Journal articles: 'Marine ecosystem functioning'

1

Hochfeld, Isabell, and Jana Hinners. "Phytoplankton adaptation to steady or changing environments affects marine ecosystem functioning." Biogeosciences 21, no. 23 (December 13, 2024): 5591–611. https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-21-5591-2024.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract. Global warming poses a major threat to marine ecosystems, which fulfill important functions for humans and the climate. Ecosystem models are therefore increasingly used to estimate future changes in the functioning of marine ecosystems. However, projections differ notably between models. We propose that a major uncertainty factor in current models is that they ignore the high adaptive potential of phytoplankton, key players in marine ecosystems. Here, we use a zero-dimensional evolutionary ecosystem model to study how phytoplankton adaptation can affect estimates of future ecosystem-level changes. We found that phytoplankton adaptation can notably change simulated ecosystem dynamics, with the effect depending on environmental conditions. In a steady environment, adaptation allows for a more efficient use of resources, which enhances primary production and related ecosystem functions. In a warming environment, on the contrary, adaptation mitigates dominance changes among functionally different taxa and consequently leads to weaker changes in related ecosystem functions. Our results demonstrate that by neglecting phytoplankton adaptation, models may systematically overestimate future changes in the functioning of marine ecosystems. Future work can build on our results and include evolutionary processes into more complex model environments.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

2

Beaugrand, G., M. Edwards, and L. Legendre. "Marine biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and carbon cycles." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 107, no. 22 (May 17, 2010): 10120–24. http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.0913855107.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

3

Maureaud, Aurore, Dorothee Hodapp, P. Daniël van Denderen, Helmut Hillebrand, Henrik Gislason, Tim Spaanheden Dencker, Esther Beukhof, and Martin Lindegren. "Biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationships in fish communities: biomass is related to evenness and the environment, not to species richness." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 286, no. 1906 (July 10, 2019): 20191189. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2019.1189.

Full text

Abstract:

The relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning (BEF) is a topic of considerable interest to scientists and managers because a better understanding of its underlying mechanisms may help us mitigate the consequences of biodiversity loss on ecosystems. Our current knowledge of BEF relies heavily on theoretical and experimental studies, typically conducted on a narrow range of spatio-temporal scales, environmental conditions, and trophic levels. Hence, whether a relationship holds in the natural environment is poorly understood, especially in exploited marine ecosystems. Using large-scale observations of marine fish communities, we applied a structural equation modelling framework to investigate the existence and significance of BEF relationships across northwestern European seas. We find that ecosystem functioning, here represented by spatial patterns in total fish biomass, is unrelated to species richness—the most commonly used diversity metric in BEF studies. Instead, community evenness, differences in species composition, and abiotic variables are significant drivers. In particular, we find that high fish biomass is associated with fish assemblages dominated by a few generalist species of a high trophic level, who are able to exploit both the benthic and pelagic energy pathway. Our study provides a better understanding of the mechanisms behind marine ecosystem functioning and allows for the integration of biodiversity into management considerations.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

4

Lindegren, Martin, David M. Checkley, Mark D. Ohman, J. Anthony Koslow, and Ralf Goericke. "Resilience and stability of a pelagic marine ecosystem." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 283, no. 1822 (January 13, 2016): 20151931. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2015.1931.

Full text

Abstract:

The accelerating loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services worldwide has accentuated a long-standing debate on the role of diversity in stabilizing ecological communities and has given rise to a field of research on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning (BEF). Although broad consensus has been reached regarding the positive BEF relationship, a number of important challenges remain unanswered. These primarily concern the underlying mechanisms by which diversity increases resilience and community stability, particularly the relative importance of statistical averaging and functional complementarity. Our understanding of these mechanisms relies heavily on theoretical and experimental studies, yet the degree to which theory adequately explains the dynamics and stability of natural ecosystems is largely unknown, especially in marine ecosystems. Using modelling and a unique 60-year dataset covering multiple trophic levels, we show that the pronounced multi-decadal variability of the Southern California Current System (SCCS) does not represent fundamental changes in ecosystem functioning, but a linear response to key environmental drivers channelled through bottom-up and physical control. Furthermore, we show strong temporal asynchrony between key species or functional groups within multiple trophic levels caused by opposite responses to these drivers. We argue that functional complementarity is the primary mechanism reducing community variability and promoting resilience and stability in the SCCS.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

5

Bundy, Alida, Lynne J. Shannon, Marie-Joëlle Rochet, Sergio Neira, Yunne-Jai Shin, Louize Hill, and Kerim Aydin. "The good(ish), the bad, and the ugly: a tripartite classification of ecosystem trends." ICES Journal of Marine Science 67, no. 4 (January 6, 2010): 745–68. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsp283.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Bundy, A., Shannon, L. J., Rochet, M-J., Neira, S., Shin, Y-J., Hill, L., and Aydin, K. 2010. The good(ish), the bad, and the ugly: a tripartite classification of ecosystem trends. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 67: 745–768. Marine ecosystems have been exploited for a long time, growing increasingly vulnerable to collapse and irreversible change. How do we know when an ecosystem may be in danger? A measure of the status of individual stocks is only a partial gauge of its status, and does not include changes at the broader ecosystem level, to non-commercial species or to its structure or functioning. Six ecosystem indicators measuring trends over time were collated for 19 ecosystems, corresponding to four ecological attributes: resource potential, ecosystem structure and functioning, conservation of functional biodiversity, and ecosystem stability and resistance to perturbations. We explored the use of a decision-tree approach, a definition of initial ecosystem state (impacted or non-impacted), and the trends in the ecosystem indicators to classify the ecosystems into improving, stationary, and deteriorating. Ecosystem experts classified all ecosystems as impacted at the time of their initial state. Of these, 15 were diagnosed as “ugly”, because they had deteriorated from an already impacted state. Several also exhibited specific combinations of trends indicating “fishing down the foodweb”, reduction in size structure, reduction in diversity and stability, and changed productivity. The classification provides an initial evaluation for scientists, resource managers, stakeholders, and the general public of the concerning status of ecosystems globally.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

6

Bulling, Mark T., Natalie Hicks, Leigh Murray, David M. Paterson, Dave Raffaelli, Piran C. L. White, and Martin Solan. "Marine biodiversity–ecosystem functions under uncertain environmental futures." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 365, no. 1549 (July 12, 2010): 2107–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2010.0022.

