Biodiversity - Human impacts

Title

Climate Change, Keystone Predation, and Biodiversity Loss

Reference

Science 25 November 2011:
Vol. 334 no. 6059 pp. 1124-1127
DOI: 10.1126/science.1210199

Author(s)

Christopher D. G. Harley

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

Climate change can affect organisms both directly via physiological stress and indirectly via changing relationships among species. However, we do not fully understand how changing interspecific relationships contribute to community- and ecosystem-level responses to environmental forcing. I used experiments and spatial and temporal comparisons to demonstrate that warming substantially reduces predator-free space on rocky shores. The vertical extent of mussel beds decreased by 51% in 52 years, and reproductive populations of mussels disappeared at several sites. Prey species were able to occupy a hot, extralimital site if predation pressure was experimentally reduced, and local species richness more than doubled as a result. These results suggest that anthropogenic climate change can alter interspecific interactions and produce unexpected changes in species distributions, community structure, and diversity.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts

Keywords

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.sciencemag.org/content/334/6059/1124.abstract?sid=63f27134-5444-4a46-bd7e-9d3ad65597c6
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harley@zoology.ubc.ca

Title

Differences in the climatic debts of birds and butterflies at a continental scale

Reference

Nature Climate Change
doi:10.1038/nclimate1347

Author(s)

Study type

Peer Review Journal   

Abstract

Climate changes have profound effects on the distribution of numerous plant and animal species. However, whether and how different taxonomic groups are able to track climate changes at large spatial scales is still unclear. Here, we measure and compare the climatic debt accumulated by bird and butterfly communities at a European scale over two decades (1990–2008). We quantified the yearly change in community composition in response to climate change for 9,490 bird and 2,130 butterfly communities distributed across Europe. We show that changes in community composition are rapid but different between birds and butterflies and equivalent to a 37 and 114km northward shift in bird and butterfly communities, respectively. We further found that, during the same period, the northward shift in temperature in Europe was even faster, so that the climatic debts of birds and butterflies correspond to a 212 and 135km lag behind climate. Our results indicate both that birds and butterflies do not keep up with temperature increase and the accumulation of different climatic debts for these groups at national and continental scales.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts

Keywords

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.nature.com/nclimate/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nclimate1347.html
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vincent.devictor@univ-montp2.fr

Title

Eutrophication causes speciation reversal in whitefish adaptive radiations

Reference

Nature 482, 357–362
doi:10.1038/nature10824

Author(s)

P. Vonlanthen, D. Bittner, A. G. Hudson, K. A. Young, R. Müller, B. Lundsgaard-Hansen, D. Roy, S. Di Piazza, C. R. Largiader & O. Seehausen

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

Species diversity can be lost through two different but potentially interacting extinction processes: demographic decline and speciation reversal through introgressive hybridization. To investigate the relative contribution of these processes, we analysed historical and contemporary data of replicate whitefish radiations from 17 pre-alpine European lakes and reconstructed changes in genetic species differentiation through time using historical samples. Here we provide evidence that species diversity evolved in response to ecological opportunity, and that eutrophication, by diminishing this opportunity, has driven extinctions through speciation reversal and demographic decline. Across the radiations, the magnitude of eutrophication explains the pattern of species loss and levels of genetic and functional distinctiveness among remaining species. We argue that extinction by speciation reversal may be more widespread than currently appreciated. Preventing such extinctions will require that conservation efforts not only target existing species but identify and protect the ecological and evolutionary processes that generate and maintain species.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Water >> Water quality >> Water pollution and safety
Water >> Water and biodiversity

Keywords

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert 

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http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v482/n7385/full/nature10824.html
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ole.seehausen@eawag.ch

Title

Spatiotemporal Variation in Avian Migration Phenology: Citizen Science Reveals Effects of Climate Change

Reference

PLoS ONE, 2012; 7 (2): e31662
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0031662

Author(s)

Allen H. Hurlbert, Zhongfei Liang

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

A growing number of studies have documented shifts in avian migratory phenology in response to climate change, and yet there is a large amount of unexplained variation in the magnitude of those responses across species and geographic regions. We use a database of citizen science bird observations to explore spatiotemporal variation in mean arrival dates across an unprecedented geographic extent for 18 common species in North America over the past decade, relating arrival dates to mean minimum spring temperature. Across all species and geographic locations, species shifted arrival dates 0.8 days earlier for every °C of warming of spring temperature, but it was common for some species in some locations to shift as much as 3–6 days earlier per °C. Species that advanced arrival dates the earliest in response to warming were those that migrate more slowly, short distance migrants, and species with broader climatic niches. These three variables explained 63% of the interspecific variation in phenological response. We also identify a latitudinal gradient in the average strength of phenological response, with species shifting arrival earlier at southern latitudes than northern latitudes for the same degree of warming. This observation is consistent with the idea that species must be more phenologically sensitive in less seasonal environments to maintain the same degree of precision in phenological timing.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts
Environmental information services >> Environmental communication >> Stakeholder/public engagement

Keywords

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.plosone.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pone.0031662
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hurlbert@bio.unc.edu

Title

Noise pollution alters ecological services: enhanced pollination and disrupted seed dispersal

Reference

Proceedings of the Royal Society B
doi: 10.1098/rspb.2012.0230

Author(s)

