Marine ecosystems - Biodiversity

Title

Reference

The ISME Journal (2012) 6, 451–460; doi:10.1038/ismej.2011.91;
published online 4 August 2011

Author(s)

Zhenmei Lu , Ye Deng, Joy D Van Nostrand, Zhili He, James Voordeckers, Aifen Zhou, Yong-Jin Lee, Olivia U Mason, Eric A Dubinsky, Krystle L Chavarria, Lauren M Tom, Julian L Fortney, Regina Lamendella, Janet K Jansson, Patrik D'haeseleer, Terry C Hazen and Jizhong Zhou

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is the deepest and largest offshore spill in the United State history and its impacts on marine ecosystems are largely unknown. Here, we showed that the microbial community functional composition and structure were dramatically altered in a deep-sea oil plume resulting from the spill. A variety of metabolic genes involved in both aerobic and anaerobic hydrocarbon degradation were highly enriched in the plume compared with outside the plume, indicating a great potential for intrinsic bioremediation or natural attenuation in the deep sea. Various other microbial functional genes that are relevant to carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur and iron cycling, metal resistance and bacteriophage replication were also enriched in the plume. Together, these results suggest that the indigenous marine microbial communities could have a significant role in biodegradation of oil spills in deep-sea environments.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution
Risk assessment >> Hazards >> Industrial accidents

Keywords

oil spill; deep-sea plume; microbial community; metagenomics; functional gene arrays; GeoChip

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Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.nature.com/ismej/journal/v6/n2/full/ismej201191a.html
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jzhou@ou.edu

Title

Disturbance and Recovery of Salt Marsh Arthropod Communities following BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

Reference

PLoS ONE, 2012; 7 (3): e32735
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032735

Author(s)

Brittany D. McCall, Steven C. Pennings

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

Oil spills represent a major environmental threat to coastal wetlands, which provide a variety of critical ecosystem services to humanity. The U.S. Gulf of Mexico is a hub of oil and gas exploration activities that historically have impacted intertidal habitats such as salt marsh. Following the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill, we sampled the terrestrial arthropod community and marine invertebrates found in stands of Spartina alterniflora, the most abundant plant in coastal salt marshes. Sampling occurred in 2010 as oil was washing ashore and a year later in 2011. In 2010, intertidal crabs and terrestrial arthropods (insects and spiders) were suppressed by oil exposure even in seemingly unaffected stands of plants; however, Littoraria snails were unaffected. One year later, crab and arthropods had largely recovered. Our work is the first attempt that we know of assessing vulnerability of the salt marsh arthropod community to oil exposure, and it suggests that arthropods are both quite vulnerable to oil exposure and quite resilient, able to recover from exposure within a year if host plants remain healthy.

Policy theme(s)

Risk assessment >> Hazards >> Industrial accidents
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution

Keywords

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.plosone.org/article/info:doi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0032735

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spennings@uh.edu

Title

Reference

Author(s)

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

Maritime spatial planning (MSP) is increasingly being introduced as a tool to improve decision-making for those maritime areas where competing human activities occur and to manage the effects on the marine environment. According to the European Commission's Roadmap for Maritime Spatial Planning: Achieving Common Principles in the EU of November 2008, for MSP to be effective, it should be established by setting up a legally binding framework. Recently, several European Union (EU) Member States have developed systems to establish a firm national legal basis to engage in MSP in all maritime waters within their national jurisdiction. However, their starting points are different; whereas, the Netherlands and Germany extended their existing territorial spatial planning framework seaward, the UK developed an entire new planning system specific for its maritime waters. This article aims to explore how the EU Member States mentioned above have embedded their maritime spatial planning activities in their national legal system and to what extent they are bound by global and EU-legislation when engaging in MSP. Special attention is paid to issues of cross-sectoral coordination and cross-border consultation with neighbouring States.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Coastal management

Keywords

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/1523908X.2012.662381
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P.Drankier@uu.nl

Title

Temperature-driven coral decline: the role of marine protected areas.

Reference

Global Change Biology,
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2486.2012.02658.x

Author(s)

Selig, E.R., Casey, K.S., Bruno, J.F., 2012.

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

Warming ocean temperatures are considered to be an important cause of the degradation of the world's coral reefs. Marine protected areas (MPAs) have been proposed as one tool to increase coral reef ecosystem resistance and resilience (i.e. recovery) to the negative effects of climate change, yet few studies have evaluated their efficacy in achieving these goals. We used a high resolution 4 km global temperature anomaly database from 1985-2005 and 8040 live coral cover surveys on protected and unprotected reefs to determine whether MPAs have been effective in mitigating temperature-driven coral loss. Generally, protection in MPAs did not reduce the effect of warm temperature anomalies on coral cover declines. Shortcomings in MPA design, including size and placement, may have contributed to the lack of a MPA effect. Empirical studies suggest that corals that have been previously exposed to moderate levels of thermal stress have greater adaptive capacity and resistance to future thermal stress events. Existing MPAs protect relatively fewer reefs with moderate anomaly frequencies, potentially reducing their effectiveness. However, our results also suggest that the benefits from MPAs may not be great enough to offset the magnitude of losses from acute thermal stress events. Although MPAs are important conservation tools, their limitations in mitigating coral loss from acute thermal stress events suggests that they need to be complemented with policies aimed at reducing the activities responsible for climate change.

Policy theme(s)

Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Protected areas/Natura 2000

Keywords

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2486.2012.02658.x/abstract
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e.selig@conservation.org

Title

Long-term effects of ocean warming on the prokaryotic community: evidence from the vibrios

Reference

The ISME Journal (2012) 6, 21–30; doi:10.1038/ismej.2011.89; published online 14 July 2011

Author(s)

Luigi Vezzulli, Ingrid Brettar, Elisabetta Pezzati, Philip C Reid, Rita R Colwell, Manfred G Höfle and Carla Pruzzo

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The long-term effects of ocean warming on prokaryotic communities are unknown because of lack of historical data. We overcame this gap by applying a retrospective molecular analysis to the bacterial community on formalin-fixed samples from the historical Continuous Plankton Recorder archive, which is one of the longest and most geographically extensive collections of marine biological samples in the world. We showed that during the last half century, ubiquitous marine bacteria of the Vibrio genus, including Vibrio cholerae, increased in dominance within the plankton-associated bacterial community of the North Sea, where an unprecedented increase in bathing infections related to these bacteria was recently reported. Among environmental variables, increased sea surface temperature explained 45% of the variance in Vibrio data, supporting the view that ocean warming is favouring the spread of vibrios and may be the cause of the globally increasing trend in their associated diseases.