Full text

Abstract:

Anthropogenic activity is currently leading to dramatic transformations of ecosystems and losses of biodiversity. The recognition that these ecosystems provide services that are essential for human well-being has led to a major interest in the forms of the biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationship. However, there is a lack of studies examining the impact of climate change on these relationships and it remains unclear how multiple climatic drivers may affect levels of ecosystem functioning. Here, we examine the roles of two important climate change variables, temperature and concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide, on the relationship between invertebrate species richness and nutrient release in a model benthic estuarine system. We found a positive relationship between invertebrate species richness and the levels of release of NH 4 -N into the water column, but no effect of species richness on the release of PO 4 -P. Higher temperatures and greater concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide had a negative impact on nutrient release. Importantly, we found significant interactions between the climate variables, indicating that reliably predicting the effects of future climate change will not be straightforward as multiple drivers are unlikely to have purely additive effects, resulting in increased levels of uncertainty.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

7

Johnston, Emma L., Mariana Mayer-Pinto, and Tasman P. Crowe. "REVIEW: Chemical contaminant effects on marine ecosystem functioning." Journal of Applied Ecology 52, no. 1 (October 29, 2014): 140–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.12355.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

8

Harmelin–Vivien, M. L., D. Bǎnaru, J. Dierking, R. Hermand, Y. Letourneur, and C. Salen-Picard. "Linking benthic biodiversity to the functioning of coastal ecosystems subjected to river runoff (NW Mediterranean)." Animal Biodiversity and Conservation 32, no. 2 (2009): 135–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.32800/abc.2009.32.0135.

Full text

Abstract:

Continental particulate organic matter (POM) plays a major role in the functioning of coastal marine ecosystems as a disturbance as well as an input of nutrients. Relationships linking continental inputs from the Rhone River to biodiversity of the coastal benthic ecosystem and fishery production were investigated in the Golfe du Lion (NW Mediterranean Sea). Macrobenthic community diversity decreased when continen¬tal inputs of organic matter increased, whereas ecosystem production, measured by common sole (Solea solea) fishery yields in the area, increased. Decreases in macrobenthic diversity were mainly related to an increasing abundance of species with specific functional traits, particularly deposit-feeding polychaetes. The decrease in macrobenthic diversity did not result in a decrease, but an increase in ecosystem production, as it enhanced the transfer of continental POM into marine food webs. The present study showed that it is necessary to consider functional traits of species, direct and indirect links between species, and feedback loops to understand the effects of biodiversity on ecosystem functioning and productivity.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

9

Hillebrand, Helmut, Ute Jacob, and Heather M. Leslie. "Integrative research perspectives on marine conservation." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 375, no. 1814 (November 2, 2020): 20190444. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2019.0444.

Full text

Abstract:

Whereas the conservation and management of biodiversity has become a key issue in environmental sciences and policy in general, the conservation of marine biodiversity faces additional challenges such as the challenges of accessing field sites (e.g. polar, deep sea), knowledge gaps regarding biodiversity trends, high mobility of many organisms in fluid environments, and ecosystem-specific obstacles to stakeholder engagement and governance. This issue comprises contributions from a diverse international group of scientists in a benchmarking volume for a common research agenda on marine conservation. We begin by addressing information gaps on marine biodiversity trends through novel approaches and technologies, then linking such information to ecosystem functioning through a focus on traits. We then leverage the knowledge of these relationships to inform theory aiming at predicting the future composition and functioning of marine communities. Finally, we elucidate the linkages between marine ecosystems and human societies by examining economic, management and governance approaches that contribute to effective marine conservation in practice. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Integrative research perspectives on marine conservation’.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

10

Pascal, Ludovic, Antoine Grémare, Xavier Montaudouin, Bruno Deflandre, Alicia Romero‐Ramirez, and Olivier Maire. "Parasitism in ecosystem engineer species: A key factor controlling marine ecosystem functioning." Journal of Animal Ecology 89, no. 9 (May 4, 2020): 2192–205. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1365-2656.13236.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

11

de Moura Queirós, Ana, Jan Geert Hiddink, Gareth Johnson, Henrique Nogueira Cabral, and Michel Joseph Kaiser. "Context dependence of marine ecosystem engineer invasion impacts on benthic ecosystem functioning." Biological Invasions 13, no. 5 (February 19, 2011): 1059–75. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10530-011-9948-3.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

12

Zhang, Y., and Brian Silliman. "A Facilitation Cascade Enhances Local Biodiversity in Seagrass Beds." Diversity 11, no. 3 (February 26, 2019): 30. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d11030030.

Full text

Abstract:

Invertebrate diversity can be a key driver of ecosystem functioning, yet understanding what factors influence local biodiversity remains uncertain. In many marine and terrestrial systems, facilitation cascades where primary foundation and/or autogenic ecosystem engineering species promote the settlement and survival of a secondary foundation/engineering species have been shown to enhance local biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. We experimentally tested if a facilitation cascade occurs among eelgrass (Zostera marina), pen clams (Atrina rigida), and community diversity in temperate seagrass beds in North Carolina, U.S.A., and if this sequence of direct positive interactions created feedbacks that affected various metrics of seagrass ecosystem function and structure. Using a combination of surveys and transplant experiments, we found that pen clam density and survivorship was significantly greater in seagrass beds, indicating that eelgrass facilitates pen clams. Pen clams in turn enhanced local diversity and increased both the abundance and species richness of organisms (specifically, macroalgae and fouling invertebrate fauna)—the effect of which scaled with increasing clam density. However, we failed to detect an impact of pen clams on other seagrass functions and hypothesize that functioning may more likely be enhanced in scenarios where secondary foundation species specifically increase the diversity of key functional groups such as epiphyte grazers and/or when bivalves are infaunal rather than epifaunal. Our findings add to the growing amount of literature that demonstrates that secondary foundation species are important drivers of local biodiversity in marine ecosystems. Further experimentation is needed that directly examines (i) the role of functional versus overall diversity on seagrass functions and (ii) the relative importance of life-history strategy in determining when and where engineering bivalves increase biodiversity and/or functioning of seagrass beds.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

13

Gascuel, Didier, Lyne Morissette, Maria Lourdes D. Palomares, and Villy Christensen. "Trophic flow kinetics in marine ecosystems: Toward a theoretical approach to ecosystem functioning." Ecological Modelling 217, no. 1-2 (September 2008): 33–47. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2008.05.012.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

14

Zhang, Yixin, Junjiro N. Negishi, John S. Richardson, and Renata Kolodziejczyk. "Impacts of marine-derived nutrients on stream ecosystem functioning." Proceedings of the Royal Society of London. Series B: Biological Sciences 270, no. 1529 (October 22, 2003): 2117–23. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2003.2478.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

15

Gascuel, Didier, and Daniel Pauly. "EcoTroph: Modelling marine ecosystem functioning and impact of fishing." Ecological Modelling 220, no. 21 (November 2009): 2885–98. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2009.07.031.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

16

Boero, Ferdinando, and Erik Bonsdorff. "A conceptual framework for marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning." Marine Ecology 28 (September 10, 2007): 134–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0485.2007.00171.x.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

17

Ashford, Oliver S., Shuzhe Guan, Dante Capone, Katherine Rigney, Katelynn Rowley, Erik E. Cordes, Jorge Cortés, et al. "Relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning proxies strengthen when approaching chemosynthetic deep-sea methane seeps." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 288, no. 1957 (August 18, 2021): 20210950. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2021.0950.