Clinton D. Francis, Nathan J. Kleist, Catherine P. Ortega and Alexander Cruz

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

Noise pollution is a novel, widespread environmental force that has recently been shown to alter the behaviour and distribution of birds and other vertebrates, yet whether noise has cumulative, community-level consequences by changing critical ecological services is unknown. Herein, we examined the effects of noise pollution on pollination and seed dispersal and seedling establishment within a study system that isolated the effects of noise from confounding stimuli common to human-altered landscapes. Using observations, vegetation surveys and pollen transfer and seed removal experiments, we found that effects of noise pollution can reverberate through communities by disrupting or enhancing these ecological services. Specifically, noise pollution indirectly increased artificial flower pollination by hummingbirds, but altered the community of animals that prey upon and disperse Pinus edulis seeds, potentially explaining reduced P. edulis seedling recruitment in noisy areas. Despite evidence that some ecological services, such as pollination, may benefit indirectly owing to noise, declines in seedling recruitment for key-dominant species such as P. edulis may have dramatic long-term effects on ecosystem structure and diversity. Because the extent of noise pollution is growing, this study emphasizes that investigators should evaluate the ecological consequences of noise alongside other human-induced environmental changes that are reshaping human-altered landscapes worldwide.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Ecosystem services
Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Noise >> Health impacts

Keywords

anthropogenic noise birds ecological service human disturbance pollination seed dispersal

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/early/2012/03/15/rspb.2012.0230.abstract
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clinton.francis@nescent.org

Title

Conservation consequences of Chernobyl and other nuclear accidents

Reference

Biological Conservation
Volume 144, Issue 12, December 2011, Pages 2787–2798

Author(s)

A.P. Møller, T.A. Mousseau

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

The explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant on 26 April 1986 released vast amounts of radioactive material over an area of 200,000 km2 in eastern and central Europe, affecting all living organisms. The biological impacts including the conservation consequences of this event are still poorly known even 25 years after the disaster. Here we assess the effects of this environmental disaster for conservation by focusing on two connected questions addressing the short-term ecological and the long-term evolutionary consequences: First, we pose the question of whether rare species are more impacted by radiation than common species? Second, what are the conservation consequences of elevated mutation rates due to the mutagenic effects of radionuclides from Chernobyl? Furthermore, we assess the extent to which ecological and evolutionary aspects interact. We censused breeding birds across 731 census points in Ukraine and Belarus during 3 years to assess the relationship between abundance of different species and radiation. Most bird species avoided contaminated sites and individuals were concentrated in relatively uncontaminated sites. While common species were recorded at a wide range of radiation levels, rare species were restricted to the least contaminated sites and to sites with a high biodiversity. Thus, rare species were disproportionately impacted by the accident. Mutation rates of plants and animals have increased by up to a factor 20 due to release of radionuclides from Chernobyl. Given that each slightly deleterious mutation is expected to result in a selective genetic death, and that an average fruitfly under normal conditions may carry as many as 80 mutations, the number of mutations in animals and plants around Chernobyl and hence the number of selective deaths is bound to be much higher. There is empirical evidence for highly elevated mortality rates and dramatically increased rates of reproductive failure in contaminated areas, consistent with the expected high frequency of selective deaths due to mutations. The average slightly deleterious mutation is present for 33–167 generations in Drosophila, so if these estimates are qualitatively similar in other organisms, we can expect that mutants will disperse outside contaminated areas resulting in the spread of mutations well beyond the reach of contamination with radionuclides. Therefore, it should be possible to document the gradual spread of mutations from Chernobyl. We consider that the Chernobyl disaster and other nuclear releases may have significant consequences for population size and population viability of many species due to the large number of selective deaths. These effects remain to be investigated. Finally, comparative analyses of birds revealed that species with high mitochondrial DNA substitution rates had short dispersal distances, suggesting that mutations will spread relatively short distances when they are common, but will spread longer distances in species when they are rare.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Chemicals >> Impacts >> Ecosystem impacts

Keywords

Mutation; Mutational load; Radiation; Radioactivity; Selective mortality

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S000632071100317X
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anders.moller@u-psud.fr

Title

Landscape changes caused by high altitude ski-pistes affect bird species richness and distribution in the Alps

Reference

Biological Conservation
Volume 144, Issue 12, December 2011, Pages 2958–2967

Author(s)

Enrico Caprio, Dan E. Chamberlain, Marco Isaia, Antonio Rolando

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

There is a paucity of research on the wider landscape-level effects of ski-piste construction on alpine fauna. In this study, the response of alpine bird communities to the landscape changes induced by the construction of ski-pistes was investigated in the western Italian Alps. The aims were: (i) to test the hypothesis that ski-pistes have a detrimental effect on alpine grassland bird communities at a landscape-scale; and, (ii) to model local probability distributions of bird species according to different scenarios of ski-piste restoration and ski-piste proliferation above the treeline. Species richness and presence/absence data from point counts were analyzed in relation to GIS-derived landscape variables based on a 16 ha hexagon grid. Predictive variables were selected through the LASSO model selection procedure, and logistic regression was used to estimate the probability of occurrence of each species in each hexagon. Grassland species richness, and probability of occurrence of water pipit, wheatear and black redstart, significantly decreased with increasing extent of ski-piste edge. Length of ski-piste edge was in the set of best models considering a large range of habitat and landscape predictors, and are therefore clearly features that exert a strong negative effect on high alpine grassland bird communities. Predictions of species occurrence were made by applying the models to different scenarios of habitat change. These showed predicted detrimental impacts of a relatively small 10% increase in ski-piste extent, but also that grassland restoration on existing ski-pistes could result in significantly increased occurrence rates of alpine grassland species. This study suggests that ski-pistes are perceived by birds as detrimental features of the alpine landscape. To minimize their impact, new, environmentally–friendly ways of constructing pistes should be developed, which could include habitat restoration and management to obtain a level of grass cover such that edges of ski-pistes are no longer perceived by birds.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Habitat management

