litter and microplastics along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast revealed high quantities of floating litter (60.3-93.8 items.km-2). The microplastic concentrations (1.14 × 104-1.91 × 105 items.km-2, 0.33-490.52 g.km-2) were on average lower than those found in other parts of the Black Sea, the Baltic Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, although the observed ranges were similar. Further studies are needed to elaborate the extent and spatial distribution of this type of pollution in the Black Sea basin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitar Berov
- Marine Ecology Laboratory, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Yuri Gagarin Street, Sofia 1113, Bulgaria.
| | - Stefania Klayn
- Marine Ecology Laboratory, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Yuri Gagarin Street, Sofia 1113, Bulgaria
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18
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Manea E, Bianchelli S, Fanelli E, Danovaro R, Gissi E. Towards an Ecosystem-Based Marine Spatial Planning in the deep Mediterranean Sea. Sci Total Environ 2020; 715:136884. [PMID: 32018103 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.136884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The deep sea covers about 79% of the Mediterranean basin, including habitats potentially able to deliver multiple ecosystem services and numerous resources of high economic value. Thus, the deep Mediterranean Sea represents an important frontier for marine resources exploitation, which is embedded within the European Blue Growth Strategy goals and agendas. The deep sea is crucial for the ecological functioning of the entire basin. For this reason, the deep Mediterranean deserves protection from the potential cumulative impacts derived from existent and developing human activities. Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) has been identified as key instrument for spatially allocating maritime uses in the sea space avoiding spatial conflicts between activities, and between activities and the environment. Indeed, MSP incorporates the ecosystem-based approach (EB-MSP) to balance both socio-economic and environmental objectives, in line with the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Despite MSP is under implementation in Europe, the Directive is not applied yet for the managing and monitoring of the environmental status of the deep sea. In the Mediterranean, deep areas fall both in internal and territorial waters, and in High Seas, and its management framework turns out to be complicated. Moreover, a certain level of cumulative impacts in the deep Mediterranean has been already identified and likely underestimated because of paucity of knowledge related with deep-sea ecosystems. Thus, the implementation of scientific knowledge and the establishment of a sustainable management regime of deep-sea resources and space are urgent. This study aims at reflecting on the best available ecological knowledge on the deep Mediterranean to incorporate conservation objectives in EB-MSP. We propose a framework to include key ecological principles in the relevant phases of any EB-MSP processes taking in consideration existing socio-economic and conservation scenarios in the region. We add the uncertainty principle to reflect on the still unexplored and missing knowledge related to the deep Mediterranean. Here, we resume some guidelines to overcome limits and bottlenecks while ensuring protection of deep-sea ecosystems and resources in the Mediterranean Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Manea
- Department of Architecture and Arts, University Iuav of Venice, Tolentini, Santa Croce 191, 30135 Venice, Italy.
| | - S Bianchelli
- Department of Environmental and Life Science, Polytechnique University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - E Fanelli
- Department of Environmental and Life Science, Polytechnique University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - R Danovaro
- Department of Environmental and Life Science, Polytechnique University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Naples, Italy
| | - E Gissi
- Department of Architecture and Arts, University Iuav of Venice, Tolentini, Santa Croce 191, 30135 Venice, Italy
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19
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Avio CG, Pittura L, d'Errico G, Abel S, Amorello S, Marino G, Gorbi S, Regoli F. Distribution and characterization of microplastic particles and textile microfibers in Adriatic food webs: General insights for biomonitoring strategies. Environ Pollut 2020; 258:113766. [PMID: 31855672 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [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: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
This study provided a comprehensive characterization on ingestion of different typologies of microplastics in several fish and invertebrate species from the Adriatic Sea, considered as a preferential area of plastic accumulation in the Mediterranean. Almost 500 organisms were sampled in the three sectors of Northern, Central and Southern Adriatic, testing the hypothesis that area of collection, habitat and feeding strategy might influence the occurrence of plastic particles in biota. In this study, the overall characterization considered separately plastic microparticles (MPs) from textile microfibers (MFs) which also included natural and semi-synthetic ones. Ingestion of MPs was a widespread phenomenon, but their number (typically 1 or 2) did not reveal any significant relationship with biometric values, geographical areas or ecological features of the species. Conversely, the frequency of ingestion, ranging from 13 to 35% of organisms containing MPs, appeared a more reliable index to highlight such differences, revealing higher values in species from Central and Southern basins compared to the Northern one, as well as in benthopelagic compared to benthic or pelagic organisms. Geographical differences also occurred in terms of size and typology of ingested particles, suggesting the importance of local river runoffs and surface currents dynamics. Textile microfibers (MFs) were also abundant in Adriatic food webs occurring in all the analyzed species with average numbers (3-10) and frequencies (40-70%) higher than those reported for MPs; further, an elevated percentage of MFs (>80%) was of natural or semi-synthetic origin. Overall, this study provided general insights toward the harmonization of a common biomonitoring strategy, as in the context of MSFD, including the suggestion of a frequency-based index and of a multi-species approach to increase the ecological relevance of assessment, as well as the comparability between different areas and trophic webs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Giacomo Avio
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Lucia Pittura
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giuseppe d'Errico
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Serena Abel
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Sonia Amorello
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Marino
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorbi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Regoli
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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20
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Labuce A, Dimante-Deimantovica I, Tunens J, Strake S. Zooplankton indicator-based assessment in relation to site location and abiotic factors: a case study from the Gulf of Riga. Environ Monit Assess 2020; 192:147. [PMID: 31997068 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-020-8113-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
There are a number of zooplankton parameters proposed as indicators to evaluate environmental status of marine ecosystems. Mean size and total stock (MSTS) is the only zooplankton-based and HELCOM (Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission - Helsinki Commission)-approved core indicator. MSTS was developed to evaluate the environmental status of the Baltic Sea based on total biomass (or abundance) and mean body weight of mesozooplankton. This indicator reflects status of the food web and zooplankton biodiversity. Both are qualitative descriptors for determining good environmental status (GES) as defined by the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive 2008/56/EC. However, the existing indicator concept is applicable to the extent that it characterizes off-shore pelagic habitats, while use of MSTS for coastal habitats remains challenging. In this case study, we aimed to assess and discuss performance of MSTS applied to mesozooplankton data from the shallow Gulf of Riga. Both off-shore and coastal communities were included in the study. MSTS responses to variable environmental factors (temperature, salinity and riverine runoff) were analysed. Temporal variations in temperature revealed response in mean size, whereas salinity covaried with total stock (both - biomass and abundance). However, spatial variations of MSTS parameters stayed unexplained. The results demonstrate difficulties with and provide possible solutions for MSTS-based assessment, with a particular emphasis on coastal waters. The use of mesozooplankton abundance as a determinant parameter for assessment of coastal waters and substitution of the corresponding 99% confidence interval of the mean as an assessment value instead of the mean have been considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astra Labuce
- Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University, Voleru str. 4, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia.