Full text

Abstract:

As biodiversity loss accelerates globally, understanding environmental influence over biodiversity–ecosystem functioning (BEF) relationships becomes crucial for ecosystem management. Theory suggests that resource supply affects the shape of BEF relationships, but this awaits detailed investigation in marine ecosystems. Here, we use deep-sea chemosynthetic methane seeps and surrounding sediments as natural laboratories in which to contrast relationships between BEF proxies along with a gradient of trophic resource availability (higher resource methane seep, to lower resource photosynthetically fuelled deep-sea habitats). We determined sediment fauna taxonomic and functional trait biodiversity, and quantified bioturbation potential (BPc), calcification degree, standing stock and density as ecosystem functioning proxies. Relationships were strongly unimodal in chemosynthetic seep habitats, but were undetectable in transitional ‘chemotone’ habitats and photosynthetically dependent deep-sea habitats. In seep habitats, ecosystem functioning proxies peaked below maximum biodiversity, perhaps suggesting that a small number of specialized species are important in shaping this relationship. This suggests that absolute biodiversity is not a good metric of ecosystem ‘value’ at methane seeps, and that these deep-sea environments may require special management to maintain ecosystem functioning under human disturbance. We promote further investigation of BEF relationships in non-traditional resource environments and emphasize that deep-sea conservation should consider ‘functioning hotspots' alongside biodiversity hotspots.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

18

Rizzo, Lucia, and Tomás Vega Fernández. "Can the Invasive Seaweed Caulerpa cylidracea Represent a New Trophic Resource in the Mediterranean Sea?" Water 15, no. 11 (June 2, 2023): 2115. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/w15112115.

Full text

Abstract:

Non-indigenous species (NIS) represent one of the greatest threats to biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, altering invaded habitats, competing with native species, and eventually becoming pests. The Mediterranean Sea is a marine biodiversity hotspot, with its coasts being densely populated and its living resources fished since ancient times. As a result of such a long history of exploitation, the whole basin is exposed to a wide array of human pressures, with their combined effects on marine ecosystems being amplified by ongoing climate change. Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder, 1845, is a non-indigenous invasive seaweed widely distributed in the coastal habitats of the Mediterranean Sea, which ultimately affects marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Here, a systematic literature analysis on the consumption of the NIS Caulerpa cylindracea by Mediterranean native and NIS species is provided, focusing on the benefits and drawbacks for the native biota and human health. The present review aims to synthetise knowledge and provide tools to manage the occurrence of the invasive seaweed C. cylindracea in the Mediterranean Sea, encouraging an ecosystem-based approach to the management of the ecological, economic, and social effects of the successful expansion of this NIS.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

19

Tam, Jamie C., Jason S. Link, Axel G. Rossberg, Stuart I. Rogers, Philip S. Levin, Marie-Joëlle Rochet, Alida Bundy, et al. "Towards ecosystem-based management: identifying operational food-web indicators for marine ecosystems." ICES Journal of Marine Science 74, no. 7 (February 4, 2017): 2040–52. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsw230.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Modern approaches to Ecosystem-Based Management and sustainable use of marine resources must account for the myriad of pressures (interspecies, human and environmental) affecting marine ecosystems. The network of feeding interactions between co-existing species and populations (food webs) are an important aspect of all marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Here we describe and discuss a process to evaluate the selection of operational food-web indicators for use in evaluating marine ecosystem status. This process brought together experts in food-web ecology, marine ecology, and resource management, to identify available indicators that can be used to inform marine management. Standard evaluation criteria (availability and quality of data, conceptual basis, communicability, relevancy to management) were implemented to identify practical food-web indicators ready for operational use and indicators that hold promise for future use in policy and management. The major attributes of the final suite of operational food-web indicators were structure and functioning. Indicators that represent resilience of the marine ecosystem were less developed. Over 60 potential food-web indicators were evaluated and the final selection of operational food-web indicators includes: the primary production required to sustain a fishery, the productivity of seabirds (or charismatic megafauna), zooplankton indicators, primary productivity, integrated trophic indicators, and the biomass of trophic guilds. More efforts should be made to develop thresholds-based reference points for achieving Good Environmental Status. There is also a need for international collaborations to develop indicators that will facilitate management in marine ecosystems used by multiple countries.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

20

Frainer, André, Raul Primicerio, Susanne Kortsch, Magnus Aune, Andrey V. Dolgov, Maria Fossheim, and Michaela M. Aschan. "Climate-driven changes in functional biogeography of Arctic marine fish communities." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 114, no. 46 (October 31, 2017): 12202–7. http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1706080114.

Full text

Abstract:

Climate change triggers poleward shifts in species distribution leading to changes in biogeography. In the marine environment, fish respond quickly to warming, causing community-wide reorganizations, which result in profound changes in ecosystem functioning. Functional biogeography provides a framework to address how ecosystem functioning may be affected by climate change over large spatial scales. However, there are few studies on functional biogeography in the marine environment, and none in the Arctic, where climate-driven changes are most rapid and extensive. We investigated the impact of climate warming on the functional biogeography of the Barents Sea, which is characterized by a sharp zoogeographic divide separating boreal from Arctic species. Our unique dataset covered 52 fish species, 15 functional traits, and 3,660 stations sampled during the recent warming period. We found that the functional traits characterizing Arctic fish communities, mainly composed of small-sized bottom-dwelling benthivores, are being rapidly replaced by traits of incoming boreal species, particularly the larger, longer lived, and more piscivorous species. The changes in functional traits detected in the Arctic can be predicted based on the characteristics of species expected to undergo quick poleward shifts in response to warming. These are the large, generalist, motile species, such as cod and haddock. We show how functional biogeography can provide important insights into the relationship between species composition, diversity, ecosystem functioning, and environmental drivers. This represents invaluable knowledge in a period when communities and ecosystems experience rapid climate-driven changes across biogeographical regions.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

21

Altieri, Andrew H., Geoffrey C. Trussell, Patrick J. Ewanchuk, Genevieve Bernatchez, and Matthew E. S. Bracken. "Consumers Control Diversity and Functioning of a Natural Marine Ecosystem." PLoS ONE 4, no. 4 (April 22, 2009): e5291. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0005291.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

22

Gamfeldt, Lars, Jonathan S. Lefcheck, Jarrett E. K. Byrnes, Bradley J. Cardinale, J. Emmett Duffy, and John N. Griffin. "Marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning: what's known and what's next?" Oikos 124, no. 3 (November 4, 2014): 252–65. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/oik.01549.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