Policy theme(s)

Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Social and health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Water safety
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

climate change; North Sea; vibrios; Vibrio cholerae; plankton

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.nature.com/ismej/journal/v6/n1/full/ismej201189a.html
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luigi.vezzulli@unige.it

Title

Homogenization patterns of the world's freshwater fish faunas

Reference

PNAS October 24, 2011
doi: 10.1073/pnas.1107614108

Author(s)

Sébastien Villégera, Simon Blancheta, Olivier BeauchardThierry Oberdorff, and Sébastien Brosse

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The world is currently undergoing an unprecedented decline in biodiversity, which is mainly attributable to human activities. For instance, nonnative species introduction, combined with the extirpation of native species, affects biodiversity patterns, notably by increasing the similarity among species assemblages. This biodiversity change, called taxonomic homogenization, has rarely been assessed at the world scale. Here, we fill this gap by assessing the current homogenization status of one of the most diverse vertebrate groups (i.e., freshwater fishes) at global and regional scales. We demonstrate that current homogenization of the freshwater fish faunas is still low at the world scale (0.5%) but reaches substantial levels (up to 10%) in some highly invaded river basins from the Nearctic and Palearctic realms. In these realms experiencing high changes, nonnative species introductions rather than native species extirpations drive taxonomic homogenization. Our results suggest that the "Homogocene era" is not yet the case for freshwater fish fauna at the worldwide scale. However, the distressingly high level of homogenization noted for some biogeographical realms stresses the need for further understanding of the ecological consequences of homogenization processes.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

biodiversity, conservation, nonnative species, uniqueness, differentiation

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2011/10/18/1107614108.abstract
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villager@cict.fr

Title

Ecologically Informed Engineering Reduces Loss of Intertidal Biodiversity on Artificial Shorelines

Reference

Environ. Sci. Technol., 2011, 45 (19), pp 8204–8207
DOI: 10.1021/es201924b

Author(s)

Mark A. Browne and M. Gee Chapman

Study type

Peer Review Journal 

Abstract

Worldwide responses to urbanization, expanding populations and climatic change mean biodiverse habitats are replaced with expensive, but necessary infrastructure. Coastal cities support vast expanses of buildings and roads along the coast or on "reclaimed" land, leading to "armouring" of shorelines with walls, revetments and offshore structures to reduce erosion and flooding. Currently infrastructure is designed to meet engineering and financial criteria, without considering its value as habitat, despite artificial shorelines causing loss of intertidal species and altering ecological natural processes that sustain natural biodiversity. Most research on ameliorating these impacts focus on soft-sediment habitats and larger flora (e.g., restoring marshes, encouraging plants to grow on walls). In response to needs for greater collaboration between ecologists and engineers to create infrastructure to better support biodiversity, we show how such collaborations lead to small-scale and inexpensive ecologically informed engineering which reduces loss of species of algae and animals from rocky shores replaced by walls. Adding experimental novel habitats to walls mimicking rock-pools (e.g., cavities, attaching flowerpots) increased numbers of species by 110% within months, in particular mobile animals most affected by replacing natural shores with walls. These advances provide new insights about melding engineering and ecological knowledge to sustain biodiversity in cities.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Coastal management

Keywords

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/es201924b
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Mark.browne@ucd.ie

Title

Recovery of marine animal populations and ecosystems

Reference

Trends in Ecology & Evolution
doi:10.1016/j.tree.2011.07.008 
EU funded

Author(s)

Heike K. Lotze, Marta Coll, Anna M. Magera, Christine Ward-Paige, Laura Airoldi

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Many marine populations and ecosystems have experienced strong historical depletions, yet reports of recoveries are increasing. Here, we review the growing research on marine recoveries to reveal how common recovery is, its magnitude, timescale and major drivers. Overall, 10–50% of depleted populations and ecosystems show some recovery, but rarely to former levels of abundance. In addition, recovery can take many decades for long-lived species and complex ecosystems. Major drivers of recovery include the reduction of human impacts, especially exploitation, habitat loss and pollution, combined with favorable life-history and environmental conditions. Awareness, legal protection and enforcement of management plans are also crucial. Learning from historical recovery successes and failures is essential for implementing realistic conservation goals and promising management strategies.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169534711002060
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hlotze@dal.ca

Title

The pharmaceutical value of marine biodiversity for anti-cancer drug discovery

Reference

Ecological Economics
Volume 70, Issue 2, 15 December 2010, Pages 445-451

Author(s)

Patrick M. Erwin, Susanna López-Legenti and Peter W. Schuhmann

Study type

Peer Review Journal 

Abstract

Marine biodiversity is a resource of enormous importance to human societies that provides critical ecosystem services. Economic valuation of some services has been utilized to promote conservation initiatives by revealing a tangible and causative link between biodiversity declines and economic losses. Other ecosystem services have eluded valuation, including the value of the sea as a repository of novel pharmaceuticals. Here, we provide the first global estimate of the number, source and market value of undiscovered oncology drugs based on empirical data, industry statistics and conservative modelling assumptions. We report US$563 billion-5.69 trillion attributable to anti-cancer drugs of marine origin pending discovery, revealing a new and substantial at-risk ecosystem service value. Our model predicted 253,120-594,232 novel chemicals in marine organisms; 90.4–92.6% of these compounds remain undiscovered. A total of 55 to 214 new anti-cancer drugs were predicted to reach the market sourced primarily from animal phyla (Chordata, Mollusca, Porifera, and Byrozoa) and microbial phyla (Proteobacteria and Cyanobacteria). While no single aspect of extractive marine resource value should be relied upon to account for the opportunity costs of conservation initiatives, the application of valuation models to ecosystem services further reveals the true, irreversible economic cost of habitat degradation and biodiversity declines.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Ecosystem services
Environment and health >> Biodiversity and human health
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

Resource valuation; Ecosystem service; Drug discovery; Cancer; Marine biodiversity; Marine natural products

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy Thematic Issue

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921800910003897

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patrick@ceab.csic.es

Title

Anthropogenic Disturbance Can Determine the Magnitude of Opportunistic Species Responses on Marine Urban Infrastructures

Reference

PLoS ONE 6(8): e22985. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0022985
EU funded

Author(s)