Keywords

Alpine bird communities; Landscape; Grasslands; High altitudes;
Ski-pistes; Habitat conservation

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert 

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320711003430
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enrico.caprio@unito.it

Title

Gardens benefit bees and enhance pollination in intensively managed farmland

Reference

Biological Conservation
Volume 144, Issue 11, November 2011, Pages 2602-2606

Author(s)

Ulrika Samnegård, Anna S. Persson, Henrik G. Smith

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The recent loss of pollinating insects and out-crossing plants in agricultural landscapes has raised concern for the maintenance of ecosystem services. Wild bees have been shown to benefit from garden habitats in urban and suburban areas. We investigated the effects of distance from garden habitats on wild bees and seed set of a native out-crossing plant Campanula persicifolia, in intensively managed agricultural landscapes in Southern Sweden. Bee abundance and species richness, as well as plant seed set, were higher closer to gardens (<15 m) than further away (>140 m). This highlights private gardens as a landscape wide resource for pollinators but also the lack of sufficient pollination of wild plants in contemporary agricultural landscapes.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Habitat management
Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Urban biodiversity

Keywords

Apoidea; Bombus; Campanula; Pollinator; Seed set; Agriculture; Landscape

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320711002618

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ulrika.samnegard@botan.su.se

Title

Food security and biodiversity: can we have both? An agroecological analysis

Reference

Agriculture and Human Values
Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2009
10.1007/s10460-009-9251-4

Author(s)

Michael Jahi Chappell and Liliana A. LaValle

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

We present an extensive literature review exploring the relationships between food insecurity and rapid biodiversity loss, and the competing methods proposed to address each of these serious problems. Given a large and growing human population, the persistence of widespread malnutrition, and the direct and significant threats the expanding agricultural system poses to biodiversity, the goals of providing universal food security and protecting biodiversity seem incompatible. Examining the literature shows that the current agricultural system already provides sufficient food on a worldwide basis, but in doing so methodically undermines the capacity of agroecosystems to preserve biodiversity. However, the available evidence emphasizes the interdependence of biodiversity and agriculture, and the important role each plays in the maintenance of the other. Thus, our review supports the claim that the solutions to the problems of widespread food insecurity and biodiversity loss need not be mutually exclusive, and that it may be possible to address both using appropriate alternative agricultural practices.

Policy theme(s)

Agriculture >> Agricultural management >> Agri-environment schemes
Agriculture >> Agricultural management >> Food security
Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts

Keywords

Agroecology, Alternative agriculture, Biodiversity,  Conservation , Food security,
Organic agriculture, Political ecology

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy Thematic Issue

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.springerlink.com/content/k082605n4r641231/fulltext.pdf

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mjc365@cornell.edu

Title

Environmental and anthropogenic determinants of vegetation distribution across Africa

Reference

Global Ecology and Biogeography
Volume 20, Issue 5, pages 661-674, September 2011
EU funded

Author(s)

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Aim: To assess the influence of natural environmental factors and historic and current anthropogenic processes as determinants of vegetation distributions at a continental scale.
Location: Africa.
Methods: Boosted regression trees (BRTs) were used to model the distribution of African vegetation types, represented by remote-sensing-based land-cover (LC) types, as a function of environmental factors. The contribution of each predictor variable to the best models and the accuracy of all models were assessed. Subsequently, to test for anthropogenic vegetation transformation, the relationship between the number of BRT false presences per grid cell and human impact was evaluated using hurdle models. Finally, the relative contributions of environmental, current and historic anthropogenic factors on vegetation distribution were assessed using regression-based variation partitioning.
Results: Deserts and evergreen forests were best predicted by environmental variables, though most other LC classes were also relatively well predicted by the environment. Annual precipitation emerged as the most important determinant of all LC classes. At low rainfall levels, LC classes with increasing woody cover replaced each other as rainfall increased, while LC class rainfall optima overlapped at high rainfall levels. With some exceptions, anthropogenic factors had a relatively small influence on the distribution of most LC classes. However, anthropogenic factors did have an influence on the inaccuracies in BRT models, and these models provided an indication of which LC classes have been most reduced by transformation.
Main conclusions: Here we show, for the first time, how environmental and anthropogenic factors influence vegetation distribution across Africa. LC classes at rainfall extremes are best predicted by the environment. In addition, we corroborate, also for the first time, the much-stated claim that rainfall is the most important variable for the distribution of African vegetation for all African vegetation types. Finally, we indicate how anthropogenic drivers affect LC distributions.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts

Keywords

Africa; climate; continental scale; distribution modelling; human influence; precipitation; vegetation distribution

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1466-8238.2011.00666.x/abstract
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michelle_greve@yahoo.com

Title

Shoot, shovel and shut up: cryptic poaching slows restoration of a large carnivore in Europe

Reference

Proc. R. Soc. B
rspb20111275

Author(s)

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Poaching is a widespread and well-appreciated problem for the conservation of many threatened species. Because poaching is illegal, there is strong incentive for poachers to conceal their activities, and consequently, little data on the effects of poaching on population dynamics are available. Quantifying poaching mortality should be a required knowledge when developing conservation plans for endangered species but is hampered by methodological challenges. We show that rigorous estimates of the effects of poaching relative to other sources of mortality can be obtained with a hierarchical state-space model combined with multiple sources of data. Using the Scandinavian wolf (Canis lupus) population as an illustrative example, we show that poaching accounted for approximately half of total mortality and more than two-thirds of total poaching remained undetected by conventional methods, a source of mortality we term as ‘cryptic poaching’. Our simulations suggest that without poaching during the past decade, the population would have been almost four times as large in 2009. Such a severe impact of poaching on population recovery may be widespread among large carnivores. We believe that conservation strategies for large carnivores considering only observed data may not be adequate and should be revised by including and quantifying cryptic poaching.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Endangered species       
Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts

Keywords

state-space models; poaching; wolf; Canis lupus; conservation

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/early/2011/08/08/rspb.2011.1275.full
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olof.liberg@slu.se

Title

Ongoing global biodiversity loss and the Reed to move beyond protected areas: a review of the technical and practical shortcomings of protected areas on land and sea

Reference

Mar Ecol Prog Ser 434: 251-266, 2011

Author(s)

Camilo Mora, Peter F. Sale

Study type

Peer review study

Abstract

A leading strategy in international efforts to reverse ongoing losses in biodiversity is the use of protected areas. We use a broad range of data and a review of the literature to show that the effectiveness of existing, and the current pace of the establishment of new, protected areas will not be able to overcome current trends of loss of marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Despite local successes of well-designed and well-managed protected areas proving effective in stemming biodiversity loss, there are significant shortcomings in the usual process of implementation of protected areas that preclude relying on them as a global solution to this problem. The shortcomings include technical problems associated with large gaps in the coverage of critical ecological processes related to
individual home ranges and propagule dispersal, and the overall failure of such areas to protect against the broad range of threats affecting ecosystems. Practical issues include budget constraints, conflicts with human development, and a growing human population that will increase not only the extent of anthropogenic stressors but the difficulty in successfully enforcing protected areas. While efforts towards improving and increasing the number and/or size of protected areas must continue, there is a clear and urgent need for the development of additional solutions for biodiversity loss, particularly
ones that stabilize the size of the world's human population and our ecological demands on biodiversity.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Protected areas/Natura 2000

Keywords

Land protected areas, Marine protected areas, Effectiveness, Conservation
Biodiversity loss, Human population, Human consumption

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v434/p251-266/
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moracamilo@hotmail.com

Title

Anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems in Antarctica

Reference

Author(s)

Richard B. Aronson, Sven Thatje, James B. McClintock, Kevin A. Hughes.

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Antarctica is the most isolated continent on Earth, but it has not escaped the negative impacts of human activity.The unique marine ecosystems of Antarctica and their endemic faunas are affected on local and regional scales by
overharvesting, pollution, and the introduction of alien species. Global climate change is also having deleterious impacts: rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification already threaten benthic and pelagic food webs. The Antarctic Treaty System can address local- to regional-scale impacts, but it does not have purview over the global problems that impinge on Antarctica, such as emissions of greenhouse gases. Failure to address human impacts simultaneously at all scales will lead to the degradation of Antarctic marine ecosystems and the homogenization of their composition, structure, and processes with marine ecosystems elsewhere.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

Antarctic Treaty, Antarctica, biodiversity, biological invasion, biotic homogenization, conservation, global warming

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05926.x/abstract
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raronson@fit.edu

Title

Climate change increases the risk of malaria in birds

Reference

Global Change Biology
Volume 17, Issue 5, pages 1751-1759, May 2011

Author(s)

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Malaria caused by Plasmodium parasites is one of the worst scourges of mankind and threatens wild animal populations. Therefore, identifying mechanisms that mediate the spread of the disease is crucial for both human health and conservation. Human-induced climate change has been hypothesized to alter the geographic distribution of malaria pathogens. As the earth warms, arthropod vectors may display a general range expansion or may enjoy longer breeding season, both of which can enhance parasite transmission. Moreover, Plasmodium species may directly benefit for elevating temperatures, which provide stimulating conditions for parasite reproduction. To test for the link between climate change and malaria prevalence on a global scale for the first time, I used long-term records on avian malaria, which is a key model for studying the dynamics of naturally occurring malarial infections. Following the variation in parasite prevalence in more than 3000 bird species over seven decades, I show that the infection rate by Plasmodium is strongly associated with temperature anomalies and has been augmented with accelerating tendency during the last 20 years. The impact of climate change on malaria prevalence varies across continents, with the strongest effects found for Europe and Africa. Migration habit did not predict susceptibility to the escalating parasite pressure by Plasmodium. Consequently, wild birds are at an increasing risk of malaria infection due to recent climate change, which can endanger both naive bird populations and domesticated animals. The prevailing avian example may provide useful lessons for understanding the effect of climate change on malaria in humans

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts

Keywords

Anopheles, Culex, global warming, parasite transmission, risk management, vector-borne infectious diseases

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2652.2010.02346.x/full
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laszlo.garamszegi@ebd.csic.es

Title

Expansion of mass-flowering crops leads to transient pollinator dilution and reduced wild plant pollination

Reference

Royal Society Publishing

Author(s)

Andrea Holzschuh, Carsten F. Dormann, Teja Tscharntke and Ingolf Steffan-Dewenter

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Agricultural land use results in direct biodiversity decline through loss of natural habitat, but may also cause indirect cross-habitat effects on conservation areas. We conducted three landscape-scale field studies on 67 sites to test the hypothesis that mass flowering of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) results in a transient dilution of bees in crop fields, and in increased competition between crop plants and grassland plants for pollinators. Abundances of bumble-bees, which are the main pollinators of the grassland plant Primula veris, but also pollinate oilseed rape (OSR), decreased with increasing amount of OSR. This landscape-scale dilution affected bumble-bee abundances strongly in OSR fields and marginally in grasslands, where bumble-bee abundances were generally low at the time of Primula flowering. Seed set of Primula veris, which flowers during OSR bloom, was reduced by 20 per cent when the amount of OSR within 1 km radius increased from 0 to 15 per cent. Hence, the current expansion of bee-attractive biofuel crops results in transient dilution of crop pollinators, which means an increased competition for pollinators between crops and wild plants. In conclusion, mass-flowering crops potentially threaten fitness of concurrently flowering wild plants in conservation areas, despite the fact that, in the long run, mass-flowering crops can enhance abundances of generalist pollinators and their pollination service.