| | - Inta Dimante-Deimantovica
- Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University, Voleru str. 4, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Gaustadalléen 21, NO-0349, Oslo, Norway
| | - Juris Tunens
- Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University, Voleru str. 4, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia
| | - Solvita Strake
- Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University, Voleru str. 4, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia
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21
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Maes T, Perry J, Alliji K, Clarke C, Birchenough SNR. Shades of grey: Marine litter research developments in Europe. Mar Pollut Bull 2019; 146:274-281. [PMID: 31426157 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 03/10/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
European research efforts to address concerns in relation to increasing levels of marine litter and potential effects on ecosystems and human health have been launched. We assessed a total of 52 European projects which researched or contributed to the implementation of European marine litter legislation. These projects ranged from national initiatives, to large scale programmes involving multiple EU member states. The best represented topics within those European projects were 'Policy, Governance and Management' and 'Monitoring'. Comparatively 'Risk Assessment', 'Fragmentation' and 'Assessment Tools' were underrepresented. The analyses showed that West-European countries have contributed more to marine litter research and therefore received more funding. As a result, thematic hotspots were present, and scientific capacity is concentrated by topic and countries. The results indicate the need to continue to support initiatives to cover clearly identified gaps, either geographic or thematic, to deliver risk assessments and recommendations to address the marine litter issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Maes
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK.
| | - Joe Perry
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Khatija Alliji
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Charlotte Clarke
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Silvana N R Birchenough
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
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22
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Pieper C, Amaral-Zettler L, Law KL, Loureiro CM, Martins A. Application of Matrix Scoring Techniques to evaluate marine debris sources in the remote islands of the Azores Archipelago. Environ Pollut 2019; 249:666-675. [PMID: 30933764 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.03.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Three-quarters of all marine debris (MD) consists of plastic, a reflection of their worldwide use, production and waste mismanagement. Data on MD distributions can improve our ability to effectively reduce debris that escapes onto shorelines and the ocean. In this study, the Matrix Scoring Technique (Marine Strategy Framework Directive Technical Group on Marine Litter) was applied as an approach to calculate the likelihood of single debris items originating from a series of potential sources. Factors considered were: identity and function of debris, beach location, influential activities, "mix" of debris found, presence of indicator items, and quantity of MD. The standing-stock (abundance and composition) of MD was investigated in two sandy beaches (Conceição and Porto Pim) of the Azores Archipelago (NE Atlantic) for the period 2012-2018. The results of this study show promise towards the implementation of a new classification method to determine beach debris sources in remote open-ocean areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharina Pieper
- University of the Azores, CIBIO InBIO - Research Centre in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources and OKEANOS, Centre for Research and Development at the University of the Azores, Department of Oceanography and Fisheries, Rua Prof. Dr. Frederico Machado, Horta, Azores, 9901-862, Portugal.
| | - Linda Amaral-Zettler
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 59, Den Burg, 1790 AB, the Netherlands.
| | - Kara Lavender Law
- Sea Education Association, P.O. Box 6, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, 02543, USA.
| | - Clara Magalhães Loureiro
- University of the Azores and OKEANOS, Centre for Research and Development at the University of the Azores, Department of Oceanography and Fisheries, Rua Prof. Dr. Frederico Machado, Horta, Azores, 9901-862, Portugal.
| | - Ana Martins
- University of the Azores and OKEANOS, Centre for Research and Development at the University of the Azores, Department of Oceanography and Fisheries, Rua Prof. Dr. Frederico Machado, Horta, Azores, 9901-862, Portugal.
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23
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Cau A, Bellodi A, Moccia D, Mulas A, Porcu C, Pusceddu A, Follesa MC. Shelf-life and labels: A cheap dating tool for seafloor macro litter? Insights from MEDITS surveys in Sardinian sea. Mar Pollut Bull 2019; 141:430-433. [PMID: 30955753 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.03.004] [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: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The global plastic economy demands to reduce the flow of plastic into oceans and promote remedial actions for already accumulated seafloor litter. In this perspective, baseline levels of contamination and tools for dating litter items in order to assess the efficacy of those actions, are thus needed. In this note we discuss the utility of introducing the acquisition of shelf-life and labels features from litter items into already established standardized protocols such as the one proposed by MEDiterranean International Trawl Survey (MEDITS). Our investigation was conducted on 612 high resolution images of litter items collected in each haul, which was retrieved during 6 years of surveys (2013-2018) around Sardinian sea (central western Mediterranean). While for the majority of items (89%) expiration date or labels were not present or legible, over 50% of dated items were likely dumped at sea from a period <5 years. In this perspective, this sort of data could represent a useful tool for monitoring the effectiveness of input reduction actions that implicitly rely on the gradual reduction of recently dumped items.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Cau
- Dipartimento di Scienze della vita e dell'ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Andrea Bellodi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della vita e dell'ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Moccia
- Dipartimento di Scienze della vita e dell'ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonello Mulas
- Dipartimento di Scienze della vita e dell'ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Cristina Porcu
- Dipartimento di Scienze della vita e dell'ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Pusceddu
- Dipartimento di Scienze della vita e dell'ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Follesa
- Dipartimento di Scienze della vita e dell'ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy
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24
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Giani D, Baini M, Galli M, Casini S, Fossi MC. Microplastics occurrence in edible fish species (Mullus barbatus and Merluccius merluccius) collected in three different geographical sub-areas of the Mediterranean Sea. Mar Pollut Bull 2019; 140:129-137. [PMID: 30803626 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.4] [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: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tracts of 229 demersal fish belonging to two species (Mullus barbatus, Merluccius merluccius) were examined for microplastic ingestion. Samples were collected in 3 different FAO Geographical Sub-Areas (GSA-9, GSA-17, GSA-19) of the Mediterranean Sea. Ingested microplastics were characterized using a stereo-microscope: observed, photographed, measured and categorized according to size class, shape and colour. Plastic fragments (ranging from 0.10 to 6.6 mm) were detected in 23.3% of the total investigated fish; a total of 65 plastic particles (66% constituted by fibers) were recorded. The percentage of plastic ingestion shows high variability between the two species and among the different sampling area. The highest frequency (48%) was found in European hake from GSA-19. These preliminary results represent a baseline for the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive descriptor 10 in Italy as well as an important step for detecting microplastics in bioindicator species from different GSAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Giani
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy
| | - Matteo Baini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy.
| | - Matteo Galli
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy
| | - Silvia Casini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy
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25
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D'Alessandro M, Esposito V, Porporato EMD, Berto D, Renzi M, Giacobbe S, Scotti G, Consoli P, Valastro G, Andaloro F, Romeo T. Relationships between plastic litter and chemical pollutants on benthic biodiversity. Environ Pollut 2018; 242:1546-1556. [PMID: 30145518 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Five Descriptors (D) of Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD): marine litter (D10), non-indigenous species (D2) and organic and inorganic pollutants (D8), were estimated in a coastal area of GSA 16 (Augusta harbour, Central Mediterranean Sea) in order to study their effects on the biodiversity (D1) of the benthic community D6) and to improve data for the MSFD. Investigation of plastic debris had led to the identification of 38 fragments divided into four categories, among which microplastics resulted as the most abundant. Six non-indigenous species, belonging to Polychaeta (Kirkegaardia dorsobranchialis, Notomastus aberans, Pista unibranchia, Pseudonereis anomala, Branchiomma bairdi) and Mollusca (Brachidontes pharaonis) were found. Biodiversity and benthic indices suggested a generalised, slightly disturbed ecological status. Anthracene, Zinc and Chrome were the most abundant chemical compounds in analysed sediments. Significant correlations were found between the abundance of trace elements vs biotic indices and between plastic debris vs biodiversity and benthic indices. This study represents the first report about the abundance of plastic debris and its relationship to contaminants and infauna in Augusta harbour. Our results can provide useful information for national and international laws and directives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela D'Alessandro
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, ISPRA via dei Mille 46, 98057, Milazzo, ME, Italy.