Laura Airoldi, Fabio Bulleri

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Background: Coastal landscapes are being transformed as a consequence of the increasing demand for infrastructures to sustain residential, commercial and tourist activities. Thus, intertidal and shallow marine habitats are largely being replaced by a variety of artificial substrata (e.g. breakwaters, seawalls, jetties). Understanding the ecological functioning of these artificial habitats is key to planning their design and management, in order to minimise their impacts and to improve their potential to contribute to marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Nonetheless, little effort has been made to assess the role of human disturbances in shaping the structure of assemblages on marine artificial infrastructures. We tested the hypothesis that some negative impacts associated with the expansion of opportunistic and invasive species on urban infrastructures can be related to the severe human disturbances that are typical of these environments, such as those from maintenance and renovation works.
Methodology /Principal Findings:Maintenance caused a marked decrease in the cover of dominant space occupiers, such as mussels and oysters, and a significant enhancement of opportunistic and invasive forms, such as biofilm and macroalgae. These effects were particularly pronounced on sheltered substrata compared to exposed substrata. Experimental application of the disturbance in winter reduced the magnitude of the impacts compared to application in spring or summer. We use these results to identify possible management strategies to inform the improvement of the ecological value of artificial marine infrastructures.
Conclusions/Significance: We demonstrate that some of the impacts of globally expanding marine urban infrastructures, such as those related to the spread of opportunistic, and invasive species could be mitigated through ecologically-driven planning and management of long-term maintenance of these structures. Impact mitigation is a possible outcome of policies that consider the ecological features of built infrastructures and the fundamental value of controlling biodiversity in marine urban systems.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Coastal management

Keywords

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0022985
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Laura.airoldi@unibo.it

Title

In situ observations of fish associated with coral reefs off Ireland

Reference

Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers
Volume 58, Issue 8, August 2011, Pages 818-825
EU funded

Author(s)

M. Söffker, K.A. Sloman, J.M. Hall-Spencer

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The abundance and behaviour of fish on and around coral reefs at Twin Mounds and Giant Mounds, carbonate mounds located on the continental shelf off Ireland (600–1100 m), were studied using two Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) dives. We recorded 30 fish taxa on the dives, together with three species of Scleractinia (Lophelia pertusa, Madrepora oculata and Desmophyllum cristagalli) and a diverse range of other corals (Antipatharia, Alcyonacea, and Stylasteridae). Stands of live coral provided the only habitat in which Guttigadus latifrons was observed whereas Neocyttus helgae was found predominantly on structural habitats provided by dead coral. Significantly more fish were found on structurally complex coral rubble habitats than on flatter areas where coral rubble was clogged with sand. The most common species recorded was Lepidion eques (2136 individuals), which always occurred a few cm above bottom and was significantly more active on the reefs than on sedimentary habitats. Synaphobranchus kaupii (1157 indiv.), N. helgae (198 indiv.) and Micromesistius poutassou (116 indiv.) were also common; S. kaupii did not exhibit habitat-related differences in behaviour, whilst N. helgae was more active over the reefs and other structured habitats whereas M. poutassou was more active with decreasing habitat complexity. Trawl damage and abandoned fishing gear was observed at both sites. We conclude that Irish coral reefs provide complex habitats that are home to a diverse assemblage of fish utilising the range of niches occurring both above and within the reef structure.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

Cold-water corals; Continental Slope; Fish abundance; Fish community composition; Lepidion eques; Lophelia pertusa; Northeast Atlantic; Porcupine Bank; Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) observations

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/S0967063711001051
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mks204@exeter.ac.uk

Title

Indicators for Sea-floor Integrity under the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive

Reference

Ecological Indicators
Volume 12, Issue 1, January 2012, Pages 174-184

Author(s)

Jake Rice , Christos Arvanitidis, Angel Borja, Chris Frid, Jan G. Hiddink,   Jochen Krause, Pascal Lorance, Stefán Áki Ragnarsson, Mattias Sköld, Benedetta Trabucco, Lisette Enserink , Alf Norkko

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) requires European states to maintain their marine waters in ‘Good Environmental Status’. The MSFD includes 11 descriptors of “Good Environmental Status” (GES), including “Sea-floor Integrity”. This descriptor is defined as: “Sea-floor integrity is at a level that ensures that the structure and functions of the ecosystems are safeguarded and benthic ecosystems, in particular, are not adversely affected.”
This contribution briefly summarizes the main conclusions of an international expert group established to review the scientific basis for making this concept operational. The experts concluded that consideration of 8 attributes of the seabed system would provide adequate information to meet requirements of the MSFD: (i) substratum, (ii) bioengineers, (iii) oxygen concentration, (iv) contaminants and hazardous substances, (v) species composition, (vi) size distribution, (vii) trophodynamics and (viii) energy flow and life history traits. The experts further concluded that “Good Environmental Status” cannot be defined exclusively as “pristine Environmental Status”, but rather status when impacts of all uses were sustainable.
Uses are sustainable if two conditions are met: (i) the pressures associated with those uses do not hinder the ecosystem components to retain their natural diversity, productivity and dynamic ecological processes; (ii) recovery from perturbations such that the attributes lie within their range of historical natural variation must be rapid and secure. No single specific suite of indicators is proposed, both because no single set of indicators will meet the needs of all EU countries in all regional seas, and because according to the MSFD indicator selection is the prerogative of individual states. However, the need for conceptual consistency in assessing GES throughout European seas should be served if the selection of indicators and the integration of their information content in assessing GES follow the guidance in the report of the TG on Seafloor Integrity. This guidance is presented here in summary form.
Informed by this report European Commission selected as indicators for the Sea-floor Integrity: (i) type, abundance, biomass and areal extent of relevant biogenic substrate; (ii) extent of the seabed significantly affected by human activities for the different substrate types; (iii) presence of particularly sensitive and/or tolerant species; (iv) multi-metric indices assessing benthic community condition and functionality, such as species diversity and richness, proportion of opportunistic to sensitive species; (v) proportion of biomass or number of individuals in the macrobenthos above some specified length/size; and (vi) parameters describing the characteristics (shape, slope and intercept) of the size spectrum of the benthic community.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

Sea-floor Integrity; Benthic indicators; Marine Strategy Framework Directive; Good Environmental Status

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470160X11000744
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Jake.Rice@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Title

Coral and mollusc resistance to ocean acidification moderated by warming

Reference

Nature Climate Change 1, 308–31(2011) doi:10.1038/nclimate1200
EU funded

Author(s)

R. Rodolfo-Metalpa, F. Houlbrèque, É. Tambutté, F. Boisson, C. Baggini, F. P. Patti, R. Jeffree,M. Fine, A. Foggo, J-P. Gattuso  and J. M. HallSpencer

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations are expected to decrease surface ocean pH by 0.3–0.5 units by 2100 (refs 1,2), lowering the carbonate ion concentration of surface waters. This rapid acidification is predicted to dramatically decrease calcification in many marine organisms. Reduced skeletal growth under elevated CO₂ levels has already been shown for corals, molluscs and many other marine organisms 4-9. The impact of acidification on the ability of individual species to calcify has remained elusive, however,as measuring net calcification fails to disentangle the relative contributions of gross calcification and dissolution rates on growth. Here, we show that corals and molluscs transplanted along gradients of carbonate saturation state at Mediterranean CO₂ vents are able to calcify and grow at even faster than normal rates when exposed to the high CO₂ levels projected for the next 300 years. Calcifiers remain at risk, however, owing to the dissolution of exposed shells and skeletons that occurs as pH levels fall. Our results show that tissues and external organic layers play a major role in protecting shells and skeletons from corrosive seawater, limiting dissolution laboratory results demonstrate that the adverse effects of global warming are exacerbated when high temperatures coincide with acidification.