Policy theme(s)

Agriculture >> Agricultural management >> Agri-environment schemes
Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts

Keywords

N/A

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/early/2011/04/01/rspb.2011.0268.short
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andrea.holzschuh@uni-wuerzburg.de

Title

The Consequences of Feminization in Breeding Groups of Wild Fish

Reference

Environmental Health Perspectives

Author(s)

Catherine A. Harris, Patrick B. Hamilton, Tamsin J. Runnalls, Veronica Vinciotti, Alan Henshaw, Dave Hodgson, Tobias S. Coe, Susan Jobling, Charles R. Tyler, John P. Sumpter

Study type

Peer review journal

Abstract

Background: The feminization of nature by endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is a key environmental issue affecting both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. A crucial and as yet unanswered question is whether EDCs have adverse impacts on the sustainability of wildlife populations. There is widespread concern that intersex fish are reproductively compromised, with potential population-level consequences. However, to date, only in vitro sperm quality data are available in support of this hypothesis.
Objective: The aim of this study was to examine whether wild endocrine-disrupted fish can compete successfully in a realistic breeding scenario.
Methods: In two competitive breeding experiments using wild roach (Rutilus rutilus), we used DNA microsatellites to assign parentage and thus determine reproductive success of the adults.
Results: In both studies, the majority of intersex fish were able to breed, albeit with varying degrees of success. In the first study, where most intersex fish were only mildly feminized, body length was the only factor correlated with reproductive success. In the second study, which included a higher number of more severely intersex fish, reproductive performance was negatively correlated with severity of intersex. The intersex condition reduced reproductive performance by up to 76% for the most feminized individuals in this study, demonstrating a significant adverse effect of intersex on reproductive performance.
Conclusion: Feminization of male fish is likely to be an important determinant of reproductive performance in rivers where there is a high prevalence of moderately to severely feminized males.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Chemicals >> Impacts >> Ecosystem impacts

Keywords

DNA microsatellites, ecotoxicology, genetic diversity, intersex, reproductive success, roach, secondary sexual characteristics, size, sperm viability.

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

View this study at:

http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/fetchArticle.action?articleURI=info%3Adoi%2F10.1289%2Fehp.1002555
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catherine.harris@brunel.ac.uk

Title

PAH body burden and biomarker responses in mussels (Mytilus edulis) exposed to produced water from a North Sea oil field: Laboratory and field assessments

Reference

Marine Pollution Bulletin
Volume 62, Issue 7, July 2011, Pages 1498-1505

Author(s)

Rolf C. Sundt, Daniela M. Pampanin, Merete Grung, Janina Baršiene and Anders Ruus

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

In order to study the impact of produced water (PW) from a North Sea oil field on blue mussels (Mytilus edulis), chemical and biological markers were selected. A laboratory exposure (0.125%, 0.25% and 0.5% of PW) and a field study (6 stations 0.2-2 km from a PW discharge point) were conducted. In the laboratory study, PAH bioaccumulation increased in mussel soft tissue even at the lowest exposure dose. Micronuclei frequency demonstrated a dose-response pattern, whereas lysosomal membrane stability showed tendency towards a dose–response pattern. The same markers were assessed in the field study, biomarker analyses were consistent with the contamination level, as evaluated by mussel polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons body burden. Overall, obtained results confirmed the value of an ecotoxicological approach for a scientifically sound characterisation of biological effects induced by offshore oilfield operational discharges.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution
Risk assessment >> Hazards >> Hazardous substances

Keywords

Produced water, Mussel, Lysosomal membrane stability, Micronuclei, Bioaccumulation, Monitoring

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Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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rolf.sundt@iris.no

Title

How to assess exposure of aquatic organisms to manufactured nanoparticles?

Reference

Environment International
Volume 37, Issue 6, August 2011, Pages 1068-1077

Author(s)

Joris T.K. Quik, Jan Arie Vonk, Steffen Foss Hansen, Anders Baun and Dik Van De Meent

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Ecological risk of chemicals is measured by the quotient of predicted no-effect concentrations and predicted exposure concentrations, which are hard to assess for manufactured nanomaterials (NMs). This paper proposes modifications to currently used models, in order to make them suitable for estimating exposure concentrations of NMs in the aquatic environment. We have evaluated the adequacy of the current guidance documents for use with NMs and conclude that nano-specific fate processes, such as sedimentation and dissolution need to be incorporated. We have reviewed the literature on sedimentation and dissolution of NMs in environmentally relevant systems. We deduce that the overall kinetics of water–sediment transport of NMs should be close to first order. The lack of data on dissolution of NMs under environmentally realistic conditions calls for a pragmatic decision on which rates to be used in modeling. We find that first order removal kinetics for dissolution seems adequate. Based on limited data from literature, probable removal rates range from 0 to 10-4 s-1 for sedimentation, and from 0 to 10-5 s-1 for dissolution. Further experimental data at environmentally relevant conditions for sedimentation and dissolution of NMs is needed.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Chemicals >> Pollutants/hazardous substances >> Nanomaterials
Risk assessment >> Hazards >> Hazardous substances

Keywords

Nanomaterials, Sedimentation, Dissolution, Exposure assessment, Aquatic environment

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Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412011000304
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joris.quik@rivm.nl

Title

The potential impacts of insecticides on the life-history traits of bees and the consequences for pollination

Reference

Basic and Applied Ecology
Volume 12, Issue 4, June 2011, Pages 321-331

Author(s)

Claire Brittain and Simon G. Potts

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Maintaining the relationships between plants and pollinators is vital to ecosystem stability. Insecticides may disturb these interactions with poorly understood consequences for pollination. Community level research is essential, if we are to understand the wider effects of insecticides on a variety of pollinating taxa and the impacts on the plants they pollinate. In this article we discuss the potential effects of both the lethal and sub-lethal impacts of insecticide use in agro-ecosystems on pollination services by bees. In particular, we consider how particular life-history traits of pollinators, such as sociality and floral specialisation may be differentially affected by insecticides. We discuss how this might translate through to pollination services. We propose that a trait-based approach can give insight into the potential impacts of insecticides on plant–pollinator communities.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Biodiversity >> Ecosystem services
Chemicals >> Pollutants/hazardous substances >> Pesticides
Chemicals >> Impacts >> Ecosystem impacts

Keywords

Biodiversity, Disturbance, Ecosystem service, Environmental chemicals, Pesticide pressure, Pollinator

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1439179110001623
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claire.brittain@uni.leuphana.de

Title

Impact of cork extraction on birds: Relevance for conservation of Mediterranean biodiversity

Reference

Biological Conservation
Volume 144, Issue 5, May 2011, Pages 1655-1662

Author(s)

Ana I. Leal, Ricardo A. Correia, José P. Granadeiro and Jorge M. Palmeirim

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Montados are Mediterranean agro-forestry-pastoral systems recognized as an excellent example of balance between socio-economic development and biodiversity conservation. The economic viability of montados dominated by cork oak Quercus suber depends on the extraction of cork (the bark of trees), usually in 9 year cycles, which is mostly used for production of bottle stoppers. This study evaluated the impact of cork extraction on biodiversity, using birds as indicators.
Comparing bird assemblages of areas with recently extracted cork and older cork revealed that only two species of bark gleaners and two of bark-foliage gleaners had lower densities in recently debarked areas. Arthropod sampling revealed that, in the first years after cork extraction, the bark has less prey, suggesting that the reduction in bark gleaners densities is a result of the decreased food availability. Focal observations confirmed that the affected species were those that foraged mostly on cork. However, our data demonstrated that bird richness and the density of the majority of species were unaffected by debarking, and that at the landscape level even bark gleaners had potentially stable populations.
Pressure from the synthetic bottle stopper industry threatens to render montados economically unviable, and consequently be replaced by land uses much less valuable for biodiversity. Showing that cork extraction is compatible with the maintenance of the great ornithological value of montados, our results confirm that it is an economic activity that should be promoted for the benefit of biodiversity.

Policy theme(s)

Agriculture >> Agricultural management >> Agri-environment schemes
Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Forests >> Forest protection >> Forest biodiversity
Forests >> Forest services >> Forest industries/products

Keywords

Cork oak, Cork extraction, Birds, Montados management, Agro-forestry-pastoral system

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320711000826
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aiencarnacao@fc.ul.pt

Title

Global seabird bycatch in longline fisheries

Reference

Endang Species Res 14:91-106

Author(s)

Orea R. J. Anderson, Cleo J. Small, John P. Croxall, Euan K. Dunn, Benedict J. Sullivan, Oliver Yates, Andrew Black

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Bycatch in longline fisheries is believed to govern the adverse conservation status of many seabird species, but no comprehensive global assessment has been undertaken. We reviewed the extent of seabird bycatch in all longline fisheries for which data are available. Despite the many inadequacies and assumptions contained therein, we estimated that at least 160000 (and potentially in excess of 320000) seabirds are killed annually. Most frequently caught are albatrosses, petrels and shearwaters, with current levels of mortality liable to be unsustainable for some species and populations. Where realistic comparisons can be made, with data from the 1990s, there is evidence of substantially reduced bycatch in some key fisheries. Reductions stem from decreased fishing effort (especially in illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in the Southern Ocean), and greater and more effective use of technical mitigation measures, notably in demersal fisheries. However, bycatch problems in other fisheries have also emerged. Current concerns include those with previously unidentified bycatch problems (e.g. Spanish Gran Sol demersal fleet) and those where bycatch was identified, but where persistent data gaps prevented adequate assessments of the scale of the impact (e.g. Nordic demersal fisheries). Future assessments will only achieve greater precision when minimum standards of data collection, reporting and analysis are implemented by longline fishing fleets and the relevant regional fishery management organisations. Those fisheries in which bycatch has been substantially reduced demonstrate that the problem of seabird bycatch could be reduced to negligible proportions by enforced implementation of appropriate best-practice mitigation devices and techniques.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Fisheries

Keywords

Bycatch,  Seabirds, Albatrosses, Global, Threats, Marine conservation

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v14/n2/p91-106/
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orea.anderson@rspb.org.uk

Title

Road-kills affect avian population quality

Reference

Biological Conservation
Volume 144, Issue 3, March 2011, Pages 1036-1039

Author(s)