| | - Valentina Esposito
- OGS National Institute of Oceanography and Experimental Geophysics, via Auguste Piccard, 34151, Trieste, TS, Italy
| | - Erika M D Porporato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155 -30170 Venezia, Mestre, Italy
| | - Daniela Berto
- ISPRA Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Laboratory of Chioggia, Italy
| | - Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015, Orbetello, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giacobbe
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Messina, Viale Stagno d'Alcontres, 31-98166 S. Agata, Messina, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Scotti
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, ISPRA via dei Mille 46, 98057, Milazzo, ME, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Consoli
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, ISPRA via dei Mille 46, 98057, Milazzo, ME, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anton Dorhn, Villa Comunale 1, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Valastro
- Regional Agency for the Environmental Protection, ARPA, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Franco Andaloro
- ISPRA sts Palermo, Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo n. 4521 (ex complesso Roosevelt), Località Addaura, 90149, Palermo, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anton Dorhn, Villa Comunale 1, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Romeo
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, ISPRA via dei Mille 46, 98057, Milazzo, ME, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anton Dorhn, Villa Comunale 1, 80121, Naples, Italy
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26
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Pagter E, Frias J, Nash R. Microplastics in Galway Bay: A comparison of sampling and separation methods. Mar Pollut Bull 2018; 135:932-940. [PMID: 30301118 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics, an emerging pollutant, are recognised as having a ubiquitous distribution in the environment. Currently several benthic sampling tools are being employed to collect subtidal marine sediment, however, there are no comparative studies on the efficiency of these tools to sample for microplastics or the subsequent extraction methods of microplastics from these marine sediments. This study addresses these knowledge gaps by comparing commonly applied benthic sampling tools (Van Veen grab, box corer, gravity corer) and a variety of density separation methods (elutriation column, sodium chloride solution, sodium tungstate dihydrate solution) for microplastic collection and processing. Each sampling tool was tested at the same station and the collected sediment was used to assess the extraction performance for the different density separation techniques. No statistically significant differences were found between the concentrations of microplastics extracted for any of the sampling tools. However, there were significant differences between the density separation methods using sodium tungstate dihydrate and sodium chloride solution and the elutriation method. This preliminary study provides evidence that the sampling tools tested are both suitable and proficient at determining the abundance of microplastics in sediments. Sodium tungstate dihydrate proved to be a novel and feasible option for dense liquid separation of microplastics in subtidal marine sediments. These results will allow for more confidence in data quality when comparing future surveys applying different benthic sampling tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Pagter
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland.
| | - João Frias
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland
| | - Róisín Nash
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland
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27
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Elliott M, Boyes SJ, Barnard S, Borja Á. Using best expert judgement to harmonise marine environmental status assessment and maritime spatial planning. Mar Pollut Bull 2018; 133:367-377. [PMID: 30041326 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
All maritime states have the challenge of maintaining the environmental quality of their seas while at the same time maximising their economic potential thus requiring appropriate science, governance and management measures. In Europe, directives and regulations are used to address the pressures affecting the health and sustainability of marine resources, and to promote Good Environmental Status (GES) (e.g. the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, MSFD), while having a coherent and integrated pattern of sea use (e.g. the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive, MSPD). Therefore, an approach is required to meet these challenges for all maritime states including, for Europe, the joint adoption of these two directives. As such an approach does not yet exist, one is proposed here based on a hypothetical example and a Best Expert Judgement (BEJ) methodology. Forty-two marine science, management and impact assessment specialists provided views on a hypothetical marine scenario to derive and interrogate a framework applicable to marine areas with multiple uses and users. The scenario allowed the severity of the activity effects-footprints to be determined on the 11 MSFD Descriptors of GES with that severity being weighted according to the area of each activity effect-footprint. In turn, this allowed the calculation of marine regional environmental status thereby indicating whether the adoption of quality assessment and spatial planning can be mutually beneficial, or are antagonistic in meeting environmental targets. This paper uses the proposed approach to discuss maximising the assimilative capacity of a marine area and minimising the environmental degradation due to new activities. It especially shows the role of BEJ in cases where marine adaptive management is still required despite their being an often paucity of information or data on which to base management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Elliott
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS), University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK.
| | - Suzanne J Boyes
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS), University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Stephen Barnard
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS), University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Ángel Borja
- AZTI, Marine Research Division, Pasaia, Spain
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28
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Baini M, Fossi MC, Galli M, Caliani I, Campani T, Finoia MG, Panti C. Abundance and characterization of microplastics in the coastal waters of Tuscany (Italy): The application of the MSFD monitoring protocol in the Mediterranean Sea. Mar Pollut Bull 2018; 133:543-552. [PMID: 30041348 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [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: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring efforts are required to understand the sources, distribution and abundance of microplastic pollution. To verify the abundance of microplastics along the Tuscan coastal waters (Italy), water-column and surface samples were collected in two seasons across four transects at different distances to the coast (0.5, 5, 10 and 20 km), within the implementation of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The results show an average concentration of 0.26 items/m3 in the water-column samples and 41.1 g/km2 and 69,161.3 items/km2 of floating microplastics, with an increase with the distance to the coast The seasonality and the sampling area do not affect the abundance of microplastics. The most abundant size class is 1-2.5 mm as fragments and sheets suggesting that fragmentation of larger polyethylene and polypropylene items could be the main source of microplastics. These data represent the application of a harmonized protocol to make the data on microplastics comparable and reliable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Baini
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Matteo Galli
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Caliani
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Tommaso Campani
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Finoia
- ISPRA, Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via V. Brancati 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Panti
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
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Deidun A, Gauci A, Lagorio S, Galgani F. Optimising beached litter monitoring protocols through aerial imagery. Mar Pollut Bull 2018; 131:212-217. [PMID: 29886939 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The monitoring of beached litter along the coast is an onerous obligation enshrined within a number of legislative frameworks (e.g. the MSFD) and which requires substantial human resources in the field. Through this study, we have optimised the protocol for the monitoring of the same litter along coastal stretches within an MPA in the Maltese Islands through aerial drones, with the aim of generating density maps for the beached litter, of assisting in the identification of the same litter and of mainstreaming this type of methodology within national and regional monitoring programmes for marine litter. Concurrent and concomitant in situ monitoring of beached litter enabled us to ground truth the aerial imagery results. Results were finally discussed within the context of current and future MSFD monitoring obligations, with considerations made on possible future policy implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Deidun
- Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malta Tal-Qroqq campus, Msida MSD 2080, Malta.