Policy theme(s)

Climate change and energy>> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

• Biodiversity and ecosystems;  Biology;  Conservation

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/nclimate/journal/v1/n6/full/nclimate1200.html
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riccardo@rodolfo-metalpa.com

Title

Monitoring plastic ingestion by the northern fulmar Fulmarus glacialis in the North Sea

Reference

Environmental Pollution
Volume 159, Issue 10, October 2011, Pages 2609-2615
EU funded

Author(s)

Jan A. van Franekera, Christine Blaizeb, Johannis Danielsenc, Keith Faircloughd , Jane Gollane , Nils Gusef , Poul-Lindhard Hanseng , Martin Heubeckh , Jens-Kjeld Jenseni , Gilles Le Guillouj , Bergur Olsenk , Kåre-Olav Olsenl , John Pedersenm , Eric W.M. Stienenn , Daniel M. Turnero

Study type

Peer Review Journal / Report

Abstract

The abundance of plastics in stomachs of northern fulmars from the North Sea is used in the OSPAR Ecological Quality Objective (EcoQO) for marine litter. The preliminary EcoQO defines acceptable ecological quality as the situation where no more than 10% of fulmars exceed a critical level of 0.1 g of plastic in the stomach. During 2003-2007, 95% of 1295 fulmars sampled in the North Sea had plastic in the stomach (on average 35 pieces weighing 0.31 g) and the critical level of 0.1 g of plastic was exceeded by 58% of birds, with regional variations ranging from 48 to 78%. Long term data for the Netherlands since the 1980s show a decrease of industrial, but an increase of user plastics, with shipping and fisheries as the main sources. The EcoQO is now also used as an indicator for Good Environmental Status in the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution

Keywords

Fulmarus glacialis; Plastic ingestion; Marine debris; Environmental monitoring; OSPAR EcoQO; MSFD-GES

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749111003344
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Jan.vanfraneker@wur.nl

Title

Hypoxia Is Increasing in the Coastal Zone of the Baltic Sea

Reference

Environ. Sci. Technol., 2011, 45 (16), pp 6777-6783

Author(s)

Daniel J. Conley, Jacob Carstensen, Juris Aigars, Philip Axe, Erik Bonsdorff, Tatjana Eremina, Britt-Marie Haahti, Christoph Humborg, Per Jonsson, Jonne Kotta, Christer Lannegren, Ulf Larsson, Alexey Maximov, Miguel Rodriguez Medina, Elzbieta Lysiak-Pastuszak, Nijole Remeikaite-Nikiene, Jakob Walve, Sunhild Wilhelms, and Lovisa Zille

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Hypoxia is a well-described phenomenon in the offshore waters of the Baltic Sea with both the spatial extent and intensity of hypoxia known to have increased due to anthropogenic eutrophication, however, an unknown amount of hypoxia is present in the coastal zone. Here we report on the widespread unprecedented occurrence of hypoxia across the coastal zone of the Baltic Sea. We have identified 115 sites that have experienced hypoxia during the period 1955-2009 increasing the global total to ca. 500 sites, with the Baltic Sea coastal zone containing over 20% of all known sites worldwide. Most sites experienced episodic hypoxia, which is a precursor to development of seasonal hypoxia. The Baltic Sea coastal zone displays an alarming trend with hypoxia steadily increasing with time since the 1950s effecting nutrient biogeochemical processes, ecosystem services, and coastal habitat.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution

Keywords:

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/es201212r
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daniel.conley@geol.lu.se

Title

Including impacts of particulate emissions on marine ecosystems in life cycle assessment (LCA): The case of offshore oil and gas production

Reference

Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management

DOI: 10.1002/ieam.246

Author(s)

Karin Veltman, Mark A.J. Huijbregts, Henrik Rye, Edgar G. Hertwich

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Life-cycle assessment (LCA) is increasingly used to assess the environmental performance of fossil energy systems. Two of the dominant emissions of offshore oil and gas production to the marine environment are the discharge of produced water and drilling waste. While environmental impacts of produced water are predominantly due to chemical stressors, a major concern regarding drilling waste discharge is the potential physical impact due to particles. At present, impact indicators for particulate emissions are not yet available in LCA. In this paper, we develop characterization factors (CF) for two distinct impacts of particulate emissions: an increased turbidity zone in the water column and physical burial of benthic communities. The characterization factor for turbidity is developed analogous to characterization factors for toxic impacts and ranges from 1.4 to 7.0·103 PAF·m³·day·g p^-1 for drilling mud particles discharged from the rig. The characterization factor for burial describes the volume of sediment that is impacted by particle deposition on the seafloor and equals 2.0·10^-1PAF·m³·day·kg p^-1 for cutting particles. This CF is quantified based on initial deposition layer characteristics, such as height and surface area, the initial benthic response, and the recovery rate. We assessed the relevance of including particulate emissions in an impact assessment of offshore oil and gas production. Therefore, the total impact on the water column and on the sediment was quantified based on emission data of produced water and drilling waste for all oil and gas fields on the Norwegian continental shelf year in 2008. Our results show that cutting particles contribute substantially to the total impact of offshore oil and gas production on marine sediments, with a relative contribution of 55% and 31% on the regional scale and the global scale, respectively. In contrast, the contribution of particulate emissions to the total impact on the marine water column is of minor importance. We conclude that particles are an important stressor in marine ecosystems, particularly for marine sediment, and particulate emissions should therefore be included in a (life cycle) impact assessment of offshore oil and gas production.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution

Keywords

LCA; characterization factors; offshore oil and gas production; particulate emissions; marine ecosystems

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Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

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http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ieam.246/abstract
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karin.veltman@ntnu.no

Title

Accumulation of heavy metals to assess the health status of swordfish in a comparative analysis of Mediterranean and Atlantic areas

Reference

Marine Pollution Bulletin
Volume 62, Issue 8, August 2011, Pages 1920-1925

Author(s)