23

Cheng, Brian S., Andrew H. Altieri, Mark E. Torchin, and Gregory M. Ruiz. "Can marine reserves restore lost ecosystem functioning? A global synthesis." Ecology 100, no. 4 (April 2019): e02617. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ecy.2617.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

24

Biles, C. L., D. M. Paterson, R. B. Ford, M. Solan, and D. G. Raffaelli. "Bioturbation, ecosystem functioning and community structure." Hydrology and Earth System Sciences 6, no. 6 (December 31, 2002): 999–1005. http://dx.doi.org/10.5194/hess-6-999-2002.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract. The effect of community structure on the functioning of the ecosystem is an important issue in ecology due to continuing global species loss. The influence of infaunal community structure on the functioning of marine systems is proposed here to act primarily through bioturbation of the sediment. Nutrient concentration in the water column, generated by release from the sediment, was used as a measure of ecosystem functioning. In situ and laboratory experiments showed a significant difference in nutrient concentrations with different species treatments. Bioturbation profiles showing the incorporation of tracer particles also differed between communities with different dominant species. The behavioural differences between infaunal species, generating different modes and rates of bioturbation, are therefore proposed to influence nutrient release. The presence and quantity of bioturbating infauna also influenced the amount of sediment suspended in the water column. The increase in surface area available for microbial activity may generate an increase in nutrient cycling. Abiotic influences on sediment structure, such as flow, may have a similar effect on nutrient concentration. Annular flumes used in both laboratory and in situ experiments to generate flow conditions produced a significant increase in ammonia (NH4-N) production in macrofaunal treatments. Flow may influence the behaviour of macrofaunal species, causing changes in NH4-N production through modifying bioturbation of the sediment. Keywords: bioturbation, community structure, ccosystem functioning, estuaries, flow, infauna

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

25

Gascuel, Didier, Sylvie Guénette, and Daniel Pauly. "The trophic-level-based ecosystem modelling approach: theoretical overview and practical uses." ICES Journal of Marine Science 68, no. 7 (May 12, 2011): 1403–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsr062.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Gascuel, D., Guénette, S., and Pauly, D. 2011. The trophic-level-based ecosystem modelling approach: theoretical overview and practical uses. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 68: 1403–1416. A trophic-level (TL)-based ecosystem modelling approach is presented, where ecosystem functioning is modelled as a flow of biomass up the foodweb through predation and ontogenetic processes. The approach, based on simple equations derived from fluid dynamics, provides insights into ecosystem functioning and the impact of fishing. A virtual ecosystem is simulated and the model shown to be capable of mimicking the effects of various exploitation patterns on ecosystem biomass expected from the theory. It provides the theoretical basis to explain complex patterns, such as cascading effects, maximum sustainable ecosystem yield, and fishing down the foodweb. The utility of the TL-based approach as a practical tool for determining fishing impacts in specific ecosystems is illustrated using the Guinean ecosystem as a case study, showing how current fishing effort levels led to full exploitation of higher TLs, confirming and generalizing previous single-species assessment results. Finally, catch trophic spectrum analysis is presented to show that it provides reliable biomass estimates when catches per TL and primary production are known.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

26

Gasche, Loïc, and Didier Gascuel. "EcoTroph: a simple model to assess fishery interactions and their impacts on ecosystems." ICES Journal of Marine Science 70, no. 3 (February 19, 2013): 498–510. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fst016.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Gasche, L., and Gascuel, D. 2013. EcoTroph: a simple model to assess fishery interactions and their impacts on ecosystems – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 70: 498–510. The EcoTroph model leaves aside the notion of species, and models the functioning of marine ecosystems as flows of biomass from low to high trophic levels, so as to quantify easily the impacts of fishing at an ecosystem scale. In this paper, based on two case studies we present a new development of the EcoTroph model that is devoted to the analysis of fishery interactions and impacts of fleet segments on ecosystems. First, deriving an EcoTroph model from an Ecopath model of the Guinea ecosystem, the impacts of the artisanal fishery are distinguished from those of the industrial fishery. It appears that these fisheries do not always compete for the same fish groups but that they both strongly impact the ecosystem and moderately impact one another. Then, an EcoTroph model of the Southern Benguela ecosystem is set up, also based on a pre-existing Ecopath model. Two scenarios are simulated: a doubling in the fishing mortality of small pelagics and a doubling in the fishing mortality of hake. An increase in fishing mortality of small pelagics causes a strong decrease in biomass at all trophic levels of the ecosystem, confirming the pivotal role of these “wasp-waist” species in this ecosystem.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

27

Westphal, Hildegard, Gary N. Murphy, Steve S. Doo, Thomas Mann, Alexander Petrovic, Christiane Schmidt, and Marleen Stuhr. "Ecosystem design as an avenue for improving services provided by carbonate producing marine ecosystems." PeerJ 10 (January 20, 2022): e12785. http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.12785.

Full text

Abstract:

Ecosystem Design (ED) is an approach for constructing habitats that places human needs for ecosystem services at the center of intervention, with the overarching goal of establishing self-sustaining habitats which require limited management. This concept was originally developed for use in mangrove ecosystems, and is understandably controversial, as it markedly diverges from other protection approaches that assign human use a minor priority or exclude it. However, the advantage of ED lies within the considered implementation of these designed ecosystems, thus preserving human benefits from potential later disturbances. Here, we outline the concept of ED in tropical carbonate depositional systems and discuss potential applications to aid ecosystem services such as beach nourishment and protection of coastlines and reef islands at risk from environmental and climate change, CO2 sequestration, food production, and tourism. Biological carbonate sediment production is a crucial source of stability of reef islands and reef-rimmed coastlines. Careful implementation of designed carbonate depositional ecosystems could help counterbalance sea-level rise and manage documented erosion effects of coastal constructions. Importantly, adhering to the core ethos of ED, careful dynamic assessments which provide a balanced approach to maximizing ecosystem services (e.g., carbonate production), should identify and avoid any potential damages to existing functioning ecosystems.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

28

Leslie, Heather M., and Megan Palmer. "Examining the Impacts of Tidal Energy Capture from an Ecosystem Services Perspective." Marine Technology Society Journal 49, no. 1 (January 1, 2015): 97–114. http://dx.doi.org/10.4031/mtsj.49.1.6.