| | - A Gauci
- Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malta Tal-Qroqq campus, Msida MSD 2080, Malta
| | - S Lagorio
- Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malta Tal-Qroqq campus, Msida MSD 2080, Malta
| | - F Galgani
- Station de Corse - IFREMER - Immeuble Agostini- Z.I. Furiani, 20600 Bastia, Corsica, France
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Abstract
Marine anthropogenic litter was analysed in eleven beaches along the Portuguese coast, over a two-year period (2011-2013). Of all collected items, 99% were plastic and 68% were microplastics (MP; 1-5 mm in diameter). Higher MP concentrations were found in winter/autumn, near industrial areas and/or port facilities and in beaches exposed to dominant winds. Resin pellets (79%) were the dominant category close to industrial areas and high concentrations of fragments and polymeric foams were found near fishing ports. The most frequent pellet size classes were 4 and 5 mm (respectively 47% and 42%). Results suggest that MP have predominately a land-based origin and are deliberately discarded or accidentally lost in watercourses and/or coastal areas. A combination of measures within stakeholders, namely industry and fishing sectors and share of good practices are needed to prevent marine anthropogenic litter.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Antunes
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Science and Environmental Engineering, FCT, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal.
| | - J Frias
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Science and Environmental Engineering, FCT, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal; Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland
| | - P Sobral
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Science and Environmental Engineering, FCT, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
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31
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Prevenios M, Zeri C, Tsangaris C, Liubartseva S, Fakiris E, Papatheodorou G. Beach litter dynamics on Mediterranean coasts: Distinguishing sources and pathways. Mar Pollut Bull 2018; 129:448-457. [PMID: 29029981 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [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: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We assessed amounts, composition and net accumulation rates every ~15days of beach macro litter (≥2.5cm) on 4 Mediterranean beaches, on Corfu island, N. Ionian Sea, taking into account natural and anthropogenic drivers. Average net accumulation rate on all beaches was found 142±115N/100m/15d. By applying a Generalized Linear Model (GzLM) it was shown that sea transport is the dominant pathway affecting the amount and variability in beach litter loadings. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) on compositional data and indicator items discerned two more pathways of beach litter, i.e. in situ litter from beach goers and wind and/or runoff transport of litter from land. By comparing the PCA results to those from a simple item to source attribution, it is shown that regardless their source litter items arrive at beaches from various pathways. Our data provide baseline knowledge for designing monitoring strategies and for setting management targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Prevenios
- Institute of Oceanography, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), 19013 Anavyssos, Greece; Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - Christina Zeri
- Institute of Oceanography, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), 19013 Anavyssos, Greece.
| | - Catherine Tsangaris
- Institute of Oceanography, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), 19013 Anavyssos, Greece
| | | | - Elias Fakiris
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - George Papatheodorou
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
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Kinda GB, Le Courtois F, Stéphan Y. Ambient noise dynamics in a heavy shipping area. Mar Pollut Bull 2017; 124:535-546. [PMID: 28755811 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The management of underwater noise within the European Union's waters is a significant component (Descriptor 11) of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The indicator related to continuous noise, is the noise levels in two one-third octave bands centered at 63Hz and 125Hz. This paper presents an analysis of underwater noise in the Celtic Sea, a heavy shipping area which also hosts the seasonal Ushant thermal front. In addition to the MSFD recommended frequency bands, the analysis was extended to lower and upper frequency bands. Temporal and spatial variations as well as the influence of the properties of the water column on the noise levels were assessed. The noise levels in the area had a high dynamic range and generally exceeded 100dB re 1μPa. Finally, the results highlighted that oceanic mooring must be designed to minimize the pseudo-noise and consider the water column physical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Bazile Kinda
- Shom, 13, rue du Chatellier, CS 92803, 29228 Brest cedex 2, France.
| | | | - Yann Stéphan
- Shom, 13, rue du Chatellier, CS 92803, 29228 Brest cedex 2, France
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Giltrap M, Ronan J, Bignell JP, Lyons BP, Collins E, Rochford H, McHugh B, McGovern E, Bull L, Wilson J. Integration of biological effects, fish histopathology and contaminant measurements for the assessment of fish health: A pilot application in Irish marine waters. Mar Environ Res 2017; 129:113-132. [PMID: 28501102 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the use of a weight of evidence (WOE) approach to evaluate fish health status and biological effects (BEs) of contaminants for assessment of ecosystem health and discusses its potential application in support of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). External fish disease, liver histopathology and several BEs of contaminant exposure including 7-ethoxy resorufin O-de-ethylase (EROD), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), bile metabolites, vitellogenin (VTG) and alkali labile phosphates (ALP) were measured in two flatfish species from four locations in Ireland. Contaminant levels in fish were generally low with PCBs in fish liver below OSPAR environmental assessment criteria (EAC). There were consistencies with low PCB levels, EROD and PAH bile metabolite levels detected in fish. Dab from Cork, Dublin and Shannon had the highest relative prevalence of liver lesions associated with the carcinogenic pathway. An integrated biomarker response (IBR) showed promise to be useful for evaluation of environmental risk, although more contaminant parameters in liver are required for a full assessment with the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Giltrap
- Zoology Department, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; Nanolab, FOCAS Research Institute, Dublin Institute of Technology, Kevin Street, Dublin 8, Ireland.
| | - Jenny Ronan
- Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - John P Bignell
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UB, United Kingdom
| | - Brett P Lyons
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UB, United Kingdom
| | - Evelyn Collins
- Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | | | - Brendan McHugh
- Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - Evin McGovern
- Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - Lorraine Bull
- Zoology Department, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - James Wilson
- Zoology Department, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Martínez-Gómez C, Fernández B, Robinson CD, Campillo JA, León VM, Benedicto J, Hylland K, Vethaak AD. Assessing environmental quality status by integrating chemical and biological effect data: The Cartagena coastal zone as a case. Mar Environ Res 2017; 124:106-117. [PMID: 27157536 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2016.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 07/15/2015] [Revised: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Cartagena coastal zone (W Mediterranean) was chosen for a practical case study to investigate the suitability of an integrated indicator framework for marine monitoring and assessment of chemicals and their effects, which was developed by ICES and OSPAR. Red mullet (Mullus barbatus) and the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) were selected as target species. Concentrations of contaminants in sediment and biota, and contaminant-related biomarkers were analysed. To assess environmental quality in the Cartagena coastal zone with respect to chemical pollution, data were assessed using available assessment criteria, and then integrated for different environmental matrices. A qualitative scoring method was used to rank the overall assessments into selected categories and to evaluate the confidence level of the final integrated assessment. The ICES/OSPAR integrated assessment framework, originally designed for the North Atlantic, was found to be applicable for Mediterranean species and environmental matrices. Further development of assessment criteria of chemical and biological parameters in sediments and target species from the Mediterranean will, however, be required before this framework can be fully applied for determining Good Environmental Status (GES) of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive in these regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concepción Martínez-Gómez
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Oceanographic Centre of Murcia, Varadero 1, PO BOX 22, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar (Murcia), Spain.
| | - Beatriz Fernández
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Oceanographic Centre of Murcia, Varadero 1, PO BOX 22, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar (Murcia), Spain.
| | - Craig D Robinson
- Marine Scotland Science, Marine Laboratory, 375 Victoria Road, Aberdeen, AB11 9DB, UK.
| | - J Antonio Campillo
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Oceanographic Centre of Murcia, Varadero 1, PO BOX 22, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar (Murcia), Spain.
| | - Víctor M León
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Oceanographic Centre of Murcia, Varadero 1, PO BOX 22, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar (Murcia), Spain.
| | - José Benedicto
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Oceanographic Centre of Murcia, Varadero 1, PO BOX 22, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar (Murcia), Spain.
| | - Ketil Hylland
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO Box 1066, Blindern, N0316 Oslo, Norway.
| | - A Dick Vethaak
- VU University Amsterdam, Institute for Environmental Studies, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Deltares, Marine and Coastal Systems, P.O. Box 177, 2600 MH Delft, The Netherlands.