Simone Damiano, Patrizia Papetti and Paolo Menesatti

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

During the last few decades, the combined effects of natural and human activities acting on the Mediterranean Sea basin have caused a reduction in the swordfish (Xiphias gladius, L. 1758) population. In this project, we investigated the accumulation of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and mercury (Hg) levels in the Atlantic and Mediterranean populations of swordfish during a five-year survey. In the marine environment, top predators such as swordfish accumulate high concentrations of toxic metals, and thus, potentially incur a high toxicological risk. Furthermore, heavy metals, such as chemical pollutants, have strong long-term effects on fish, and thus, constitute a high risk for the resource and humans that consume it. The aim of this work is to contribute to the assessment of the state of European swordfish population health. We analyzed muscle tissue from 56 specimens captured in Mediterranean and Atlantic areas for trace elements. Mean concentrations of Hg, Cd, and Pb were in the following ranges: 0.66-2.41, 0.04-0.16, and 0.97-1.36 mg/kg ww, respectively. These data suggest a need for continuous monitoring to avoid reductions in the population of this fish species of high commercial and ecological interest

Policy theme(s)

Chemicals >> Pollutants/hazardous substances >> Heavy metals
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution

Keywords

Accumulation, Heavy metals, Swordfish, Mediterranean, Atlantic

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

To be filled in later by editorial team

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X1100230X
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papetti@eco.unicas.it

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

View this study at:

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

Title

Reference

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2011
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1009447108

Author(s)

T. Hassenkam, A. Johnsson, K. Bechgaard, S. L. S. Stipp.

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Coccoliths are micrometer scale shields made from 20 to 60 individual
calcite (CaCO3) crystals that are produced by some species of
algae. Currently, coccoliths serve as an important sink in the global
carbon cycle, but decreasing ocean pH challenges their stability.
Chalk deposits, the fossil remains of ancient algae, have remained
remarkably unchanged by diagenesis, the process that converts
sediment to rock. Even after 60 million years, the fossil coccolith
crystals are still tiny (<1 µm), compared with inorganically produced
calcite, where one day old crystals can be 10 times larger,
which raises the question if the biogenic nature of coccolith calcite
gives it different properties than inorganic calcite? And if so, can
these properties protect coccoliths in CO2 challenged oceans? Here
we describe a new method for tracking dissolution of individual
specimens, at picogram (10-12 g) resolution. The results show that
the behavior of modern and fossil coccoliths is similar and both are
more stable than inorganic calcite. Organic material associated
with the biogenic calcite provides the explanation. However,
ancient and modern coccoliths, that resist dissolution in Ca-free
artificial seawater at pH > 8, all dissolve when pH is 7.8 or lower.
Ocean pH is predicted to fall below 7.8 by the year 2100, in
response to rising CO2 levels. Our results imply that at these conditions
the advantages offered by the biogenic nature of calcite
will disappear putting coccoliths on algae and in the calcareous
bottom sediments at risk.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

marine carbon cycle, ocean buffer capacity, dissolution rate, atomic
force microscopy, single particle dissolution

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2011/05/05/1009447108
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tue@nano.ku.dk  or stipp@nano.ku.dk .

Title

Unexpected patterns of fisheries collapse in the world's oceans

Reference

PNAS May 17, 2011 vol. 108 no. 20 8317-8322

Author(s)

Malin L. Pinsky, Olaf P. Jensen, Daniel Ricard and Stephen R. Palumbi

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Understanding which species are most vulnerable to human impacts is a prerequisite for designing effective conservation strategies. Surveys of terrestrial species have suggested that large-bodied species and top predators are the most at risk, and it is commonly assumed that such patterns also apply in the ocean. However, there has been no global test of this hypothesis in the sea. We analyzed two fisheries datasets (stock assessments and landings) to determine the life-history traits of species that have suffered dramatic population collapses. Contrary to expectations, our data suggest that up to twice as many fisheries for small, low trophic-level species have collapsed compared with those for large predators. These patterns contrast with those on land, suggesting fundamental differences in the ways that industrial fisheries and land conversion affect natural communities. Even temporary collapses of small, low trophic-level fishes can have ecosystem-wide impacts by reducing food supply to larger fish, seabirds, and marine mammals.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Fisheries

Keywords

body size, ecosystem-based management, food webs, life-history theory, marine conservation

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.pnas.org/content/108/20/8317.abstract
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malin.pinsky@gmail.com

Title

Impact of climate change and human-mediated introgression on southern European Atlantic salmon populations

Reference

Global Change Biology
Volume 17, Issue 5, pages 1778-1787, May 2011

Author(s)

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

This study focuses on temporal changes in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) populations from the vulnerable periphery of the species range (northern Spain). Using microsatellite markers to assess population structuring and introgression of exogenous genes in four different temporal samples collected across 20 years, we have determined the relative weights of climate and stocking practices in shaping contemporary regional population genetic patterns. Climate, represented by the North Atlantic Oscillation Index, was identified as the main factor for determining the level of population genetic differentiation. Populations within the region have become homogenized through gene flow enhanced by straying of adult salmon from natal rivers and subsequent interchange of genes among rivers due to warmer temperatures. At the same time, and in line with documented changes in stock transfer strategies, evidence of genetic introgression from past stock transfers has decreased throughout the study period, becoming a secondary factor in erasing population structuring. The ability to disentangle the effects of climatic changes and anthropogenic factors (fisheries management practices) is essential for effective long-term conservation of this iconic species. We emphasize the importance of evaluating all factors which may be linked to stocking practices in vulnerable species, particularly those sensitive to climate change.

Policy theme(s)

Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

anthropogenic-mediated migration, gene flow, NAOI, population structure, Salmo salar

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.1365-2486.2010.02350.x/abstract
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e-mail: egv@uniovi.es

Title

First health and pollution study on harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) living in the German Elbe estuary

Reference

Marine Pollution Bulletin, 2010; 60 (11): 2079
DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2010.07.011

Author(s)

Antje Kakuschke, Elizabeth Valentine–Thon, Simone Griesel, Juergen Gandrass, Octavio Perez Luzardo, Luis Dominguez Boada, Manuel Zumbado Peña, Maira Almeida González, Mechthild Grebe, Daniel Pröfrock.

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The Elbe is one of the major rivers releasing pollutants into the coastal areas of the German North Sea. Its estuary represents the habitat of a small population of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina). Only little is known about the health status and contamination levels of these seals. Therefore, a first-ever seal catch was organized next to the islands of Neuwerk and Scharhörn in the region of the Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park. The investigations included a broad set of health parameters and the analysis of metals and organic pollutants in blood samples. Compared to animals of other Wadden Sea areas, the seals showed higher γ-globulin levels, suggesting higher concentrations of pathogens in this near-urban area, elevated concentrations for several metals in particular for V, Sn, Pb, and Sr, and comparable ranges for chlorinated organic contaminants, except for elevated levels of hexachlorobenzene, which indicates characteristic inputs from the Elbe.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems>>Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems>>Marine pollution

Keywords

Harbor seal, Phoca vitulina, Elbe estuary, North Sea, Health, Pollution

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

View this study at:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X10003176
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Contact the study author at:

antjekakuschke@web.de

Title

Bycatch governance and best practice mitigation technology in global tuna fisheries

Reference

Marine Policy
Volume 35, Issue 5, September 2011, Pages 590-609

Author(s)

Eric L. Gilman

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Overexploitation of bycatch and target species in marine capture fisheries is the most widespread and direct driver of change and loss of global marine biodiversity. Bycatch in purse seine and pelagic longline tuna fisheries, the two primary gear types for catching tunas, is a primary mortality source of some populations of seabirds, sea turtles, marine mammals and sharks. Bycatch of juvenile tunas and unmarketable species and sizes of other fish in purse seine fisheries, and juvenile swordfish in longline fisheries, contributes to the overexploitation of some stocks, and is an allocation issue. There has been substantial progress in identifying gear technology solutions to seabird and sea turtle bycatch on longlines and to direct dolphin mortality in purse seines. Given sufficient investment, gear technology solutions are probably feasible for the remaining bycatch problems. More comprehensive consideration across species groups is needed to identify conflicts as well as mutual benefits from mitigation methods. Fishery-specific bycatch assessments are necessary to determine the efficacy, economic viability, practicality and safety of alternative mitigation methods. While support for gear technology research and development has generally been strong, political will to achieve broad uptake of best practices has been lacking. The five Regional Fisheries Management Organizations have achieved mixed progress mitigating bycatch. Large gaps remain in both knowledge of ecological risks and governance of bycatch. Most binding conservation and management measures fall short of gear technology best practice. A lack of performance standards, in combination with an inadequate observer coverage for all but large Pacific purse seiners, and incomplete data collection, hinders assessing measures' efficacy. Compliance is probably low due to inadequate surveillance and enforcement. Illegal, unreported and unregulated tuna fishing hampers governance efforts. Replacing consensus-based decision-making and eliminating opt-out provisions would help. Instituting rights-based management measures could elicit improved bycatch mitigation practices. While gradual improvements in an international governance of bycatch can be expected, market-based mechanisms, including retailers and their suppliers working with fisheries to gradually improve practices and governance, promise to be expeditious and effective.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems; Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems; Fisheries

Keywords

Bycatch, Discard, Fisheries, Mitigation, Regional fisheries management organization, Tuna

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

View this study at:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308597X11000224
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EricLGilman@gmail.com

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)

Chemicals >> Impacts >> Ecosystem impacts
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution

Keywords

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

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X11001974
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rolf.sundt@iris.no

Title

Historical Changes in Marine Resources, Food-web Structure and Ecosystem Functioning in the Adriatic Sea, Mediterranean

Reference

Ecosystems (2011) 14: 198-222

Author(s)

Heike K. Lotze, Marta Coll, and Jennifer A. Dunne

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The Mediterranean Sea has been strongly influenced by human activities for millennia. Although the environmental history of its surrounding terrestrial ecosystems has received considerable study, historical changes in its marine realm are less known. We used a multidisciplinary approach combining paleontological, archeological, historical, fisheries, and ecological data to reconstruct past changes in marine populations, habitats, and water quality in the Adriatic Sea. Then,we constructed binary food webs for different historical periods to analyze possible changes in food-web structure and functioning over time. Our results indicate that human activities have influenced marine resource abundance since at least Roman times and accelerated in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Today, 98% of traditional marine resources are depleted to less than 50% of former abundance, with large (>1 m) predators and consumers being most affected. With 37% of investigated species rare and 11% extirpated, diversity has shifted towards smaller, lower trophiclevel species, further aggravated by more than 40 species invasions. Species providing habitat and filter functions have been reduced by 75%, contributing to the degradation of water quality and increased eutrophication. Increased exploitation and functional extinctions have altered and simplified foodweb structure over time, especially by changing the proportions of top predators, intermediate consumers, and basal species. Moreover, simulations of species losses indicate that today's ecosystems may be less robust to species extinctions than in the past. Our results illustrate the long-term and far-reaching consequences human activities can have on marine food webs and ecosystems.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

Environmental history, Human impacts, Shifting baselines, Ecosystem consequences, Conservation

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.springerlink.com/content/8k23644np1340886/
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hlotze@dal.ca

Title

Could Seals Prevent Cod Recovery in the Baltic Sea?

Reference

PloS ONE

Author(s)

Brian R. MacKenzie, Margit Eero, Henn Ojaveer

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Fish populations are increasingly affected by multiple human and natural impacts including exploitation, eutrophication, habitat alteration and climate change. As a result many collapsed populations may have to recover in ecosystems whose structure and functioning differ from those in which they were formerly productive and supported sustainable fisheries. Here we investigate how a cod (Gadus morhua) population in the Baltic Sea whose biomass was reduced due to a combination of high exploitation and deteriorating environmental conditions might recover and develop in the 21st century in an ecosystem that likely will change due to both the already started recovery of a cod predator, the grey seal Halichoerus grypus, and projected climate impacts. Simulation modelling, assuming increased seal predation, fishing levels consistent with management plan targets and stable salinity, shows that the cod population could reach high levels well above the long-term average. Scenarios with similar seal and fishing levels but with 15% lower salinity suggest that the Baltic will still be able to support a cod population which can sustain a fishery, but biomass and yields will be lower. At present knowledge of cod and seal interactions, seal predation was found to have much lower impact on cod recovery, compared to the effects of exploitation and salinity. These results suggest that dual management objectives (recovery of both seal and cod populations) are realistic but success in achieving these goals will also depend on how climate change affects cod recruitment.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Fisheries

Keywords

N/A

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0018998
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Contact the study author at:

brm@aqua.dtu.dk

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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Contact the study author at:

orea.anderson@rspb.org.uk

Title

The influence of environmental characteristics on fish larvae spatial patterns related to a marine protected area: The Medes islands (NW Mediterranean)

Reference

Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science
Volume 92, Issue 4, 20 May 2011, Pages 521-533

Author(s)