Full text

Abstract:

AbstractAs governments from the local to national level have recognized the need to integrate renewable sources into their energy portfolios, there has been a recent push to harness diverse sources of ocean energy, including those generated by tides and waves. Despite the potential benefits, development of these marine and hydrokinetic (MHK) resources has raised concerns in terms of their potential socioeconomic and environmental impacts. An ecosystem services perspective offers a useful means of monitoring how MHKs will affect both people and nature by enabling the identification of the benefits provided by functioning ecosystems to people, including biodiversity, tourism and recreation, and food provision. To illustrate the value of this approach in evaluating the potential impacts of an MHK project, we present the case study of the Muskeget Channel Tidal Energy Project (United States) and identify the types of data and analytical tools that could be used to develop an ecosystem service assessment of MHK development in this study region. To complement this case study, we also reviewed the published literature on tidal energy and other MHK project types, which highlighted how little is known about the ecological effects of MHK development in coastal and marine ecosystems. Integrating ecosystem service knowledge into projects like Muskeget Channel can contribute to more scientifically informed MHK siting processes and more effective, ecosystem-based management of the diverse human activities undertaken in coastal and marine environments.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

29

Küpper, Frithjof C., and Nicholas A. Kamenos. "The future of marine biodiversity and marine ecosystem functioning in UK coastal and territorial waters (including UK Overseas Territories) – with an emphasis on marine macrophyte communities." Botanica Marina 61, no. 6 (December 19, 2018): 521–35. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/bot-2018-0076.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning – including seaweed communities – in the territorial waters of the UK and its Overseas Territories are facing unprecedented pressures. Key stressors are changes in ecosystem functioning due to biodiversity loss caused by ocean warming (species replacement and migration, e.g. affecting kelp forests), sea level rise (e.g. loss of habitats including salt marshes), plastic pollution (e.g. entanglement and ingestion), alien species with increasing numbers of alien seaweeds (e.g. outcompeting native species and parasite transmission), overexploitation (e.g. loss of energy supply further up the food web), habitat destruction (e.g. loss of nursery areas for commercially important species) and ocean acidification (e.g. skeletal weakening of ecosystem engineers including coralline algal beds). These stressors are currently affecting biodiversity, and their impact can be projected for the future. All stressors may act alone or in synergy. Marine biodiversity provides crucial goods and services. Climate change and biodiversity loss pose new challenges for legislation. In particular, there are implications of climate change for the designation and management of Marine Protected Areas and natural carbon storage by marine systems to help control the global climate system. The UK currently has legal obligations to protect biodiversity under international and European law.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

30

Pancucci-Papadopoulou, Maria Antonietta, Dionysios E. Raitsos, and Maria Corsini-Foka. "Biological invasions and climatic warming: implications for south-eastern Aegean ecosystem functioning." Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 92, no. 4 (July 26, 2011): 777–89. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0025315411000981.

Full text

Abstract:

The Aegean Sea, due to the complexity and variety of morphological features, bathymetry, hydrological, hydrodynamic features and climatic characteristics, offers a unique opportunity for monitoring the spreading and/or invasion of alien biota. It is known that the establishment of warm/tropical marine alien species is related mainly to the increase in sea temperature. A significant increase in aliens' number along the southern Aegean (Dodecanese) coasts has been documented in the last twenty years, while their arrival has produced evident changes in coastal ecosystem composition and function. Although the study area acts as a crossroad for tropical alien species introduction in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, a direct attempt to link temperature alterations with new alien species arrivals has not been performed. Satellite and in situ derived marine temperature data showed that the study area has gone through a remarkable warming, while the link between global temperatures and regional ones revealed that this warming is not a local phenomenon but part of global climate trends. Examining relationships between new alien species arrivals data since 1929 against global temperatures, it is shown that their introduction rate parallels the significant increase of marine temperatures. The association of alien introductions with marine water warming, as well as potential effects on ecosystem functioning of selected species is discussed.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

31

Kolding, Jeppe, Alida Bundy, Paul A. M. van Zwieten, and Michael J. Plank. "Fisheries, the inverted food pyramid." ICES Journal of Marine Science 73, no. 6 (December 14, 2015): 1697–713. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsv225.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract A global assessment of fishing patterns and fishing pressure from 110 different Ecopath models, representing marine ecosystems throughout the world and covering the period 1970–2007, show that human exploitation across trophic levels (TLs) is highly unbalanced and skewed towards low productive species at high TLs, which are around two TLs higher than the animal protein we get from terrestrial farming. Overall, exploitation levels from low trophic species were <15% of production, and only 18% of the total number of exploited groups and species were harvested >40% of their production. Generally, well-managed fisheries from temperate ecosystems were more selectively harvested at higher exploitation rates than tropical and upwelling (tropical and temperate) fisheries, resulting in potentially larger long-term changes to the ecosystem structure and functioning. The results indicate a very inefficient utilization of the food energy value of marine production. Rebuilding overfished components of the ecosystem and changing focus to balancing exploitation across a wider range of TLs, i.e. balanced harvesting, has the potential to significantly increase overall catches from global marine fisheries.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

32

Moyo, Ropafadzo, Deena Pillay, and J. Antonio Baeza. "Symbiont-mediated shifts in sandprawn behaviour: Implications for ecosystem functioning in marine soft-sediment ecosystems." Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 486 (January 2017): 296–304. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jembe.2016.10.022.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

33

Beaugrand, Gregory. "Theoretical basis for predicting climate-induced abrupt shifts in the oceans." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 370, no. 1659 (January 5, 2015): 20130264. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2013.0264.

Full text

Abstract:

Among the responses of marine species and their ecosystems to climate change, abrupt community shifts (ACSs), also called regime shifts, have often been observed. However, despite their effects for ecosystem functioning and both provisioning and regulating services, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved remains elusive. This paper proposes a theory showing that some ACSs originate from the interaction between climate-induced environmental changes and the species ecological niche. The theory predicts that a substantial stepwise shift in the thermal regime of a marine ecosystem leads indubitably to an ACS and explains why some species do not change during the phenomenon. It also explicates why the timing of ACSs may differ or why some studies may detect or not detect a shift in the same ecosystem, independently of the statistical method of detection and simply because they focus on different species or taxonomic groups. The present theory offers a way to predict future climate-induced community shifts and their potential associated trophic cascades and amplifications.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

34

Liu, Jiwen, Zhe Meng, Xiaoyue Liu, and Xiao-Hua Zhang. "Microbial assembly, interaction, functioning, activity and diversification: a review derived from community compositional data." Marine Life Science & Technology 1, no. 1 (September 30, 2019): 112–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s42995-019-00004-3.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Microorganisms play crucial roles in maintaining ecosystem stability. The last two decades have witnessed an upsurge in studies on marine microbial community composition using high-throughput sequencing methods. Extensive mining of the compositional data has provided exciting new insights into marine microbial ecology from a number of perspectives. Both deterministic and stochastic processes contribute to microbial community assembly but their relative importance in structuring subcommunities, that are categorized by traits such as abundance, functional type and activity, differs. Through correlation-based network analysis, significant progress has been made in unraveling microbial co-occurrence patterns and dynamics in response to environmental changes. Prediction of ecosystem functioning, based on microbial data, is receiving increasing attention, as closely related microbes often share similar ecological traits and microbial diversity often exhibits significant correlations to ecosystem functioning. The ecosystem functioning is likely executed not by the whole community, but rather by an active fraction of a community, which can be inferred from the marker gene transcription level of community members. Furthermore, the huge amount of microbial community data has significantly expanded the tree of life and illuminated microbial phylogenetic divergence and evolutionary history. This review summarizes important findings in microbial assembly, interaction, functioning, activity and diversification, highlighting the interacting roles of different aspects, derived from community compositional data.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

35

Govers, Laura L., Willem A. Man in ‘t Veld, Johan P. Meffert, Tjeerd J. Bouma, Patricia C. J. van Rijswick, Jannes H. T. Heusinkveld, Robert J. Orth, Marieke M. van Katwijk, and Tjisse van der Heide. "Marine Phytophthora species can hamper conservation and restoration of vegetated coastal ecosystems." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 283, no. 1837 (August 31, 2016): 20160812. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2016.0812.