Malgorzata Bujoczek, Michal Ciach and Reuven Yosef

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Owing to the extensive development of road networks, millions of animals are killed annually. This impact on the natural environment has been questioned: is there a selection of victims in the car collisions? and do road-kills, as do predators, influence a population by eliminating individuals in poor condition? We compared road-killed individuals to those killed by predators in SE Poland in three bird species: Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella, Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica, and Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs. We applied ptilochronology, in which the width of feather growth bars represents an individual's relative nutritional condition. Our results show that the analyzed species were in significantly better body condition than those killed by raptors. Our study does not concur with previous studies which concluded that weaker individuals are more vulnerable on the road. Raptors select prey in poor condition, but road-killed individuals are in significantly better condition, so apparently road-kill results in the random elimination of healthy individuals. The conservation implications of this study are far-reaching; future road construction and safety regulations must take wildlife into consideration. If these human-created habitats are killing a significant proportion of the healthier part of natural populations in a non-selective manner, this could result in situations where fragmented populations could be driven to a critical stage, and/or the situation of declining or endangered populations worsened further.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity>>Threats to biodiversity>>Human impacts

Keywords

Prey-selection, Ptilochronology, Road-kills, Yellowhammer, Barn Swallow, Chaffinch

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320710005318
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bujoczek.m@gmail.com

Title

Consequences of climate change on the tree of life in Europe

Reference

Nature  Vol: 470 February 2011
doi:10.1038/nature09705

Author(s)

Wilfried Thuiller, Sébastien Lavergne, Cristina Roquet, Isabelle Boulangeat, Bruno Lafourcade & Miguel. B. Araujo

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Many species are projected to become vulnerable to twenty-first-century climate changes, with consequent effects on the tree of life. If losses were not randomly distributed across the tree of life, climate change could lead to a disproportionate loss of evolutionary history. Here we estimate the consequences of climate change on the phylogenetic diversities of plant, bird and mammal assemblages across Europe. Using a consensus across ensembles of forecasts for 2020, 2050 and 2080 and high-resolution phylogenetic trees, we show that species vulnerability to climate change clusters weakly across phylogenies. Such phylogenetic signal in species vulnerabilities does not lead to higher loss of evolutionary history than expected with a model of random extinctions. This is because vulnerable species have neither fewer nor closer relatives than the remaining clades. Reductions in phylogenetic diversity will be greater in southern Europe, and gains are expected in regions of high latitude or altitude. However, losses will not be offset by gains and the tree of life faces a trend towards homogenization across the continent.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts

Keywords

N/A

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v470/n7335/full/nature09705.html
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wilfried.thuiller@ujf-grenoble.fr

Title

Evaluating citizen-based presence data for bird monitoring

Reference

Biological Conservation
Volume 144, Issue 2, February 2011, Pages 804-810

Author(s)

Tord Snäll, Oskar Kindvall, Johan Nilsson and Tomas Pärt

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Species monitoring is one key approach to assess human impact on nature. Four main approaches have been applied in bird monitoring: comparing distribution atlases from different times, repeated monitoring programmes, checklist programmes, and species-specific surveys. We evaluate the potential of another type of data for monitoring: presence-only data on species sightings reported voluntarily by the public to open-access internet platforms, here the Species Gateway (SG) in Sweden. We regressed data on the 242 bird species observed 2001-2009 in the Swedish Bird Survey (SBS) against the corresponding SG data. We also investigated the relationship for groups of species utilizing different habitats and displaying a significant inter-annual variation, a coefficient of variation >0.3 according to the SBS. We found support for a positive relationship in inter-annual variation in population level between the two datasets. However, the species subsets displayed variation from positive to negative correlations. Restricting the analysis to species with high inter-annual variation increased the positive correlation between the data sets. The reason for the mismatch between the two datasets may be explained by temporal changes in the willingness to report certain common species to the SG. Another reason may be an imbalance in the coverage of common versus uncommon species among the two datasets. The use of voluntary citizen-based data requires great care and good knowledge of the limitation of the data. If these requirements are fulfilled, we suggest that they may be a complement to standardised programmes, especially for assessing uncommon species of conservation concern.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Environmental information services >> Environmental communication >> Stakeholder/public engagement

Keywords

Presence-only, GBIF, Bayesian hierarchical model, Bird, Citizen science

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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 N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320710004805
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tord.snall@artdata.slu.se

Title

Disentangling the effects of fertilisers and pesticides on winter stubble use by farmland birds

Reference

Basic and Applied Ecology, Volume 12, Issue 1,
February 2011, Pages 80-88

Author(s)

Ailsa J. McKenzie, Juliet A. Vickery, Carlo Leifert, Peter Shotton and Mark J. Whittingham

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Cereal stubbles are a preferred foraging habitat for overwintering granivorous farmland bird species. Levels of this habitat have declined in recent decades across much of western Europe with increasing agricultural intensification. Organic farms typically hold more stubble fields than conventional farms and thus may provide important refuges for wintering birds. However, while organic stubble fields often contain higher food densities than conventional stubble fields, the more complex vegetation structure associated with organic farming may decrease use by birds. Bird use, vegetation characteristics and seed densities were measured on stubble plots managed under four strategies (Organic [organic fertiliser only and no chemical pesticides], Conventional [inorganic fertiliser and chemical pesticides], NOFERT [organic fertiliser only and chemical pesticides) and NOPEST [inorganic fertiliser and no chemical pesticides]). Skylarks foraged most frequently on stubbles which received no pesticide applications which also had the highest weed seed densities. Plots receiving either inorganic or organic fertiliser applications did not differ in terms of use by skylarks, weed seed density or diversity, or vegetation structure. Plot use by yellowhammers was not significantly related to pesticide or fertiliser applications. Possible reasons for this are discussed. Results suggest that the main benefit of organic stubble fields for birds is via reduced pesticide inputs. Use of inorganic fertilisers is also beneficial for birds via increased weed seed densities, but to a lesser extent.