Àngel López-Sanz , Vanessa Stelzenmüller Francesc Maynou and Ana Sabatés

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

We assessed the linkages between environmental variables and the spatio-temporal distribution patterns of larval abundance of coastal fish assemblages within and outside the Medes Islands marine protected area (MPA; NW Mediterranean) to explore possible fisheries effects such as larvae export of the latter. We analyzed small-scale fish larvae distribution of 28 representative taxa from the rocky fish assemblage and combined the former in different groups with the help of cluster analysis. Further we assessed the influence of selected abiotic variables on group and species distributions using Generalized Additive Models (GAM's). We found a high level of variability in the response of larvae groups and species to environmental variables over the two studied periods (spring and summer); depth and habitat of the adults being the most important factors. In addition, distance to the MPA was found as an important variable in defining the location of larvae of strictly coastal species. Our results provided evidence of larval export of three commercial species affected by the MPA (Epinephelus marginatus, Pagellus erythrinus and Scorpaena porcus). Thus our study contributes to the few empirical assessments of larvae export from MPAs and adds to the understanding of the functioning of MPAs as fisheries management tools. Nevertheless, in the future integrated assessments of fisheries effects of MPAs are required that measure the effect of larvae and biomass export on increased fishing yield while taking into account fishing effort dynamics.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Protected areas/Natura 2000
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

GAM, temporal variations, fish larvae, environmental conditions, marine parks, geographical distributions, NW Mediterranean

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272771411000473
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alopez@icm.cat

Title

Implementation of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive: A methodological approach for the assessment of environmental status, from the Basque Country (Bay of Biscay)

Reference

Marine Pollution Bulletin
Volume 62, Issue 5, May 2011, Pages 889-904

Author(s)

Ángel Borja, Ibon Galparsoro, Xabier Irigoien, Ane Iriondo et al

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) is directing European marine research towards the coordinated and integrated assessment of sea environmental status, following the ecosystem-based approach. The MSFD uses a set of 11 descriptors which, together, summarise the way in which the whole system functions. As such, the European Commission has proposed an extensive set of indicators, to assess environmental status. Hence, taking account of the large amount of data available for the Basque coast (southern Bay of Biscay), together with a recent proposal for assessment within the MSFD, an integrated environmental status assessment approach is developed (for the first time) in this contribution. The strengths and weaknesses of the method, combined with proposals from the MSFD, are discussed.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Marine pollution

Keywords

Marine Strategy Framework Directive, Environmental status, Methodological approach, Implementation, Quality assessment

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X11001743
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aborja@azti.es

Title

Identifying Fishes through DNA Barcodes and Microarrays

Reference

PLoS ONE 5(9): e12620.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0012620

Author(s)

Marc Kochzius , Christian Seidel, Aglaia Antoniou et al

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Background
International fish trade reached an import value of 62.8 billion Euro in 2006, of which 44.6% are covered by the European Union. Species identification is a key problem throughout the life cycle of fishes: from eggs and larvae to adults in fisheries research and control, as well as processed fish products in consumer protection.
Methodology/Principal Findings
This study aims to evaluate the applicability of the three mitochondrial genes 16S rRNA (16S), cytochrome b (cyt b), and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) for the identification of 50 European marine fish species by combining techniques of 'DNA barcoding' and microarrays. In a DNA barcoding approach, neighbour Joining (NJ) phylogenetic trees of 369 16S, 212 cyt b, and 447 COI sequences indicated that cyt b and COI are suitable for unambiguous identification, whereas 16S failed to discriminate closely related flatfish and gurnard species. In course of probe design for DNA microarray development, each of the markers yielded a high number of potentially species-specific probes in silico, although many of them were rejected based on microarray hybridisation experiments. None of the markers provided probes to discriminate the sibling flatfish and gurnard species. However, since 16S-probes were less negatively influenced by the 'position of label' effect and showed the lowest rejection rate and the highest mean signal intensity, 16S is more suitable for DNA microarray probe design than cty b and COI. The large portion of rejected COI-probes after hybridisation experiments (>90%) renders the DNA barcoding marker as rather unsuitable for this high-throughput technology.
Conclusions/Significance
Based on these data, a DNA microarray containing 64 functional oligonucleotide probes for the identification of 30 out of the 50 fish species investigated was developed. It represents the next step towards an automated and easy-to-handle method to identify fish, ichthyoplankton, and fish products.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Fisheries

Keywords

N/A

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.plosone.org/article/info:doi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0012620
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Contact the study author at:

marc.kochzius@vub.ac.be

Title

Human pressures on UK seabed habitats: a cumulative impact assessment

Reference

Marine Ecology Progress Series
Vol. 428: 33-47, 2011
doi: 10.3354/meps09064

Author(s)

Jo Foden, Stuart I. Rogers, Andrew P. Jones

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

European Member States are required to assess the status of marine waters, including analysis of cumulative effects. We developed a methodology for evaluating the impact of several human activities that constitute 4 direct pressures on the UK (England and Wales) seabed community: smothering, abrasion, obstruction (sealing), and extraction. The method was tested by mapping the spatial extent of individual and cumulative activities for 2007 by habitat type, quantifying the intensity of activities, and estimating impact using published recovery times. More than half (134400 km2) of the seabed was directly affected by human activities, of which only 165 km2 (<0.1%) was occupied by multiple activities. Benthic fishing accounted for 99.6% of the spatial footprint. Sensitivity to the pressures of human activities varied by habitat type, with estimated recovery times ranging from <1 mo for otter trawling in sand, to ~15 yr for co-occurring aggregate extraction and dredge material disposal in low-energy gravel habitat. Fully integrated, dynamically-linked environmental assessments are generally considered desirable for greater scientific understanding of an ecosystem. The methodology we present for quantifying cumulative effects is a step towards this. However, our findings indicate that a limited number of activities were the predominant cause of widespread, long recovery times of benthic fauna. This suggests that when time and resources are limited, single sector assessment rather than detailed evaluation of cumulative effects, can still usefully guide management. As the observed cumulative effects were primarily related to a few activities, it might reasonably be argued that management effort should be focused on spatially extensive activities, such as benthic fishing to mitigate most of the human impact on the UK seabed.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

Abrasion, Cumulative impact, Extraction, Marine habitats, Obstruction, Recovery, Smothering, UK seabed

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v428/p33-47/
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jo.foden@uea.ac.uk

Title

Combined Effects of Levels of Protection and Environmental Variables at Different Spatial Resolutions on Fish Assemblages in a Marine Protected Area

Reference

Conservation Biology
Volume 25, Issue 1, pages 105-114, February 2011

Author(s)

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The links between species-environment relations and species' responses to protection are unclear, but the objectives of marine protected areas (MPAs) are most likely to be achieved when those relations are known and inform MPA design. The components of a species' habitat vary with the spatial resolution of the area considered. We characterized areas at two resolutions: 250 m2 (transect) and approximately 30,000 m2 (seascape). We considered three categories of environmental variables: substrate type, bottom complexity, and depth. We sought to determine at which resolution habitat characteristics were a better predictor of abundance and species composition of fishes and whether the relations with environmental variables at either resolution affected species' responses to protection. Habitat features accounted for a larger proportion of spatial variation in species composition and abundances than differences in protection status. This spatial variation was explained best by habitat characteristics at the seascape level than at the transect level. Species' responses to protected areas were specific to particular seascape characteristics, primarily depth, and bottom complexity. Our method may be useful for prioritizing marine areas for protection, designing MPAs, and monitoring their effectiveness. It identified areas that provided natural shelter, areas acting as buffer zones, and areas where fish species were most responsive to protection. The identification of such areas is necessary for cost-effective establishment and monitoring of MPAs.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Protected areas/Natura 2000
Marine ecosystems >>Biodiversity

Keywords

buffer zone; full protection; geographic information system (GIS); landscape ecology; marine reserve; partial protection; seascape sampling unit

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2010.01586.x/abstract There is a fee to view this study in full

Contact the study author at:

Joachim.claudet@gmail.com

Title

Alien Marine Fishes Deplete Algal Biomass in the Eastern Mediterranean

Reference

PLoS ONE 6(2): e17356.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0017356

Author(s)

Enric Sala , Zafer Kizilkaya, Derya Yildirim, Enric Ballesteros

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

One of the most degraded states of the Mediterranean rocky infralittoral ecosystem is a barren composed solely of bare rock and patches of crustose coralline algae. Barrens are typically created by the grazing action of large sea urchin populations. In 2008 we observed extensive areas almost devoid of erect algae, where sea urchins were rare, on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. To determine the origin of those urchin-less ‘barrens’, we conducted a fish exclusion experiment. We found that, in the absence of fish grazing, a well-developed algal assemblage grew within three months. Underwater fish censuses and observations suggest that two alien herbivorous fish from the Red Sea (Siganus luridus and S. rivulatus) are responsible for the creation and maintenance of these benthic communities with extremely low biomass. The shift from well-developed native algal assemblages to ‘barrens’ implies a dramatic decline in biogenic habitat complexity, biodiversity and biomass. A targeted Siganus fishery could help restore the macroalgal beds of the rocky infralittoral on the Turkish coast.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity>>Threats to biodiversity>>Invasive species
Marine ecosystems>>Biodiversity

Keywords

N/A

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

View this study at:

http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0017356
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Contact the study author at:

esala@ngs.org

Title

Reserve design for uncertain responses of coral reefs to climate change

Reference

DOI: 10.1111/j.1461-0248.2010.01562.x
Ecology Letters Volume 14, Issue 2, pages 132-140, February 2011

Author(s)

Peter J. Mumby, Ian A. Elliott,C. Mark Eakin, William Skirving, Claire B. Paris, Helen J. Edwards, Susana Enríquez, Roberto Iglesias-Prieto, Laurent M. Cherubin, Jamie R. Stevens

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Rising sea temperatures cause mass coral bleaching and threaten reefs worldwide. We show how maps of variations in thermal stress can be used to help manage reefs for climate change. We map proxies of chronic and acute thermal stress and develop evidence-based hypotheses for the future response of corals to each stress regime. We then incorporate spatially realistic predictions of larval connectivity among reefs of the Bahamas and apply novel reserve design algorithms to create reserve networks for a changing climate. We show that scales of larval dispersal are large enough to connect reefs from desirable thermal stress regimes into a reserve network. Critically, we find that reserve designs differ according to the anticipated scope for phenotypic and genetic adaptation in corals, which remains uncertain. Attempts to provide a complete reserve design that hedged against different evolutionary outcomes achieved limited success, which emphasises the importance of considering the scope for adaptation explicitly. Nonetheless, 15% of reserve locations were selected under all evolutionary scenarios, making them a high priority for early designation. Our approach allows new insights into coral holobiont adaptation to be integrated directly into an adaptive approach to management.

Policy theme(s)

Biodiversity >> Habitats >> Protected areas/Natura 2000
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts
Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity

Keywords

Acclimation, adaptation, algorithm, connectivity, conservation, coral, marine reserve

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.1461-0248.2010.01562.x/abstract
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Contact the study author at:

p.j.mumby@uq.edu.au

Title

Relationship between sedimentation rates and benthic impact on Maërl beds derived from fish farming in the Mediterranean

Reference

Author(s)

Carlos Sanz-Lázaro , María Dolores Belando , Lázaro Marín-Guirao , Francisco Navarrete-Mier and Arnaldo Marín

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The aim of this work was to study the dispersion of particulate wastes derived from marine fish farming and correlate the data with the impact on the seabed. Carbon and nutrients were correlated with the physico-chemical parameters of the sediment and the benthic community structure. The sedimentation rates in the benthic system were 1.09, 0.09 and 0.13 g m-2 day-1 for particulate organic carbon (POC), particulate organic nitrogen (PON) and total phosphorus (TP), respectively. TP was a reliable parameter for establishing the spatial extent of the fish farm particulate wastes. Fish farming was seen to influence not only physico-chemical and biological parameters but also the functioning of the ecosystem from a trophic point of view, particularly affecting the grazers and the balance among the trophic groups. POC, PON and TP sedimentation dynamics reflected the physico-chemical status of the sediment along the distance gradient studied, while their impact on the benthic community extended further. Therefore, the level of fish farm impact on the benthic community might be underestimated if it is assessed by merely taking into account data obtained from waste dispersion rates. The benthic habitat beneath the fish farm, Maërl bed, was seen to be very sensitive to aquaculture impact compared with other unvegetated benthic habitats, with an estimated POC-carrying capacity to maintain current diversity of 0.087 g C m-2 day-1 (only 36% greater than the basal POC input). Environmental protection agencies should define different aquaculture waste load thresholds for different benthic communities affected by finfish farming, according to their particular degree of sensitivity, in order to maintain natural ecosystem functions.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Marine ecosystems >> Fisheries

Keywords

Mediterranean, Particulate wastes, Finfish aquaculture, Trophic groups

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141113610001637
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Contact the study author at:

carsanz@um.es

Title

Global Ocean protection : Present Status and Future Possibilities

Reference

IUCN 23 November 2010

Author(s)

Toropova, C., Meliane, I., Laffoley, D., Matthews, E. and Spalding, M. (eds.)

Study type

Report

Abstract

This publication provides a much needed and timely tool to assist in the collective effort to find new and better solutions to address the various threats to the marine biological diversity and productivity. It provides evidence-based recommendations on improving and accelerating actions on delivering ocean protection and management through marine protected areas and facilitates the sharing of experiences and lessons learned.

Policy theme(s)

Marine ecosystems >> Biodiversity
Climate change and energy >> Climate change adaptation >> Biodiversity impacts

Keywords

Marine ecosystems, Ocean protection, Marine protected areas

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://data.iucn.org/dbtw-wpd/edocs/2010-053.pdf
This study is free to view

Contact the study author at:

publications@iucn.org