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35
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Vethaak AD, Davies IM, Thain JE, Gubbins MJ, Martínez-Gómez C, Robinson CD, Moffat CF, Burgeot T, Maes T, Wosniok W, Giltrap M, Lang T, Hylland K. Integrated indicator framework and methodology for monitoring and assessment of hazardous substances and their effects in the marine environment. Mar Environ Res 2017; 124:11-20. [PMID: 26604023 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2015.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [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: 06/20/2015] [Revised: 09/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Many maritime countries in Europe have implemented marine environmental monitoring programmes which include the measurement of chemical contaminants and related biological effects. How best to integrate data obtained in these two types of monitoring into meaningful assessments has been the subject of recent efforts by the International Council for Exploration of the Sea (ICES) Expert Groups. Work within these groups has concentrated on defining a core set of chemical and biological endpoints that can be used across maritime areas, defining confounding factors, supporting parameters and protocols for measurement. The framework comprised markers for concentrations of, exposure to and effects from, contaminants. Most importantly, assessment criteria for biological effect measurements have been set and the framework suggests how these measurements can be used in an integrated manner alongside contaminant measurements in biota, sediments and potentially water. Output from this process resulted in OSPAR Commission (www.ospar.org) guidelines that were adopted in 2012 on a trial basis for a period of 3 years. The developed assessment framework can furthermore provide a suitable approach for the assessment of Good Environmental Status (GES) for Descriptor 8 of the European Union (EU) Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD).
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Affiliation(s)
- A Dick Vethaak
- Deltares, Marine and Coastal Systems, Boussinesqweg 1, 2629 HV Delft, The Netherlands; Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Ian M Davies
- Marine Scotland Science, Marine Laboratory, 375 Victoria Road, Aberdeen AB11 9DB, UK
| | - John E Thain
- CEFAS, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Weymouth Laboratory, Barrack Road, The Nothe, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Matthew J Gubbins
- Marine Scotland Science, Marine Laboratory, 375 Victoria Road, Aberdeen AB11 9DB, UK
| | - Concepción Martínez-Gómez
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Oceanographic Centre of Murcia, Varadero 1, PO BOX 22, 30740, San Pedro del Pinatar Murcia, Spain
| | - Craig D Robinson
- Marine Scotland Science, Marine Laboratory, 375 Victoria Road, Aberdeen AB11 9DB, UK
| | - Colin F Moffat
- Marine Scotland Science, Marine Laboratory, 375 Victoria Road, Aberdeen AB11 9DB, UK
| | - Thierry Burgeot
- IFREMER, Laboratory of Ecotoxicology, Rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, B.P. 21105, F-44311 Nantes Cédex 03, France
| | - Thomas Maes
- CEFAS, Centre for Environment, Fisheries, Aquaculture and Science, Pakefield Road, NR330HT, UK
| | - Werner Wosniok
- Institute of Statistics, University of Bremen, Achterstr. 30, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Lang
- Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology, Deichstr. 12, 27472 Cuxhaven, Germany
| | - Ketil Hylland
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO Box 1066, Blindern, N-0316 Oslo, Norway
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Oesterwind D, Rau A, Zaiko A. Drivers and pressures - Untangling the terms commonly used in marine science and policy. J Environ Manage 2016; 181:8-15. [PMID: 27294675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2016.05.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [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: 11/23/2015] [Revised: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In the marine sciences an increasing number of studies on environmental changes, their causes, and environmental assessments emerged in recent years. Often authors use non-uniform and inconsistent definitions of key terms like driver, threats, pressures etc. Although all of these studies clearly define causal dependencies between the interacting socio-economic and environmental systems in an understandable way, still an overall imprecise wording could induce misunderstanding at higher policy levels when it comes to integrated ecosystems assessments. Therefore we recommend using unified definitions for a better communication between science and management within national, regional and international environmental policies, for example the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). With this article we provide definitions compatible with the driver-pressure-state-impact-response (DPSIR) approach. Although most examples are MSFD related and thus have a marine focus the definitions are intended to be equally applicable for other systems and are usable world-wide. We suggest sticking to these definitions for an easy and simplified knowledge transfer from science to management, since DPSIR model is already accepted as a helpful tool for structuring and communicating ecosystem analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Oesterwind
- Thünen Institute of Baltic Sea Fisheries, Alter Hafen Süd 2, 18069 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Andrea Rau
- Thünen Institute of Baltic Sea Fisheries, Alter Hafen Süd 2, 18069 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Anastasija Zaiko
- Klaipėda University, Marine Science and Technology Centre, H. Manto str. 84, LT 92294 Klaipėda, Lithuania; Coastal and Freshwater Group, Cawthron Institute, 98 Halifax Street East, 7010 Nelson, New Zealand.
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37
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Garrett JK, Blondel P, Godley BJ, Pikesley SK, Witt MJ, Johanning L. Long-term underwater sound measurements in the shipping noise indicator bands 63Hz and 125Hz from the port of Falmouth Bay, UK. Mar Pollut Bull 2016; 110:438-448. [PMID: 27393210 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic low-frequency anthropogenic sound, such as shipping noise, may be negatively affecting marine life. The EU's Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) includes a specific indicator focused on this noise. This indicator is the yearly average sound level in third-octave bands with centre frequencies at 63Hz and 125Hz. These levels are described for Falmouth Bay, UK, an active port at the entrance to the English Channel. Underwater sound was recorded for 30min h(-1) over the period June 2012 to November 2013 for a total of 435days. Mean third-octave levels were louder in the 125-Hz band (annual mean level of 96.0dB re 1μPa) than in the 63-Hz band (92.6dB re 1 μPa). These levels and variations are assessed as a function of seasons, shipping activity and wave height, providing comparison points for future monitoring activities, including the MSFD and emerging international regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Garrett
- College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - Ph Blondel
- Department of Physics, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, UK.
| | - B J Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK; Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - S K Pikesley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - M J Witt
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - L Johanning
- College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
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38
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Bellas J, Martínez-Armental J, Martínez-Cámara A, Besada V, Martínez-Gómez C. Ingestion of microplastics by demersal fish from the Spanish Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. Mar Pollut Bull 2016; 109:55-60. [PMID: 27289284 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 304] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [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: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/04/2016] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has received increased attention over the last few years. This study documents microplastic ingestion in three commercially relevant demersal fish species from the Spanish Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, the lesser spotted dogfish Scyliorhinus canicula, the European hake Merluccius merluccius and the red mullet Mullus barbatus. Overall 212 fish were examined, 72 dogfish, 12 hakes and 128 red mullets. The percentage of fish with microplastics was 17.5% (15.3% dogfish, 18.8% red mullets and 16.7% hakes), averaging 1.56±0.5 items per fish, and the size of the microplastics ranged from 0.38 to 3.1mm. These fish species are used currently as biomonitors for marine pollution monitoring within the Spanish Marine Pollution Monitoring Programme (SMP), and may be as well suitable candidates for monitoring spatial and temporal trends of ingested litter. The data presented here represent a baseline for the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive descriptor 10 in Spain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Bellas
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, IEO, Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain.