Policy theme(s)

Agriculture >> Agricultural management >> Agri-environment schemes
Agriculture >> Agricultural management >> Organic farming
Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts

Keywords

Fertilisers; Fertilizers; Herbicides; Organic; Birds; Foraging; Seed diversity; Farmland

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1439179110001349
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a.j.mckenzie@ncl.ac.uk

Title

Winter tourism increases stress hormone levels in the Capercaillie Tetrao Urogallus

Reference

Ibis (2011), 153, 122-133

Author(s)

Dominik Thiel, Susanne Jenni-Eiermann, Rupert Palme, Lukas Jenni

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Montane and alpine habitats in Europe remained relatively undisturbed until the beginning of the last century. Today, outdoor recreation activities are a major economic factor in alpine regions. Many tourism areas coincide with winter habitats of shy and endangered species. The Western Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus has suffered from rapid population declines during recent decades over much of its range. In central Europe, many Capercaillie are exposed to intensive human recreation activities in their habitats, which may contribute to this decline. However, little is known about their susceptibility to human recreation activities. This study assessed whether human recreation in winter evokes physiological stress responses in several populations of Capercaillie. During two winters, we sampled 1130 Capercaillie droppings in Germany and Switzerland of populations at various distances from winter recreation activities and measured concentrations of faecal corticosterone metabolites. Capercaillie in relatively dense and homogeneous mountain forests dominated by Norway Spruce Picea abies showed markedly increased stress hormone levels closer to locations with winter recreation activity. However, this physiological response to human recreation was not detectable in forests dominated by various pine species and a heterogeneous structure. Capercaillie may be particularly sensitive to recreation because any factor affecting their fine-tuned physiological and behavioural adaptations to survive under harsh winter conditions may lead to harmful fitness costs.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts

Keywords

corticosterone, grouse, human disturbance, recreation, stress ecology.

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1474-919X.2010.01083.x/full
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dominik.thiel@ag.ch

Title

Nano-TiO2 enhances the toxicity of copper in natural water to Daphnia magna

Reference

Environmental Pollution
Volume 159, Issue 3, March 2011, Pages 729-734

Author(s)

Wenhong Fan, Minming Cui, Hong Liu, Chuan Wang, Zhiwei Shi, Cheng Tan and Xiuping Yang

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The acute toxicity of engineered nanoparticles (NPs) in aquatic environments at high concentrations has been well-established. This study demonstrates that, at a concentration generally considered to be safe in the environment, nano-TiO2 remarkably enhanced the toxicity of copper to Daphnia magna by increasing the copper bioaccumulation. Specifically, at 2 mg L_1 nano-TiO2, the (LC50) of Cu2þ concentration observed to kill half the population, decreased from 111 mg L_1 to 42 mg L_1. Correspondingly, the level of metallothionein decreased from 135 mg g_1 wet weight to 99 mg g_1 wet weight at a Cu2þ level of 100 mg L_1. The copper was found to be adsorbed onto the nano-TiO2, and ingested and accumulated in the animals, thereby causing toxic injury. The nano-TiO2 may compete for free copper ions with sulfhydryl groups, causing the inhibition of the detoxification by metallothioneins.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Chemicals >> Pollutants/hazardous substances >> Nanomaterials
Water >> Water and biodiversity

Keywords

Nano-TiO2, Toxicity, Copper, Daphnia magna, Metallothionein

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749110005415
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fanwh@buaa.edu.cn

Title

Reference

Conservation Biology
Volume 24, Issue 6, pages 1644-1653, December 2010

Author(s)

GÁBOR HORVÁTH, et al

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Human-made objects (e.g., buildings with glass surfaces) can reflect horizontally polarized light so strongly that they appear to aquatic insects to be bodies of water. Insects that lay eggs in water are especially attracted to such structures because these insects use horizontal polarization of light off bodies of water to find egg-laying sites. Thus, these sources of polarized light can become ecological traps associated with reproductive failure and mortality in organisms that are attracted to them and by extension with rapid population declines or collapse. Solar panels are a new source of polarized light pollution. Using imaging polarimetry, we measured the reflection–polarization characteristics of different solar panels and in multiple-choice experiments in the field we tested their attractiveness to mayflies, caddis flies, dolichopodids, and tabanids. At the Brewster angle, solar panels polarized reflected light almost completely (degree of polarization d ≈100%) and substantially exceeded typical polarization values for water (d ≈30-70%). Mayflies (Ephemeroptera), stoneflies (Trichoptera), dolichopodid dipterans, and tabanid flies (Tabanidae) were the most attracted to solar panels and exhibited oviposition behavior above solar panels more often than above surfaces with lower degrees of polarization (including water), but in general they avoided solar cells with nonpolarizing white borders and white grates. The highly and horizontally polarizing surfaces that had nonpolarizing, white cell borders were 10- to 26-fold less attractive to insects than the same panels without white partitions. Although solar panels can act as ecological traps, fragmenting their solar-active area does lessen their attractiveness to polarotactic insects. The design of solar panels and collectors and their placement relative to aquatic habitats will likely affect populations of aquatic insects that use polarized light as a behavioral cue.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Habitat management
Biodiversity >> Threats to biodiversity >> Human impacts
Climate change and energy >> Climate change mitigation >> Renewable energy

Keywords

evolutionary trap, habitat selection, maladaptation, polarized light pollution

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2010.01518.x/abstract
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Contact the study author at:

roberba1@msu.edu