Full text

Abstract:

Phytophthora species are potent pathogens that can devastate terrestrial plants, causing billions of dollars of damage yearly to agricultural crops and harming fragile ecosystems worldwide. Yet, virtually nothing is known about the distribution and pathogenicity of their marine relatives. This is surprising, as marine plants form vital habitats in coastal zones worldwide (i.e. mangrove forests, salt marshes, seagrass beds), and disease may be an important bottleneck for the conservation and restoration of these rapidly declining ecosystems. We are the first to report on widespread infection of Phytophthora and Halophytophthora species on a common seagrass species, Zostera marina (eelgrass), across the northern Atlantic and Mediterranean. In addition, we tested the effects of Halophytophthora sp. Zostera and Phytophthora gemini on Z. marina seed germination in a full-factorial laboratory experiment under various environmental conditions. Results suggest that Phytophthora species are widespread as we found these oomycetes in eelgrass beds in six countries across the North Atlantic and Mediterranean. Infection by Halophytophthora sp . Zostera, P. gemini , or both, strongly affected sexual reproduction by reducing seed germination sixfold. Our findings have important implications for seagrass ecology, because these putative pathogens probably negatively affect ecosystem functioning, as well as current restoration and conservation efforts.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

36

Lassalle, Géraldine, Jérémy Lobry, François Le Loc'h, Steven Mackinson, Francisco Sanchez, Maciej Tomasz Tomczak, and Nathalie Niquil. "Ecosystem status and functioning: searching for rules of thumb using an intersite comparison of food-web models of Northeast Atlantic continental shelves." ICES Journal of Marine Science 70, no. 1 (November 2, 2012): 135–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fss168.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Lassalle, G., Lobry, J., Le Loc'h, F., Mackinson, S., Sanchez, F., Tomczak, M. T., and Niquil, N. 2013. Ecosystem status and functioning: searching for rules of thumb using an intersite comparison of food-web models of Northeast Atlantic continental shelves. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 70:135–149. This work aimed to provide a better understanding of how the structure and function of marine ecosystems and trophic control mechanisms influence their response to perturbations. Comparative analysis of Ecopath models of four Northeast Atlantic ecosystems was used to search for rules of thumb defining the similarities and differences between them. Ecosystem indicators, related to the ecology of species interactions, were derived from these models and compared. Two main questions were addressed. (i) What are the main energy pathways and mechanisms of control? (ii) Do these ecosystems exhibit the widespread and potentially stabilizing food-web structure such that top predators couple distinct energy pathways? A strong bentho-pelagic coupling operated over the Bay of Biscay Shelf, while energy reached higher trophic levels mostly through pelagic compartments, in northern areas. Zooplankton was demonstrated to be trophically important in all ecosystems, acting as a regulator of the abundance of small pelagic fish. A latitudinal pattern in flow control was highlighted by this analysis, with a significant contribution of top-down effect at higher latitudes. This top-down control of the Baltic Sea, combined with the fact that this ecosystem did not exhibit the potentially stabilizing two-channel structure, suggested a non-stable environment.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

37

Zhao, Li-Xia, Chi Xu, Zhen-Ming Ge, Johan van de Koppel, and Quan-Xing Liu. "The shaping role of self-organization: linking vegetation patterning, plant traits and ecosystem functioning." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 286, no. 1900 (April 10, 2019): 20182859. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2018.2859.

Full text

Abstract:

Self-organized spatial patterns are increasingly recognized for their contribution to ecosystem functioning, in terms of enhanced productivity, ecosystem stability, and species diversity in terrestrial as well as marine ecosystems. Most studies on the impact of spatial self-organization have focused on systems that exhibit regular patterns. However, there is an abundance of patterns in many ecosystems which are not strictly regular. Understanding of how these patterns are formed and how they affect ecosystem function is crucial for the broad acceptance of self-organization as a keystone process in ecological theory. Here, using transplantation experiments in salt marsh ecosystems dominated by Scirpus mariqueter , we demonstrate that scale-dependent feedback is driving irregular spatial pattern formation of vegetation. Field observations and experiments have revealed that this self-organization process affects a range of plant traits, including shoot-to-root ratio, rhizome orientation, rhizome node number, and rhizome length, and enhances vegetation productivity. Moreover, patchiness in self-organized salt marsh vegetation can support a better microhabitat for macrobenthos, promoting their total abundance and spatial heterogeneity of species richness. Our results extend existing concepts of self-organization and its effects on productivity and biodiversity to the spatial irregular patterns that are observed in many systems. Our work also helps to link between the so-far largely unconnected fields of self-organization theory and trait-based, functional ecology.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

38

Green, Dannielle Senga, Bas Boots, David James Blockley, Carlos Rocha, and Richard Thompson. "Impacts of Discarded Plastic Bags on Marine Assemblages and Ecosystem Functioning." Environmental Science & Technology 49, no. 9 (April 20, 2015): 5380–89. http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.5b00277.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

39

Beaugrand, Grégory, Eric Goberville, Christophe Luczak, and Richard R. Kirby. "Marine biological shifts and climate." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 281, no. 1783 (May 22, 2014): 20133350. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2013.3350.

Full text

Abstract:

Phenological, biogeographic and community shifts are among the reported responses of marine ecosystems and their species to climate change. However, despite both the profound consequences for ecosystem functioning and services, our understanding of the root causes underlying these biological changes remains rudimentary. Here, we show that a significant proportion of the responses of species and communities to climate change are deterministic at some emergent spatio-temporal scales, enabling testable predictions and more accurate projections of future changes. We propose a theory based on the concept of the ecological niche to connect phenological, biogeographic and long-term community shifts. The theory explains approximately 70% of the phenological and biogeographic shifts of a key zooplankton Calanus finmarchicus in the North Atlantic and approximately 56% of the long-term shifts in copepods observed in the North Sea during the period 1958–2009.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

40

Solan, Martin, Ellie R. Ward, Christina L. Wood, Adam J. Reed, Laura J. Grange, and Jasmin A. Godbold. "Climate-driven benthic invertebrate activity and biogeochemical functioning across the Barents Sea polar front." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences 378, no. 2181 (August 31, 2020): 20190365. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsta.2019.0365.