| | - José Martínez-Armental
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, IEO, Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - Ariana Martínez-Cámara
- Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, IEO,Varadero 1, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Spain
| | - Victoria Besada
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, IEO, Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - Concepción Martínez-Gómez
- Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, IEO,Varadero 1, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Spain
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Aytan U, Valente A, Senturk Y, Usta R, Esensoy Sahin FB, Mazlum RE, Agirbas E. First evaluation of neustonic microplastics in Black Sea waters. Mar Environ Res 2016; 119:22-30. [PMID: 27187153 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2016.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The Black Sea has a high risk of plastic pollution given the high river discharge of several industrialized countries into this semi-enclosed sea. Here, for the first time, the occurrence and distribution of microplastics are reported for the Black Sea. Microplastics were assessed from zooplankton samples taken during two cruises along the south eastern coast of the Black Sea in the November of 2014 and February of 2015. In each cruise neuston samples were collected at 12 stations using a WP2 net with 200 μm mesh. Microplastics (0.2-5 mm) were found in 92% of the samples. The primary shapes were fibres (49.4%) followed by plastic films (30.6%) and fragments (20%), and no micro beads were found. Average microplastic concentration in November (1.2 ± 1.1 × 10(3) par. m(-3)) was higher than in February (0.6 ± 0.55 × 10(3) par. m(-3)). Reduced concentrations in February were possibly caused by increased mixing. The highest concentrations of microplastics were observed in offshore stations during November sampling. The heterogeneous spatial distribution (0.2 × 10(3)-3.3 × 10(3) par. m(-3) for all samples) and accumulation in some stations could be associated to transport and retention mechanisms linked with wind and the dynamics of the rim current, as well by different sources of plastic. There were no statistically significant differences in MP concentration between sampling stations and sampling periods (t-test, p < 0.05).The relatively high microplastic concentrations suggest that Black Sea is a hotspot for microplastic pollution and there is an urgency to understand their origins, transportation and effects on marine life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulgen Aytan
- Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100 Rize, Turkey.
| | - Andre Valente
- Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, (MARE), Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Yasemen Senturk
- Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100 Rize, Turkey
| | - Riza Usta
- Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100 Rize, Turkey
| | | | | | - Ertugrul Agirbas
- Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100 Rize, Turkey
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Barrio Froján CRS, Cooper KM, Bolam SG. Towards an integrated approach to marine benthic monitoring. Mar Pollut Bull 2016; 104:20-28. [PMID: 26856642 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.01.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In the UK, most marine benthic monitoring is carried out in a piecemeal fashion, funded by different sectors of industry that utilise the marine environment under licence. Monitoring requirements are imposed by licence conditions, which can vary considerably between licences. The UK Government also conducts marine environmental surveys in support of its legislative commitments. The present investigation reviews these different monitoring approaches to highlight whether synergies between them could be developed into an integrated approach to marine benthic monitoring. An integrated approach would have ecological benefits, as greater consistency in sampling and analytical protocols would reduce uncertainty in the predictions of impact, and facilitate the assessment of Good Environmental Status under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The same approach would also be of financial benefit, as spatio-temporal duplication in sampling would be reduced, and the value of acquired data would be maximised, resulting in a more efficient and cost-effective approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R S Barrio Froján
- Centre for the Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, United Kingdom.
| | - Keith M Cooper
- Centre for the Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan G Bolam
- Centre for the Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
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Frias JPGL, Gago J, Otero V, Sobral P. Microplastics in coastal sediments from Southern Portuguese shelf waters. Mar Environ Res 2016; 114:24-30. [PMID: 26748246 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2015.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [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: 09/27/2015] [Revised: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are well-documented pollutants in the marine environment that result from fragmentation of larger plastic items. Due to their long chemical chains, they can remain in the environment for long periods of time. It is estimated that the vast majority (80%) of marine litter derives from land sources and that 70% will sink and remain at the bottom of the ocean. Microplastics that result from fragmentation of larger pieces of plastic are common to be found in beaches and in the water surface. The most common microplastics are pellets, fragments and fibres. This work provides original data of the presence of microplastics in coastal sediments from Southern Portuguese shelf waters, reporting on microplastic concentration and polymer types. Microplastic particles were found in nearly 56% of sediment samples, accounting a total of 31 particles in 27 samples. The vast majority were microfibers (25), identified as rayon fibres, and fragments (6) identified as polypropylene, through infrared spectroscopy (μ-FTIR). The concentration and polymer type data is consistent with other relevant studies and reports worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P G L Frias
- MARE FCT-UNL - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Departamento de Ciências e Engenharia do Ambiente, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte de Caparica, Portugal.
| | - J Gago
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52, Vigo 36390, Spain
| | - V Otero
- Department of Conservation and Restoration and REQUIMTE-LAQV, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte da Caparica, Portugal
| | - P Sobral
- MARE FCT-UNL - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Departamento de Ciências e Engenharia do Ambiente, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte de Caparica, Portugal
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42
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Moriarty M, Pedreschi D, Stokes D, Dransfeld L, Reid DG. Spatial and temporal analysis of litter in the Celtic Sea from Groundfish Survey data: Lessons for monitoring. Mar Pollut Bull 2016; 103:195-205. [PMID: 26795120 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The Marine Strategy Framework Directive requires EU Member States to sample and monitor marine litter. Criteria for sampling and detecting spatial and/or temporal variation in the amount of litter present have been developed and initiated throughout Europe. These include implementing standardised sampling and recording methods to enable cross-comparison and consistency between neighbours. Parameters of interest include; litter occurrence, composition, distribution and source. This paper highlights the litter-related initiatives occurring in Irish waters; presents an offshore benthic litter sampling series; provides a power analysis to determine trend detection thresholds; identifies areas and sources of litter; and proposes improvements to meet reporting obligations. Litter was found to be distributed throughout Irish waters with highest occurrences in the Celtic Sea. Over 50% of litter encountered was attributed to fishing activities: however only a small proportion of the variability in litter occurrence could be explained by spatial patterns in fishing effort. Issues in implementing standardised protocol were observed and addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Moriarty
- Fisheries Ecosystem & Advisory Services, Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland.
| | - D Pedreschi
- Fisheries Ecosystem & Advisory Services, Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - D Stokes
- Fisheries Ecosystem & Advisory Services, Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - L Dransfeld
- Fisheries Ecosystem & Advisory Services, Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - D G Reid
- Fisheries Ecosystem & Advisory Services, Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
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43
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Veiga JM, Vlachogianni T, Pahl S, Thompson RC, Kopke K, Doyle TK, Hartley BL, Maes T, Orthodoxou DL, Loizidou XI, Alampei I. Enhancing public awareness and promoting co-responsibility for marine litter in Europe: The challenge of MARLISCO. Mar Pollut Bull 2016; 102:309-315. [PMID: 26874746 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 06/16/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a pervasive and complex societal problem but has no simple solution. Inadequate practices at all levels of production-use-disposal contribute to accumulation of waste on land and at sea. Enhanced societal awareness but also co-responsibility across different sectors and improved interactions between stakeholders are necessary. MARLISCO was a European initiative, which developed and implemented activities across 15 countries. It worked towards raising societal awareness and engagement on marine litter, through a combination of approaches: public exhibitions in over 80 locations; a video competition involving 2100 students; and a legacy of educational and decision-supporting tools. 12 national participatory events designed to facilitate dialogue on solutions brought together 1500 stakeholders and revealed support for cross-cutting, preventive measures. Evaluation during implementation shows that these activities are effective in improving individuals' perceptions about the problem but also commitment in being part of the solution. This paper summarises MARLISCO's approach and highlights a selection of outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana M Veiga
- Coastal & Marine Union (EUCC), P.O. Box 11232, 2301 EE Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Thomais Vlachogianni
- Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development (MIO-ECSDE), 12, Kyrristou Str., 105 56 Athens, Greece.
| | - Sabine Pahl
- School of Psychology, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
| | - Richard C Thompson
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
| | - Kathrin Kopke
- MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute, Beaufort Building, University College Cork, Haulbowline Road, Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork, Ireland.
| | - Thomas K Doyle
- MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute, Beaufort Building, University College Cork, Haulbowline Road, Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork, Ireland; School of Natural Sciences (Zoology), Martin Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Bonny L Hartley
- School of Psychology, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
| | - Thomas Maes
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Pakefield Road, NR33 0HT Lowestoft, United Kingdom.
| | - Demetra L Orthodoxou
- ISOTECH Ltd Environmental Research and Consultancy, 1 Kalliopis Str. & Larnakos Ave., Apt. 401, 2102 Aglantzia, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Xenia I Loizidou
- ISOTECH Ltd Environmental Research and Consultancy, 1 Kalliopis Str. & Larnakos Ave., Apt. 401, 2102 Aglantzia, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Iro Alampei
- Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development (MIO-ECSDE), 12, Kyrristou Str., 105 56 Athens, Greece.
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44
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Jayasinghe RPPK, Amarasinghe US, Newton A. Evaluation of marine subareas of Europe using life history parameters and trophic levels of selected fish populations. Mar Environ Res 2015; 112:81-90. [PMID: 26297042 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2015.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
European marine waters include four regional seas that provide valuable ecosystem services to humans, including fish and other seafood. However, these marine environments are threatened by pressures from multiple anthropogenic activities and climate change. The European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) was adopted in 2008 to achieve good environmental status (GEnS) in European Seas by year 2020, using an Ecosystem Approach. GEnS is to be assessed using 11 descriptors and up to 56 indicators. In the present analysis two descriptors namely "commercially exploited fish and shellfish populations" and "food webs" were used to evaluate the status of subareas of FAO 27 area. Data on life history parameters, trophic levels and fisheries related data of cod, haddock, saithe, herring, plaice, whiting, hake and sprat were obtained from the FishBase online database and advisory reports of International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). Subareas inhabited by r and K strategists were identified using interrelationships of life history parameters of commercially important fish stocks. Mean trophic level (MTL) of fish community each subarea was calculated and subareas with species of high and low trophic level were identified. The Fish in Balance (FiB) index was computed for each subarea and recent trends of FiB indices were analysed. The overall environmental status of each subarea was evaluated considering life history trends, MTL and FiB Index. The analysis showed that subareas I, II, V, VIII and IX were assessed as "good" whereas subareas III, IV, VI and VII were assessed as "poor". The subareas assessed as "good" were subject to lower environmental pressures, (less fishing pressure, less eutrophication and more water circulation), while the areas with "poor" environment experienced excessive fishing pressure, eutrophication and disturbed seabed. The evaluation was based on two qualitative descriptors ("commercially exploited fish and shellfish populations" and "food webs") is therefore more robust.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Prabath K Jayasinghe
- Marine Biological Resources Division, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency, Crow Island, Colombo 15, Sri Lanka; Erasmus Mundus Office, Aulario Norte, Puerto Real Campus, University of Cadiz, 11519 Puerto Real, Cadiz, Spain.
| | - Upali S Amarasinghe
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Management, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
| | - Alice Newton
- CIMA, Gambelas Campus, University of Algarve, Faro 8005-139, Portugal; NILU-IMPEC, Box 100, 2027 Kjeller, Norway.
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45
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Wilson JG, Minchin D, McHugh B, McGovern E, Tanner CJ, Giltrap M. Declines in TBT contamination in Irish coastal waters 1987-2011, using the dogwhelk (Nucella lapillus) as a biological indicator. Mar Pollut Bull 2015; 100:289-296. [PMID: 26443386 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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: 02/16/2015] [Revised: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Using the vas deferens sequence index (VDSI) and relative penis size index (RPSI) in dogwhelks (Nucella lapillus), imposex levels were assessed at 63 sites within 11 sea inlets during 2010/2011 and compared these with levels gathered since 1987. Sterile females (VDS>5.0) were found at 14 of the 63 sites and 47 sites (75%) met the EcoQO (VDSI<2.0). The absence of imposex in 'control' areas on the west coast is due to the lack of vessel paint applications or net dips with TBT being used as an active anti-fouling ingredient. A significant decline was observed following 2005 when comparing VDSI levels which is consistent with the decline of TBT usage. Current levels are consistent with an overall improvement towards achieving Good Environmental Status according to the requirements under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
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Affiliation(s)
- J G Wilson
- Zoology Department, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - D Minchin
- MOI, Marina Village, Ballina, Killaloe, Co. Clare, Ireland; Marine Science and Technology Center, Klaipeda University, 84 Manto, Klaipeda, Lithuania
| | - B McHugh
- Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - E McGovern
- Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland
| | - C J Tanner
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, USA
| | - M Giltrap
- Zoology Department, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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46
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Galgani F, Claro F, Depledge M, Fossi C. Monitoring the impact of litter in large vertebrates in the Mediterranean Sea within the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive ( MSFD): constraints, specificities and recommendations. Mar Environ Res 2014; 100:3-9. [PMID: 24612883 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2014.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [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: 09/20/2013] [Revised: 02/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/15/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
In its decision (2010/477/EU) relating to the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD, 2008/56/EC), the European Commission identified the following points as focuses for monitoring: (i) 10.1.1: Trends in the amount, source and composition of litter washed ashore and/or deposited on coastlines, (ii) 10.1.2: Trends in the amount and composition of litter in the water column and accumulation on the sea floor, (iii) 10.1.3: Trends in the amount, distribution and composition of micro-particles (mainly microplastics), and (iv) 10.2.1: Trends in the amount and composition of litter ingested by marine animals. Monitoring the impacts of litter will be considered further in 2014. At that time, the strategy will be discussed in the context of the Mediterranean Sea, providing information on constraints, protocols, existing harm and research needed to support monitoring efforts. The definition of targets and acceptable levels of harm must take all factors into account, whether entanglement, ingestion, the transport and release of pollutants, the transport of alien species and socio-economic impacts. It must also reflect on the practical deployment of "ingestion" measures (10.2.1). The analysis of existing data will reveal the potential and suitability of some higher trophic level organisms (fish, turtles, birds and mammals) for monitoring the adverse effects of litter. Sea turtles appear to be useful indicator species, but the definition of an ecological quality objective is still needed, as well as research on alternative potential indicator species.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Galgani
- Ifremer, Immeuble Agostini, ZI Furiani, 20600 Bastia, Corsica, France.