Full text

Abstract:

Arctic marine ecosystems are undergoing rapid correction in response to multiple expressions of climate change, but the consequences of altered biodiversity for the sequestration, transformation and storage of nutrients are poorly constrained. Here, we determine the bioturbation activity of sediment-dwelling invertebrate communities over two consecutive summers that contrasted in sea-ice extent along a transect intersecting the polar front. We find a clear separation in community composition at the polar front that marks a transition in the type and amount of bioturbation activity, and associated nutrient concentrations, sufficient to distinguish a southern high from a northern low. While patterns in community structure reflect proximity to arctic versus boreal conditions, our observations strongly suggest that faunal activity is moderated by seasonal variations in sea ice extent that influence food supply to the benthos. Our observations help visualize how a climate-driven reorganization of the Barents Sea benthic ecosystem may be expressed, and emphasize the rapidity with which an entire region could experience a functional transformation. As strong benthic-pelagic coupling is typical across most parts of the Arctic shelf, the response of these ecosystems to a changing climate will have important ramifications for ecosystem functioning and the trophic structure of the entire food web. This article is part of the theme issue ‘The changing Arctic Ocean: consequences for biological communities, biogeochemical processes and ecosystem functioning'.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

41

Prowe, A. E. F., M. Pahlow, S. Dutkiewicz, and A. Oschlies. "Small diversity effects on ocean primary production under environmental change in a diversity-resolving ocean ecosystem model." Biogeosciences Discussions 10, no. 7 (July 31, 2013): 12571–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.5194/bgd-10-12571-2013.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract. Marine ecosystem models used to investigate how global change affects ocean ecosystems and their functioning typically omit pelagic diversity. Diversity, however, can affect functions such as primary production and their sensitivity to environmental changes. Using a global ocean ecosystem model that explicitly resolves phytoplankton diversity within four phytoplankton functional types (PFTs) we investigate the model's ability to capture diversity effects on primary production under environmental change. An idealized scenario with a sudden reduction in vertical mixing causes diversity and primary-production changes that turn out to be largely independent of the number of coexisting phytoplankton types. The model provides a small number of niches with respect to nutrient use in accordance with the PFTs defined in the model, and increasing the number of phytoplankton types increases the resolution within the niches. The variety of traits and trade-offs resolved in the model constrains diversity effects such as niche complementarity, which operate between, but not within PFTs. The number and nature of the niches formulated in the model, for example via trade-offs or different PFTs, thus determines the diversity effects on ecosystem functioning captured in ocean ecosystem models.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

42

Semprucci, Federica, and Roberto Sandulli. "Editorial for Special Issue “Meiofauna Biodiversity and Ecology”." Diversity 12, no. 6 (June 19, 2020): 249. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d12060249.

Full text

Abstract:

Meiofauna are a component of aquatic environments from polar to tropical regions. They may colonize all types of habitats and include very enigmatic and exclusive taxa. The biodiversity of this component in marine ecosystems is far from being accurately estimated, but this would be a new challenge given the importance that meiofaunal components may play in marine ecosystem functioning and processes. This Special Issue collects many interesting topics in research on meiofauna contributing to plugging a gap on several key issues in their biodiversity, distribution, and ecology, from numerous regions that include the USA, Brazil, French Guiana, Costa Rica, Mexico, Cuba, Italy, Kuwait, Vietnam, Madagascar, the Maldives, and South Korea.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

43

Krivoguz, Denis, Sergey Chernyi, and Artur Manukov. "New Approach for Analyzing Marine Ecosystem Structure Using Bayesian Networks." Russian Journal of Earth Sciences 21, no. 6 (November 20, 2021): 1–8. http://dx.doi.org/10.2205/2021es000782.

Full text

Abstract:

Aquatic ecosystems of the Black Sea are complex multiparametric systems with a hierarchical structure. Thus, the main goal of our research was to investigate possibilities of using Bayesian networks to study the structure fo the natural systems in the Black Sea. We used CMEMS Black Sea environmental dataset, which consists of 7 different variables, that, in our opinion, can describe structural relations in the Black Sea ecosystem -- sea surface temperature and salinity, concentrations of nitrates and phosphates, amount of chlorophyll-a and net primary production and also dissolved oxygen concentration. We think, that these variables can generally define interactions in water environment of the Black Sea, organisms, that live there and human activity. As a modelling result, we receive a structure of environmental variables interactions. At the top of this structure is a dissolved oxygen, as a final result of the ecosystem functioning. Further, we think it's more appropriate to use Dynamic Bayesian networks for investigation of spatio-temporal changes to distinguish main drivers of changes and provide more balanced management of natural territories.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

44

Cavanagh, Rachel D., Stefanie Broszeit, Graham M. Pilling, Susie M. Grant, Eugene J. Murphy, and Melanie C. Austen. "Valuing biodiversity and ecosystem services: a useful way to manage and conserve marine resources?" Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 283, no. 1844 (December 14, 2016): 20161635. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2016.1635.

Full text

Abstract:

Valuation of biodiversity and ecosystem services (ES) is widely recognized as a useful, though often controversial, approach to conservation and management. However, its use in the marine environment, hence evidence of its efficacy, lags behind that in terrestrial ecosystems. This largely reflects key challenges to marine conservation and management such as the practical difficulties in studying the ocean, complex governance issues and the historically-rooted separation of biodiversity conservation and resource management. Given these challenges together with the accelerating loss of marine biodiversity (and threats to the ES that this biodiversity supports), we ask whether valuation efforts for marine ecosystems are appropriate and effective. We compare three contrasting systems: the tropical Pacific, Southern Ocean and UK coastal seas. In doing so, we reveal a diversity in valuation approaches with different rates of progress and success. We also find a tendency to focus on specific ES (often the harvested species) rather than biodiversity. In light of our findings, we present a new conceptual view of valuation that should ideally be considered in decision-making. Accounting for the critical relationships between biodiversity and ES, together with an understanding of ecosystem structure and functioning, will enable the wider implications of marine conservation and management decisions to be evaluated. We recommend embedding valuation within existing management structures, rather than treating it as an alternative or additional mechanism. However, we caution that its uptake and efficacy will be compromised without the ability to develop and share best practice across regions.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

45

Moretti, Pier Francesco, and Alice Affatati. "Understanding the Impact of Underwater Noise to Preserve Marine Ecosystems and Manage Anthropogenic Activities." Sustainability 15, no. 13 (June 27, 2023): 10178. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su151310178.