| | - F Claro
- Museum national d'Histoire naturelle, GTMF, CP41, 57 rue Cuvier, 75231 Paris cedex 05, France
| | - M Depledge
- University of Exeter, Devon EX4 4QJ, United Kingdom
| | - C Fossi
- University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
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47
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Azzellino A, Fossi MC, Gaspari S, Lanfredi C, Lauriano G, Marsili L, Panigada S, Podestà M. An index based on the biodiversity of cetacean species to assess the environmental status of marine ecosystems. Mar Environ Res 2014; 100:94-111. [PMID: 25016937 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 09/28/2013] [Revised: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/08/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) requires the assessment of the environmental status in relation to human pressures. In this study the biodiversity of the cetacean community is proposed as MSFD descriptor of the environmental status and its link with anthropogenic pressures is investigated. Functional groups are generally favoured over indicator species since they are thought to better reflect to anthropogenic stressors. Cetaceans are in many situations the most well known component of pelagic ecosystems. Their habitat requirements are known and can be used to evaluate the theoretical biodiversity that should be expected in a certain area. The deviations between the theoretical biodiversity and the actual biodiversity may be used to detect the impacts of human activities. Based on this analysis fishery resulted to be by far the most significant of the existing pressures. Among all the species, bottlenose dolphin was found the most correlated with the fishery sector dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Azzellino
- Politecnico di Milano, DICA, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci, 32, 20133 Milano, Italy; Tethys Research Institute, viale Gadio, 2, 20121 Milano, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Dpt. of Physical, Earth and Environ. Sciences, University of Siena, Via PA Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Stefania Gaspari
- Università degli Studi di Firenze, Dipartimento di Biologia, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 0019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy
| | - Caterina Lanfredi
- Politecnico di Milano, DICA, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci, 32, 20133 Milano, Italy; Tethys Research Institute, viale Gadio, 2, 20121 Milano, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Lauriano
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Brancati, 60, 00144 Roma, Italy
| | - Letizia Marsili
- Dpt. of Physical, Earth and Environ. Sciences, University of Siena, Via PA Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Simone Panigada
- Tethys Research Institute, viale Gadio, 2, 20121 Milano, Italy
| | - Michela Podestà
- Museum of Natural History of Milan, C.so Venezia 55, 20121 Milano, Italy
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48
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Frias JPGL, Otero V, Sobral P. Evidence of microplastics in samples of zooplankton from Portuguese coastal waters. Mar Environ Res 2014; 95:89-95. [PMID: 24461782 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2014.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [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: 10/29/2013] [Revised: 12/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/04/2014] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Records of high concentrations of plastic and microplastic marine debris floating in the ocean have led to investigate the presence of microplastics in samples of zooplankton from Portuguese coastal waters. Zooplankton samples collected at four offshore sites, in surveys conducted between 2002 and 2008, with three different sampling methods, were used in this preliminary study. A total of 152 samples were processed and microplastics were identified in 93 of them, corresponding to 61% of the total. Costa Vicentina, followed by Lisboa, were the regions with higher microplastic concentrations (0.036 and 0.033 no. m⁻³) and abundances (0.07 and 0.06 cm³ m⁻³), respectively. Microplastic: zooplankton ratios were also higher in these two regions, which is probably related to the proximity of densely populated areas and inputs from the Tejo and Sado river estuaries. Microplastics polymers were identified using Micro Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (μ-FTIR), as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polyacrylates (PA). The present work is the first report on the composition of microplastic particles collected with plankton nets in Portuguese coastal waters. Plankton surveys from regular monitoring campaigns conducted worldwide may be used to monitor plastic particles in the oceans and constitute an important and low cost tool to address marine litter within the scope of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC).
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Affiliation(s)
- J P G L Frias
- IMAR - Instituto do Mar, Departamento de Ciências e Engenharia do Ambiente, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte de Caparica, Portugal.
| | - V Otero
- Departamento de Conservação e Restauro, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte de Caparica, Portugal; REQUIMTE-CQFB, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte de Caparica, Portugal
| | - P Sobral
- IMAR - Instituto do Mar, Departamento de Ciências e Engenharia do Ambiente, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte de Caparica, Portugal
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49
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Tornero V, Ribera d'Alcalà M. Contamination by hazardous substances in the Gulf of Naples and nearby coastal areas: a review of sources, environmental levels and potential impacts in the MSFD perspective. Sci Total Environ 2014; 466-467:820-840. [PMID: 23994731 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2013.06.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 05/14/2013] [Revised: 06/26/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
During the 7th FW EU Programme, a large group of research institutions with a strong tradition in marine science designed PERSEUS, a policy-oriented, marine research project aimed at identifying human-derived pressures and their impacts in the Southern European Seas. PERSEUS is about gathering and analyzing the data on our marine ecosystems and developing recommendations to assist policy makers in the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). In its initial phase, the project focuses on the analysis and evaluation of human pressures in selected coastal areas across the Mediterranean and Black Seas. This paper reports on the results about the chemical pollution pressure in the Gulf of Naples, one of the sites selected for the analysis, and surrounding waters of the Southern Tyrrhenian Sea. Based on a systematic up-to-date literature review, the paper brings together for the first time the available information on the presence, severity and distribution of contaminants on the site. In spite of methodological and sampling heterogeneity among studies, this review compiles the data in a harmonized and effective way, so that the current status, knowledge gaps and research priorities can be established. Thus, the review wishes not only to provide a contribution to the scientific community, but also to help to extract recommendations for mitigating pollution sources and risks in the area of concern. A similar process of analysis may be carried out for other areas and pressures in order to facilitate policy making at the European level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Tornero
- Stazione Zoologica di Napoli, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy.
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50
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Böhnke-Henrichs A, Baulcomb C, Koss R, Hussain SS, de Groot RS. Typology and indicators of ecosystem services for marine spatial planning and management. J Environ Manage 2013; 130:135-145. [PMID: 24076513 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2013.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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: 10/19/2012] [Revised: 06/19/2013] [Accepted: 08/10/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The ecosystem services concept provides both an analytical and communicative tool to identify and quantify the link between human welfare and the environment, and thus to evaluate the ramifications of management interventions. Marine spatial planning (MSP) and Ecosystem-based Management (EBM) are a form of management intervention that has become increasingly popular and important globally. The ecosystem service concept is rarely applied in marine planning and management to date which we argue is due to the lack of a well-structured, systematic classification and assessment of marine ecosystem services. In this paper we not only develop such a typology but also provide guidance to select appropriate indicators for all relevant ecosystem services. We apply this marine-specific ecosystem service typology to MSP and EBM. We thus provide not only a novel theoretical construct but also show how the ecosystem services concept can be used in marine planning and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Böhnke-Henrichs
- Environmental Systems Analysis Group, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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