Full text

Abstract:

Policy makers require a knowledge-based support to identify effective interventions for the socio-economic sustainability of human activities at sea. When dealing with anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems, we deal with a complex and faceted system which has high variability in terms of environment, regulation, governance, industrial activities, and geo-political scenarios. We analyzed the conceptual scientific framework adopted to address underwater noise as a polluting component of the marine environment. We identified the scientific paths that can provide useful contributions towards comprehending the impacts on the native ecosystem. In order to furnish relevant clues towards the properties of the interconnection of signals, we briefly reviewed an example from a different discipline (helioseismology). We describe a new approach on how acoustic energy in the sea could be detected and analyzed to understand its role in the functioning of the ecosystem. We propose a change of perspective in the observation strategy of underwater noise, promoting a knowledge transfer from other disciplines, which in turn will enable a better understanding of the system. This will allow researchers and policy-makers to identify feasible and effective solutions to tackle the negative impacts of underwater noise and the conservation of the marine ecosystem.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

46

Berg, Peter, Markus Huettel, Ronnie N. Glud, Clare E. Reimers, and Karl M. Attard. "Aquatic Eddy Covariance: The Method and Its Contributions to Defining Oxygen and Carbon Fluxes in Marine Environments." Annual Review of Marine Science 14, no. 1 (January 3, 2022): 431–55. http://dx.doi.org/10.1146/annurev-marine-042121-012329.

Full text

Abstract:

Aquatic eddy covariance (AEC) is increasingly being used to study benthic oxygen (O2) flux dynamics, organic carbon cycling, and ecosystem health in marine and freshwater environments. Because it is a noninvasive technique, has a high temporal resolution (∼15 min), and integrates over a large area of the seafloor (typically 10–100 m2), it has provided new insights on the functioning of aquatic ecosystems under naturally varying in situ conditions and has given us more accurate assessments of their metabolism. In this review, we summarize biogeochemical, ecological, and biological insightsgained from AEC studies of marine ecosystems. A general finding for all substrates is that benthic O2 exchange is far more dynamic than earlier recognized, and thus accurate mean values can only be obtained from measurements that integrate over all timescales that affect the local O2 exchange. Finally, we highlight new developments of the technique, including measurements of air–water gas exchange and long-term deployments.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

47

Barbraud, Christophe, and Cedric Cotte. "Short Note: Paradigms need hypothesis testing: no evidence for top-down forcing on Adélie and emperor penguin populations." Antarctic Science 20, no. 4 (May 16, 2008): 391–92. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0954102008001260.

Full text

Abstract:

In their recent review article “Paradigm lost, or is top-down forcing no longer significant in the Antarctic marine ecosystem?” Ainley et al. (2007) questioned why Southern Ocean marine ecologists apparently have shifted to a central paradigm where bottom-up forcing by physics and climate change has become the single most important driver of food web dynamics in the Southern Ocean. Ainley et al. (2007) suggest that top-down forcing (forcing by biotic processes) is no longer considered in the interpretation of ecological research results aimed at understanding ecosystem processes of the Southern Ocean. Based on two examples from the literature they suggest that population trends could better be explained by including species interactions in the modelling rather than by changes in climate related physical processes alone. Nicol et al. (2007) questioned the paradigm shift proposed by Ainley et al. (2007) and made a broad review of the ecological research conducted in the Southern Ocean ecosystems. They concluded that there has been considerable research effort into ecosystem interactions over the last 25 years in the Southern Ocean, and that there seems little evidence that there has been an almost complete shift in paradigms; rather both bottom-up and top-down processes are recognized to govern ecosystems functioning.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

48

Brandl, Simon J., Luke Tornabene, Christopher H. R. Goatley, Jordan M. Casey, Renato A. Morais, Isabelle M. Côté, Carole C. Baldwin, Valeriano Parravicini, Nina M. D. Schiettekatte, and David R. Bellwood. "Demographic dynamics of the smallest marine vertebrates fuel coral reef ecosystem functioning." Science 364, no. 6446 (May 23, 2019): 1189–92. http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.aav3384.

Full text

Abstract:

How coral reefs survive as oases of life in low-productivity oceans has puzzled scientists for centuries. The answer may lie in internal nutrient cycling and/or input from the pelagic zone. Integrating meta-analysis, field data, and population modeling, we show that the ocean’s smallest vertebrates, cryptobenthic reef fishes, promote internal reef fish biomass production through extensive larval supply from the pelagic environment. Specifically, cryptobenthics account for two-thirds of reef fish larvae in the near-reef pelagic zone despite limited adult reproductive outputs. This overwhelming abundance of cryptobenthic larvae fuels reef trophodynamics via rapid growth and extreme mortality, producing almost 60% of consumed reef fish biomass. Although cryptobenthics are often overlooked, their distinctive demographic dynamics may make them a cornerstone of ecosystem functioning on modern coral reefs.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

49

Herman, Peter, Richard Warwick, Robert Aller, Christos Arvanitidis, Judi Hewitt, Lucas Stal, and Magda Vincx. "Protecting marine biodiversity to preserve ecosystem functioning: A tribute to Carlo Heip." Journal of Sea Research 98 (April 2015): 1–3. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.seares.2015.03.003.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

50

Fakhrurrozi, Fakhrurrozi, Zihan Yuniar, Muhammad Harun, Wiwid Andriyani Lestariningsih, and Ibadur Rahman. "Community Structure and Health Conditions of Mangrove in Sabu Raijua." Jurnal Biologi Tropis 23, no. 2 (March 7, 2023): 105–11. http://dx.doi.org/10.29303/jbt.v23i2.4626.

Full text

Abstract:

Mangrove ecosystem has an important role for the coastal ecosystem in Sabu Raijua which is included in the TNP Laut Sawu conservation area. Its designation as a water conservation area indicates that the area is an important for the protection of fishery diversity and other marine resources. Mangroves play an important role for the diversity of marine biota because of their role as a breeding ground, foraging, and nursery ground for various types of marine biota. For this reason, the role of mangrove ecosystems as supporting conservation areas is very important. The functioning of the mangrove ecosystem can be seen based on the community structure and ecosystem quality conditions. This study aims to determine the condition of the community structure and health conditions of mangroves on Sabu Raijua Island. The survey location was obtained at 5 observation stations spread across Sabu Island. The results showed that 8 species of mangrove were identified with the dominance of Mangrove Lumnitzera racemosa with an IVI value of 191%. The percentage of canopy cover found ranged from 33 – 58% with an average value of 46%. Density ranges from 23 – 45 ind/plot, with an average of 31 ind/plot. The Mangrove Health Index (MHI) value in was 36.51 ± 14.05% which is included in the Moderate category. The high value of the standard deviation (14.05) indicates that there are still mangrove locations in Sabu Raijua that have poor conditions (Poor).

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

Journal articles on the topic 'Marine ecosystem functioning'

Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles