1. |
- Asplund, Maria. E., 1970, et al.
(author)
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Dynamics and fate of blue carbon in a mangrove-seagrass seascape : influence of landscape configuration and land-use change
- 2021
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In: Landscape Ecology. - : Springer. - 0921-2973 .- 1572-9761. ; 36, s. 1489-1509
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Context Seagrass meadows act as efficient natural carbon sinks by sequestering atmospheric CO2 and through trapping of allochthonous organic material, thereby preserving organic carbon (C-org) in their sediments. Less understood is the influence of landscape configuration and transformation (land-use change) on carbon sequestration dynamics in coastal seascapes across the land-sea interface. Objectives We explored the influence of landscape configuration and degradation of adjacent mangroves on the dynamics and fate of C-org in seagrass habitats. Methods Through predictive modelling, we assessed sedimentary C-org content, stocks and source composition in multiple seascapes (km-wide buffer zones) dominated by different seagrass communities in northwest Madagascar. The study area encompassed seagrass meadows adjacent to intact and deforested mangroves. Results The sedimentary C-org content was influenced by a combination of landscape metrics and inherent habitat plant- and sediment-properties. We found a strong land-to-sea gradient, likely driven by hydrodynamic forces, generating distinct patterns in sedimentary C-org levels in seagrass seascapes. There was higher C-org content and a mangrove signal in seagrass surface sediments closer to the deforested mangrove area, possibly due to an escalated export of C-org from deforested mangrove soils. Seascapes comprising large continuous seagrass meadows had higher sedimentary C-org levels in comparison to more diverse and patchy seascapes. Conclusion Our results emphasize the benefit to consider the influence of seascape configuration and connectivity to accurately assess C-org content in coastal habitats. Understanding spatial patterns of variability and what is driving the observed patterns is useful for identifying carbon sink hotspots and develop management prioritizations.
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2. |
- Asplund, Maria. E., 1970, et al.
(author)
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Methane Emissions From Nordic Seagrass Meadow Sediments
- 2022
-
In: Frontiers in Marine Science. - : Frontiers Media S.A.. - 2296-7745. ; 8
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Shallow coastal soft bottoms are important carbon sinks. Submerged vegetation has been shown to sequester carbon, increase sedimentary organic carbon (C-org) and thus suppress greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The ongoing regression of seagrass cover in many areas of the world can therefore lead to accelerated emission of GHGs. In Nordic waters, seagrass meadows have a high capacity for carbon storage, with some areas being recognized as blue carbon hotspots. To what extent these carbon stocks lead to emission of methane (CH4) is not yet known. We investigated benthic CH4 emission (i.e., net release from the sediment) in relation to seagrass (i.e. Zostera marina) cover and sedimentary C-org content (%) during the warm summer period (when emissions are likely to be highest). Methane exchange was measured in situ with benthic chambers at nine sites distributed in three regions along a salinity gradient from similar to 6 in the Baltic Sea (Finland) to similar to 20 in Kattegat (Denmark) and similar to 26 in Skagerrak (Sweden). The net release of CH4 from seagrass sediments and adjacent unvegetated areas was generally low compared to other coastal habitats in the region (such as mussel banks and wetlands) and to other seagrass areas worldwide. The lowest net release was found in Finland. We found a positive relationship between CH4 net release and sedimentary C-org content in both seagrass meadows and unvegetated areas, whereas no clear relationship between seagrass cover and CH4 net release was observed. Overall, the data suggest that Nordic Zostera marina meadows release average levels of CH4 ranging from 0.3 to 3.0 mu g CH4 m(-2) h(-1), which is at least 12-78 times lower (CO2 equivalents) than their carbon accumulation rates previously estimated from seagrass meadows in the region, thereby not hampering their role as carbon sinks. Thus, the relatively weak CH4 emissions from Nordic Z. marina meadows will not outweigh their importance as carbon sinks under present environmental conditions.
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3. |
- Dahl, Martin, 1984-, et al.
(author)
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A 2,000-Year Record of Eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) : Colonization Shows Substantial Gains in Blue Carbon Storage and Nutrient Retention
- 2024
-
In: Global Biogeochemical Cycles. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 0886-6236 .- 1944-9224. ; 38:3
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Assessing historical environmental conditions linked to habitat colonization is important for understanding long-term resilience and improving conservation and restoration efforts. Such information is lacking for the seagrass Zostera marina, an important foundation species across cold-temperate coastal areas of the Northern Hemisphere. Here, we reconstructed environmental conditions during the last 14,000 years from sediment cores in two eelgrass (Z. marina) meadows along the Swedish west coast, with the main aims to identify the time frame of seagrass colonization and describe subsequent biogeochemical changes following establishment. Based on vegetation proxies (lipid biomarkers), eelgrass colonization occurred about 2,000 years ago after geomorphological changes that resulted in a shallow, sheltered environment favoring seagrass growth. Seagrass establishment led to up to 20- and 24-fold increases in sedimentary carbon and nitrogen accumulation rates, respectively. This demonstrates the capacity of seagrasses as efficient ecosystem engineers and their role in global change mitigation and adaptation through CO2 removal, and nutrient and sediment retention. By combining regional climate projections and landscape models, we assessed potential climate change effects on seagrass growth, productivity and distribution until 2100. These predictions showed that seagrass meadows are mostly at risk from increased sedimentation and hydrodynamic changes, while the impact from sea level rise alone might be of less importance in the studied area. This study showcases the positive feedback between seagrass colonization and environmental conditions, which holds promise for successful conservation and restoration efforts aimed at supporting climate change mitigation and adaptation, and the provision of several other crucial ecosystem services. © 2024. The Authors.
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4. |
- Dahl, Martin, et al.
(author)
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A temporal record of microplastic pollution in Mediterranean seagrass soils
- 2021
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In: Environmental Pollution. - : Elsevier. - 0269-7491 .- 1873-6424. ; 273
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Plastic pollution is emerging as a potential threat to the marine environment. In the current study, we selected seagrass meadows, known to efficiently trap organic and inorganic particles, to investigate the concentrations and dynamics of microplastics in their soil. We assessed microplastic contamination and accumulation in 210Pb dated soil cores collected in Posidonia oceanica meadows at three locations along the Spanish Mediterranean coast, with two sites located in the Almería region (Agua Amarga and Roquetas) and one at Cabrera Island (Santa Maria). Almería is known for its intense agricultural industry with 30 000 ha of plastic-covered greenhouses, while the Cabrera Island is situated far from urban areas. Microplastics were extracted using enzymatic digestion and density separation. The particles were characterized by visual identification and with Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and related to soil age-depth chronologies. Our findings showed that the microplastic contamination and accumulation was negligible until the mid-1970s, after which plastic particles increased dramatically, with the highest concentrations of microplastic particles (MPP) found in the recent (since 2012) surface soil of Agua Amarga (3819 MPP kg-1), followed by the top-most layers of the soil of the meadows in Roquetas (2173 kg-1) and Santa Maria (68-362 kg-1). The highest accumulation rate was seen in the Roquetas site (8832 MPP m-2 yr-1). The increase in microplastics in the seagrass soil was associated to land-use change following the intensification of the agricultural industry in the area, with a clear relationship between the development of the greenhouse industry in Almería and the concentration of microplastics in the historical soil record. This study shows a direct linkage between intense anthropogenic activity, an extensive use of plastics and high plastic contamination in coastal marine ecosystems such as seagrass meadows. We highlight the need of proper waste management to protect the coastal environment from continuous pollution.
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5. |
- Dahl, Martin, et al.
(author)
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Effects of seagrass overgrazing on sediment erosion and carbon sink capacity : Current understanding and future priorities
- 2021
-
In: Limnology and Oceanography Letters. - : Wiley. - 2378-2242. ; 6:6, s. 309-319
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We searched the literature for experimental and observational studies assessing the effects of seagrass overgrazing on erosion of sediment and sedimentary organic carbon (SOC) and found that most studies reported a significant impact, likely caused by a cascading effect (i.e., seagrass shoot loss -> belowground biomass degradation -> sediment destabilization or SOC erosion). However, there appears to be a clear lack of knowledge on the extent and mechanisms behind SOC erosion in seagrass meadows and we highlight the need for research to (1) define spatial and temporal scales of occurrence; (2) assess the influence of belowground biomass degradation, sediment characteristics, and hydrodynamic exposure on sediment stabilization; and (3) estimate the greenhouse gas emission after a disturbance. Such information would help coastal resource managers to address the causes and effects of SOC loss and sediment erosion when evaluating impacts of global change on coastal ecosystems.
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6. |
- Dahl, Martin, et al.
(author)
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Effects of shading and simulated grazing on carbon sequestration in a tropical seagrass meadow
- 2016
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In: Journal of Ecology. - : Wiley. - 0022-0477 .- 1365-2745. ; 104:3, s. 654-664
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. There is an ongoing world-wide decline of seagrass ecosystems, one of the world's most efficient carbon sink habitats. In spite of this, there is a clear lack of studies experimentally testing the effects of anthropogenic disturbances on carbon sequestration of seagrass systems. 2. We assessed the effects of two disturbances of global concern on the carbon sink function in a five-month in situ experiment within a tropical seagrass (Thalassia hemprichii) meadow by testing the impacts of shading and simulated grazing at two levels of intensity using shading cloths and clipping of shoot tissue. We measured the effects of these disturbances on the carbon sequestration process by assessing the net community production (NCP), carbon and nitrogen content in tissue biomass, and organic matter and THAA (total hydrolysable amino acids) in the sediment down to 40 cm depth. 3. Treatments of high-intensity shading and high-intensity clipping were similarly impacted and showed a significantly lower NCP and carbon content in the below-ground biomass compared to the seagrass control. No significant effects were seen in organic carbon, total nitrogen, C:N ratio and THAA in the sediment for the seagrass treatments. However, both clipping treatments showed different depth profiles of carbon and THAA compared to the seagrass control, with lower organic carbon and THAA content in the surface sediment. This can be explained by the clipping of shoot tissue causing a less efficient trapping of allochthonous carbon and reduced input of shredded seagrass leaves to the detritus sediment layer. In the clipping plots, erosion of the surface sediment occurred, which was also most likely caused by the removal of above-ground plant biomass. 4. Synthesis. Our findings show that during the course of this experiment, there were no impacts on the sedimentary carbon while the high-intensity disturbances caused a clear depletion of carbon biomass and reduced the seagrass meadow's capacity to sequester carbon. From a long-term perspective, the observed effect on the carbon biomass pool in the high-intensity treatments and the sediment erosion in the clipping plots may lead to loss in sedimentary carbon.
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7. |
- Dahl, Martin, 1984-, et al.
(author)
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First assessment of seagrass carbon accumulation rates in Sweden: A field study from a fjord system at the Skagerrak coast
- 2023
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In: PLoS Climate. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 2767-3200. ; 2:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seagrass meadows are globally important blue carbon sinks. In northern cold-temperate regions, eelgrass (Zostera marina) is the dominant seagrass species, and although their sedimentary carbon stocks have been quantified across regions, information regarding the CO2 withdrawal capacity as carbon sinks remains scarce. Here we assessed the carbon (Corg) accumulation rates (CARs) and stocks as well as the organic matter sources in five seagrass meadows in the Gullmar Fjord area on the Swedish Skagerrak coast. We found that the mean (±SD) CAR was 14 ± 3 g Corg m-2 yr-1 over the last ~120–140 years (corresponding to a yearly uptake of 52.4 ± 12.6 g CO2 m-2). The carbon sink capacity is in line with other Z. marina areas but relatively low compared to other seagrass species and regions globally. About half of the sedimentary carbon accumulation (7.1 ± 3.3 g Corg m-2 yr-1) originated from macroalgae biomass, which highlights the importance of non-seagrass derived material for the carbon sink function of seagrass meadows in the area. The Corg stocks were similar among sites when comparing at a standardized depth of 50 cm (4.6–5.9 kg Corg m-2), but showed large variation when assessed for the total extent of the cores (ranging from 0.7 to 20.6 kg Corg m-2 for sediment depths of 11 to at least 149 cm). The low sediment accretion rates (1.18–1.86 mm yr-1) and the relatively thick sediment deposits (with a maximum of >150 cm of sediment depth) suggests that the carbon stocks have likely been accumulated for an extended period of time, and that the documented loss of seagrass meadows in the Swedish Skagerrak region and associated erosion of the sediment could potentially have offset centuries of carbon sequestration.
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8. |
- Dahl, Martin, et al.
(author)
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High Seasonal Variability in Sediment Carbon Stocks of Cold-Temperate Seagrass Meadows
- 2020
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In: Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences. - 2169-8953 .- 2169-8961. ; 125:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ©2020. American Geophysical Union. All Rights Reserved. Seagrass meadows have a high ability to capture and store atmospheric CO2 in the plant biomass and underlying sediment and thereby function as efficient carbon sinks. The seagrass Zostera marina is a common species in the temperate Northern Hemisphere, a region with strong seasonal variations in climate. How seasonality affects carbon storage capacity in seagrass meadows is largely unknown, and therefore, in this study, we aimed to assess variations in sedimentary total organic carbon (TOC) content over a 1-year cycle in seagrass meadows on the Swedish west coast. The TOC was measured in two Z. marina sites, one wave exposed and one sheltered, and at two depths (1.5 and 4 m) within each site, every second month from August 2015 to June 2016. We found a strong seasonal variation in carbon density, with a peak in early summer (June), and that the TOC was negatively correlated to the net community production of the meadows, presumably related to organic matter degradation. There was seasonal variation in TOC content at all sediment sections, indicating that the carbon content down to 30 cm is unstable on a seasonal scale and therefore likely not a long-term carbon sink. The yearly mean carbon stocks were substantially higher in the sheltered meadow (3,965 and 3,465 g m−2) compared to the exposed one (2,712 and 1,054 g m−2) with similar seasonal variation. Due to the large intra-annual variability in TOC content, seasonal variation should be considered in carbon stock assessments and management for cold-temperate seagrass meadows.
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9. |
- Dahl, Martin, 1984-, et al.
(author)
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Impacts of land-use change and urban development on carbon sequestration in tropical seagrass meadow sediments
- 2022
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In: Marine Environmental Research. - : Elsevier BV. - 0141-1136 .- 1879-0291. ; 176
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seagrass meadows store significant carbon stocks at a global scale, but land-use change and other anthropogenic activities can alter the natural process of organic carbon (Corg) accumulation. Here, we assessed the carbon accumulation history of two seagrass meadows in Zanzibar (Tanzania) that have experienced different degrees of disturbance. The meadow at Stone Town has been highly exposed to urban development during the 20th century, while the Mbweni meadow is located in an area with relatively low impacts but historical clearing of adjacent mangroves. The results showed that the two sites had similar sedimentary Corg accumulation rates (22–25 g m−2 yr−1) since the 1940s, while during the last two decades (∼1998 until 2018) they exhibited 24–30% higher accumulation of Corg, which was linked to shifts in Corg sources. The increase in the δ13C isotopic signature of sedimentary Corg (towards a higher seagrass contribution) at the Stone Town site since 1998 points to improved seagrass meadow conditions and Corg accumulation capacity of the meadow after the relocation of a major sewage outlet in the mid–1990s. In contrast, the decrease in the δ13C signatures of sedimentary Corg in the Mbweni meadow since the early 2010s was likely linked to increased Corg run-off of mangrove/terrestrial material following mangrove deforestation. This study exemplifies two different pathways by which land-based human activities can alter the carbon storage capacity of seagrass meadows (i.e. sewage waste management and mangrove deforestation) and showcases opportunities for management of vegetated coastal Corg sinks.
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10. |
- Dahl, Martin, et al.
(author)
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Impacts of land-use change and urban development on tropical seagrass carbon sinks
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Seagrass meadows store significant carbon stocks at a global scale, but land-use change and anthropogenic activities can alter the natural process of organic carbon (Corg) accumulation. Here, we assessed the carbon accumulation history of two seagrass meadows in Zanzibar (Tanzania) that experienced different degrees of disturbance. The meadow at Stone Town has been highly exposed to urban development during the 20th century, while the Mbweni meadow is located in an area with relatively low impacts but historical clearing of adjacent mangroves. The results showed that the two sites had similar sedimentary Corg accumulation rates (22–25 g m-2 yr-1) since the 1940s, while during the last two decades (~1998 until 2018) they exhibited 24–30% higher accumulation of Corg, which was linked to shifts in Corg sources. The increase in the δ13C isotopic signature of sedimentary Corg (towards a higher seagrass contribution) at the Stone Town site since 1998 points to improved seagrass meadow conditions and Corg accumulation capacity of the meadow after the relocation of a major sewage outlet in the mid–1990s. In contrast, the decrease in the δ13C signatures of sediment Corg in the Mbweni meadow since the early 2010s was likely linked to Corg transport from mangrove/terrestrial material run-off following the mangrove deforestation. This study exemplifies two different pathways by which land-based human activities can alter the carbon storage capacity of seagrass meadows (i.e. sewage waste management and mangrove deforestation) and showcases opportunities for management of vegetated coastal Corg sinks
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11. |
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12. |
- Dahl, Martin, et al.
(author)
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Increased current flow enhances the risk of organic carbon loss from Zostera marina sediments: Insights from a flume experiment
- 2018
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In: Limnology and Oceanography. - : Wiley. - 1939-5590 .- 0024-3590. ; 63:6, s. 2793-2805
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Hydrodynamic processes are important for carbon storage dynamics in seagrass meadows, where periods of increased hydrodynamic activity could result in erosion and the loss of buried carbon. To estimate hydrodynamic impacts on the resuspension of organic carbon (Corg) in seagrass-vegetated sediments, we exposed patches (0.35 × 0.35 cm) of Zostera marina (with different biomass, shoot densities, and sediment properties) to gradually increased unidirectional (current) flow velocities ranging from low (5 cm s−1) to high (26 cm s−1) in a hydraulic flume with a standardized water column height of 0.12 m. We found that higher flow velocities substantially increased (by more than threefold) the proportion of Corg in the suspended sediment resulting in a loss of up to 5.5% ± 1.7% (mean ± SE) Corg from the surface sediment. This was presumably due to increased surface erosion of larger, carbon-rich detritus particles. Resuspension of Corg in the seagrass plots correlated with sediment properties (i.e., bulk density, porosity, and sedimentary Corg) and seagrass plant structure (i.e., belowground biomass). However, shoot density had no influence on Corg resuspension (comparing unvegetated sediments with sparse, moderate, and dense seagrass bed types), which could be due to the relatively low shoot density in the experimental setup (with a maximum of 253 shoots m−2) reflecting natural conditions of the Swedish west coast. The projected increase in the frequency and intensity of hydrodynamic forces due to climate change could thus negatively affect the function of seagrass meadows as natural carbon sinks. © 2018 The Authors. Limnology and Oceanography published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography
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13. |
- Dahl, Martin, 1984-
(author)
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Natural and human-induced carbon storage variability in seagrass meadows
- 2017
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Seagrasses are considered highly important CO2 sinks, with the capacity to store substantial quantities of organic carbon in the living biomass and sediments, and thereby acting as a buffer against climate change. In this thesis, I have studied carbon storage variability in temperate and tropical seagrass habitats and identified factors influencing this variation. In addition, as seagrass areas are decreasing worldwide, I have assessed effects of different anthropogenic disturbances on carbon sequestration processes. The result from this thesis showed that there was a large variation in carbon storage within and among temperate, tropical and subtropical regions. The highest organic carbon stocks were found in temperate Zostera marina meadows, which also showed a larger carbon storage variability than the subtropical and tropical seagrass habitats. The tropical and subtropical seagrass meadows had inorganic carbon pools exceeding the organic carbon accumulation, which could potentially weakens the carbon sink function. The variability in organic carbon stocks was generally strongly related to the sediment characteristics of the seagrass habitats. In Z. marina meadows, the strength of the carbon sink function was mainly driven by the settings of the local environment, which in turn indicates that depositional areas will likely have higher organic carbon stocks than more exposed meadows, while in the tropics seagrass biomass was also influencing sedimentary carbon levels. Furthermore, locations with large areas of seagrass were associated with higher carbon storage in tropical and subtropical regions, which could be related to increased accumulation of both autochthonous and allochthonous carbon. In an in situ experiment, impacts on carbon sequestration processes from two types of disturbances (with two levels of intensity) were tested by simulating reduced water quality (by shading) and high grazing pressure (through removal of shoot biomass). At high disturbance intensity, reductions in the net community production and seagrass biomass carbon were observed, which negatively affected carbon sequestration and could impact the sedimentary organic carbon stocks over time. In the treatments with simulated grazing, erosion was also seen, likely due to an increase in near-bed hydrodynamics. When experimentally testing effects of increased current flow on organic carbon suspension in Z. marina sediment, a ten-fold release of organic carbon with higher current flow velocities was measured, which resulted in an increase in the proportion of suspended organic carbon by three times in relation to other sediment particles. Therefore, periods with enhanced hydrodynamic activity could result in a removal of organic carbon and thereby likely reduce the seagrass meadows’ capacity to store carbon. The findings of this thesis add to the emerging picture that there is a large natural variability in seagrasses’ capacity to store carbon, and highlight how human-induced disturbances could negatively affect the carbon sink function in seagrass meadows.
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14. |
- Dahl, Martin, et al.
(author)
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Sediment Properties as Important Predictors of Carbon Storage in Zostera marina Meadows : A Comparison of Four European Areas
- 2016
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In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 11:12
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seagrass ecosystems are important natural carbon sinks but their efficiency varies greatly depending on species composition and environmental conditions. What causes this variation is not fully known and could have important implications for management and protection of the seagrass habitat to continue to act as a natural carbon sink. Here, we assessed sedimentary organic carbon in Zostera marina meadows (and adjacent unvegetated sediment) in four distinct areas of Europe (Gullmar Fjord on the Swedish Skagerrak coast, Asko in the Baltic Sea, Sozopol in the Black Sea and Ria Formosa in southern Portugal) down to similar to 35 cm depth. We also tested how sedimentary organic carbon in Z. marina meadows relates to different sediment characteristics, a range of seagrass-associated variables and water depth. The seagrass carbon storage varied greatly among areas, with an average organic carbon content ranging from 2.79 +/- 0.50% in the Gullmar Fjord to 0.17 +/- 0.02% in the area of Sozopol. We found that a high proportion of fine grain size, high porosity and low density of the sediment is strongly related to high carbon content in Z. marina sediment. We suggest that sediment properties should be included as an important factor when evaluating high priority areas in management of Z. marina generated carbon sinks.
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15. |
- Dahl, Martin, et al.
(author)
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The influence of hydrodynamic exposure on carbon storage and nutrient retention in eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) meadows on the Swedish Skagerrak coast
- 2020
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In: Scientific Reports. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 2045-2322. ; 10:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Cold-temperate seagrass (Zostera marina) meadows provide several important ecosystem services, including trapping and storage of sedimentary organic carbon and nutrients. However, seagrass meadows are rapidly decreasing worldwide and there is a pressing need for protective management of the meadows and the organic matter sinks they create. Their carbon and nutrient storage potential must be properly evaluated, both at present situation and under future climate change impacts. In this study, we assessed the effect of wave exposure on sedimentary carbon and nitrogen accumulation using existing data from 53 Z. marina meadows at the Swedish west coast. We found that meadows with higher hydrodynamic exposure had larger absolute organic carbon and nitrogen stocks (at 0-25 cm depth). This can be explained by a hydrodynamically induced sediment compaction in more exposed sites, resulting in increased sediment density and higher accumulation (per unit volume) of sedimentary organic carbon and nitrogen. With higher sediment density, the erosion threshold is assumed to increase, and as climate change-induced storms are predicted to be more common, we suggest that wave exposed meadows can be more resilient toward storms and might therefore be even more important as carbon- and nutrient sinks in the future.
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16. |
- Deyanova, Diana, et al.
(author)
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Contribution of seagrass plants to CO2 capture in a tropical seagrass meadow under experimental disturbance
- 2017
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In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 12:7
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Coastal vegetative habitats are known to be highly productive environments with a high ability to capture and store carbon. During disturbance this important function could be compromised as plant photosynthetic capacity, biomass, and/or growth are reduced. To evaluate effects of disturbance on CO2 capture in plants we performed a five-month manipulative experiment in a tropical seagrass (Thalassia hemprichii) meadow exposed to two intensity levels of shading and simulated grazing. We assessed CO2 capture potential (as net CO2 fixation) using areal productivity calculated from continuous measurements of diel photosynthetic rates, and estimates of plant morphology, biomass and productivity/respiration (P/R) ratios (from the literature). To better understand the plant capacity to coping with level of disturbance we also measured plant growth and resource allocation. We observed substantial reductions in seagrass areal productivity, biomass, and leaf area that together resulted in a negative daily carbon balance in the two shading treatments as well as in the high-intensity simulated grazing treatment. Additionally, based on the concentrations of soluble carbohydrates and starch in the rhizomes, we found that the main reserve sources for plant growth were reduced in all treatments except for the low-intensity simulated grazing treatment. If permanent, these combined adverse effects will reduce the plants' resilience and capacity to recover after disturbance. This might in turn have long-lasting and devastating effects on important ecosystem functions, including the carbon sequestration capacity of the seagrass system.
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17. |
- Deyanova, Diana, et al.
(author)
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Plant- and habitat productivity in a temperate seagrass system
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Seagrass meadows are highly productive coastal habitats. Yet, little is known about the contribution of seagrass plants to the total seagrass habitat. To clarify the particular role of the seagrass plants for carbon capture in temperate environments, a one-year study was performed in seagrass meadows on the Swedish west coast. We aimed to assess the link between the net primary productivity of seagrass plants per se, the net production of the seagrass community and the net production of the entire system. To be able to predict effects of environmental changes on seagrass productivity, results were related to changes in water temperature, oxygen levels, light conditions and ice cover. Results showed large variations in net plant productivity across seasons, generally following light- and temperature variability, and ranging from very high (20.03 g C m-2 24h-1 ) in the summer to negative rates (-1.60 g C m-2 24h-1 ) in the least productive winter month. The patterns of variability in seagrass productivity were also influenced by depth- and site-specific dynamics in biomass. The high respiration of the benthic community did largely outbalance the productivity of the seagrass plants, probably as an effect of fast turnover rates. This resulted in an overall yearly low positive carbon balance of the entire seagrass system. Overall, the findings show that seagrass plants contribute substantially to the carbon capture in temperate seagrass habitats, but also that the rate of community respiration appears to be highly dependent on the degree of how much detritus material that is retained within the system. Thus, even though these seagrass systems are highly productive and may contain a large carbon stock, seagrass productivity per se seems not to be the most important determining factor for their carbon sink function.
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18. |
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19. |
- Gullström, Martin, et al.
(author)
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Blue Carbon Storage in Tropical Seagrass Meadows Relates to Carbonate Stock Dynamics, Plant–Sediment Processes, and Landscape Context : Insights from the Western Indian Ocean
- 2018
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In: Ecosystems (New York. Print). - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1432-9840 .- 1435-0629. ; 21:3, s. 551-566
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Globally, seagrass ecosystems are considered major blue carbon sinks and thus indirect contributors to climate change mitigation. Quantitative estimates and multi-scale appraisals of sources that underlie long-term storage of sedimentary carbon are vital for understanding coastal carbon dynamics. Across a tropical–subtropical coastal continuum in the Western Indian Ocean, we estimated organic (Corg) and inorganic (Ccarb) carbon stocks in seagrass sediment. Quantified levels and variability of the two carbon stocks were evaluated with regard to the relative importance of environmental attributes in terms of plant–sediment properties and landscape configuration. The explored seagrass habitats encompassed low to moderate levels of sedimentary Corg (ranging from 0.20 to 1.44% on average depending on species- and site-specific variability) but higher than unvegetated areas (ranging from 0.09 to 0.33% depending on site-specific variability), suggesting that some of the seagrass areas (at tropical Zanzibar in particular) are potentially important as carbon sinks. The amount of sedimentary inorganic carbon as carbonate (Ccarb) clearly corresponded to Corg levels, and as carbonates may represent a carbon source, this could diminish the strength of seagrass sediments as carbon sinks in the region. Partial least squares modelling indicated that variations in sedimentary Corg and Ccarb stocks in seagrass habitats were primarily predicted by sediment density (indicating a negative relationship with the content of carbon stocks) and landscape configuration (indicating a positive effect of seagrass meadow area, relative to the area of other major coastal habitats, on carbon stocks), while seagrass structural complexity also contributed, though to a lesser extent, to model performance. The findings suggest that accurate carbon sink assessments require an understanding of plant–sediment processes as well as better knowledge of how sedimentary carbon dynamics are driven by cross-habitat links and sink–source relationships in a scale-dependent landscape context, which should be a priority for carbon sink conservation.
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20. |
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21. |
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22. |
- Gullström, Martin, et al.
(author)
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Övervakning av makrovegetation i Bottniska viken– en vägledning
- 2009
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Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- SammanfattningVi rekommenderar att dyktransekter enligt den nationella undersökningstypenförVegetationsklädda bottnar, ostkust (Naturvårdsverket 2004) används vidövervakning av makrovegetation. Metoden ger möjlighet till hög taxonomisknoggrannhet och kan svara upp mot i stort sett alla förvaltningsuppdrag. Denfungerar bra för att beskriva djuputbredning och täckningsgrad av arter.Skattningarna kan även omräknas till täckningsindex. Tyvärr finns det ingenfullständig metodbeskrivning. För att säkerställa kvalitén i nationella databaseroch underlätta upphandling av inventeringsuppdrag för myndigheterna bör entydlig metodbeskrivning omgående tas fram. Av samma orsaker behövs ävenmetodikkurser anordnas och i kombination med kontinuerlig interkalibrering avtäckningsgradsskattning och artbestämning kan en ackreditering av utföraregenomföras.När det gäller att designa ett miljöövervakningsprogram så bör syftet medövervakningen först definieras. Att övervaka klimatförändringen, övergödningeneller följa upp ekologisk status i vattenförekomster styr hur programmet sättsupp. Ett brett program med transekter spridda från inner till ytter skärgård dvs. iskärgårdsgradienten och en metod som har bra taxonomisk (och rumslig)upplösning ger möjlighet att nyttja data för fler syften.Vår rekommendation när det gäller att designa ett övervakningsprogram för attfölja upp storskaliga förändringar är att inte lägga stationerna alltför nära lokalautsläppskällor. Om stationerna ska användas som referens till recipienter ska dedock inte placeras för långt ut, så att de enbart beskriver förhållanden längst ut iskärgårdsgradienten.Vi rekommenderar att programmet bör följa upp flera responsvariabler t.ex.djuputbredning av arter, täckningsgrad, och diversitet. På detta sätt ökar chansenatt programmet fångar upp framtida, okända förändringar. Det är också enförutsättning för att nyttja transekterna för fler förvaltningssyften.Bottensubstrat är en av de faktorer som har störst betydelse förmakrovegetationens sammansättning och täckningsgrad. Det är viktigt att tahänsyn till detta när framtida analyser av data görs. Det är troligtvis en mycketviktig faktor när det gäller att stratifiera placering och bestämma antalet stationervid uppbyggnad av ett övervakningsprogram. I Bottniska viken är det mycketvanligt med transekter med blandade substrat eller att transekterna relativt snabbtövergår från hårdbotten till mjukbotten eftersom kusten är på många ställenflack. Detta är probelmatiskt för övervakning av ekologisk status kopplat tilldjuputbredning av arter.Våra analyser av djuputbredning och täckningsindex inom fyra skärgårdsområdenvisar att man med fördel kan stratifiera sina provpunkter utifrånvågexponering. Syftet med undersökningen bestämmer dock var i skärgårdendessa lokaler bör ligga.
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23. |
- Ismail, Rashid O., 1986-, et al.
(author)
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Effects of calcification on air-water CO2 fluxes in tropical seagrass meadows : A mesocosm experiment
- 2023
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In: Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0022-0981 .- 1879-1697. ; 561
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seagrass meadows deliver a range of ecosystem services, where one of the more important is the capacity to store carbon and serve as sinks for atmospheric carbon dioxide. The capacity of seagrass meadows for carbon storage might, however, be modified and complicated by several factors; one important factor is the possible effects of calcification within the meadows. In tropical areas, seagrass meadows can contain high proportions of calcareous organisms, which through their calcification may cause release of CO2. To study this aspect of the CO2 balance within tropical seagrass systems, we investigated the air-water CO2 flux in seagrass mesocosms with different plant community compositions, i.e. mixtures of seagrass and calcifying macroalgae, having similar overall photosynthetic oxygen evolution rates. The measured CO2 fluxes changed both in rate and direction over the day and were significantly related to plant community composition. Downward fluxes of CO2 were found only over vegetation with high proportion of seagrass and in the afternoon, whereas occurrence of calcifying algae appeared to reverse the flow. A partial least squares (PLS) regression model indicated that pH, pCO2 and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) were the primary environmental variables predicting the CO2 fluxes. Our findings show that algal calcification might partly counteract the carbon sequestration in seagrass meadows.
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24. |
- Ismail, Rashid O., 1986-, et al.
(author)
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Plant productivity, community composition and carbon import are key drivers of air-water CO2 fluxes in a tropical seagrass meadow : implications for blue carbon science
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Seagrass meadows are considered efficient sinks of Blue Carbon. They capture CO2 by an effective photosynthetic uptake as well as by trapping large amounts of carbon originating from adjacent systems, which in turn can be stored in the sediments. Such import of allochthonous carbon will be partly degraded in the system, increasing the overall community respiration and thus CO2 production and at the same time add to sediment carbon accumulation. Additionally, tropical seagrass meadows can contain a high proportion of calcareous organisms, which (by the pH suppressing the effect of calcification) can further increase the CO2 partial pressure of the seawater if resulting CO2 is not internally used. The scarce literature on actual CO2 fluxes over submerged vegetation in coastal marine areas is reporting partly contrasting data over how coastal areas in general shall be counted in carbon budgets. To better understand the CO2 cycle within a tropical seagrass system, we constructed a simple carbon flux simulation model in which we evaluated the possible fluxes of carbon within the meadow and with regards to the surrounding seascape. We measured air-water CO2 fluxes in seagrass meadows with different plant community compositions (i.e. mixtures of seagrass and calcifying macroalgae) using field measurements, estimated water column productivity, and extracted data for primary productivity, plant composition, and calcification from previous studies in the same area and, traced organic carbon (Corg) sources in seagrass sediment by measuring bulk stable isotope signals of carbon (δ13C) in order to feed the model with the best available data. When needed we supplemented with published data from other regions. The measured fluxes indicated a net efflux of CO2 over the meadows, from sea to air. The fluxes changed both in rate and direction over the day, and were significantly related to plant community composition and environmental conditions, where pH had the strongest influence on CO2 fluxes. Downward fluxes were found only over vegetation in the afternoon. The isotope signals of carbon revealed a strong input of carbon from other habitats. The outcome of the simulation model suggests that highly productive seagrass meadows can generate a net CO2 flux from the water column to the atmosphere since the plants’ demand for CO2 to a large extent is covered by a major internal cycling of CO2, which is from degradation of autochthonous and allochthonous material as well as from CO2 released from calcification. The calculated accumulation3of sedimentary carbon is however larger than the flow to the atmosphere, indicating that these systems can still be carbon sinks.
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25. |
- Krause-Jensen, D, et al.
(author)
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Nordic Blue Carbon Ecosystems: Status and Outlook
- 2022
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In: Frontiers in Marine Science. - : Frontiers Media SA. - 2296-7745. ; 9
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Vegetated coastal and marine habitats in the Nordic region include salt marshes, eelgrass meadows and, in particular, brown macroalgae (kelp forests and rockweed beds). Such habitats contribute to storage of organic carbon (Blue Carbon – BC) and support coastal protection, biodiversity and water quality. Protection and restoration of these habitats therefore have the potential to deliver climate change mitigation and co-benefits. Here we present the existing knowledge on Nordic BC habitats in terms of habitat area, C-stocks and sequestration rates, co-benefits, policies and management status to inspire a coherent Nordic BC roadmap. The area extent of BC habitats in the region is incompletely assessed, but available information sums up to 1,440 km2 salt marshes, 1,861 (potentially 2,735) km2 seagrass meadows, and 16,532 km2 (potentially 130,735 km2, including coarse Greenland estimates) brown macroalgae, yielding a total of 19,833 (potentially 134,910) km2. Saltmarshes and seagrass meadows have experienced major declines over the past century, while macroalgal trends are more diverse. Based on limited salt marsh data, sediment C-stocks average 3,311 g Corg m-2 (top 40-100 cm) and sequestration rates average 142 g Corg m-2 yr-1. Eelgrass C-stocks average 2,414 g Corg m-2 (top 25 cm) and initial data for sequestration rates range 5-33 g Corg m-2, quantified for one Greenland site and one short term restoration. For Nordic brown macroalgae, peer-reviewed estimates of sediment C-stock and sequestration are lacking. Overall, the review reveals substantial Nordic BC-stocks, but highlights that evidence is still insufficient to provide a robust estimate of all Nordic BC-stocks and sequestration rates. Needed are better quantification of habitat area, C-stocks and fluxes, particularly for macroalgae, as well as identification of target areas for BC management. The review also points to directives and regulations protecting Nordic marine vegetation, and local restoration initiatives with potential to increase C-sequestration but underlines that increased coordination at national and Nordic scales and across sectors is needed. We propose a Nordic BC roadmap for science and management to maximize the potential of BC habitats to mitigate climate change and support coastal protection, biodiversity and additional ecosystem functions.
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26. |
- Lindegarth, Mats, 1965, et al.
(author)
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Testing the Potential for Predictive Modeling and Mapping and Extending Its Use as a Tool for Evaluating Management Scenarios and Economic Valuation in the Baltic Sea (PREHAB)
- 2014
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In: Ambio. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 43:1, s. 82-93
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We evaluated performance of species distribution models for predictive mapping, and how models can be used to integrate human pressures into ecological and economic assessments. A selection of 77 biological variables (species, groups of species, and measures of biodiversity) across the Baltic Sea were modeled. Differences among methods, areas, predictor, and response variables were evaluated. Several methods successfully predicted abundance and occurrence of vegetation, invertebrates, fish, and functional aspects of biodiversity. Depth and substrate were among the most important predictors. Models incorporating water clarity were used to predict increasing cover of the brown alga bladderwrack Fucus vesiculosus and increasing reproduction area of perch Perca fluviatilis, but decreasing reproduction areas for pikeperch Sander lucioperca following successful implementation of the Baltic Sea Action Plan. Despite variability in estimated non-market benefits among countries, such changes were highly valued by citizens in the three Baltic countries investigated. We conclude that predictive models are powerful and useful tools for science-based management of the Baltic Sea.
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27. |
- Lyimo, Liberatus D., et al.
(author)
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Shading and simulated grazing increase the sulphide pool and methane emission in a tropical seagrass meadow
- 2018
-
In: Marine Pollution Bulletin. - : Elsevier BV. - 0025-326X .- 1879-3363. ; 134, s. 89-93
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Though seagrass meadows are among the most productive habitats in the world, contributing substantially to long-term carbon storage, studies of the effects of critical disturbances on the fate of carbon sequestered in the sediment and biomass of these meadows are scarce. In a manipulative in situ experiment, we studied the effects of successive loss of seagrass biomass as a result of shading and simulated grazing at two intensity levels on sulphide (H2S) content and methane (CH4) emission in a tropical seagrass meadow in Zanzibar (Tanzania). In all disturbed treatments, we found a several-fold increase in both the sulphide concentration of the sediment pore-water and the methane emissions from the sediment surface (except for CH4 emissions in the low-shading treatment). This could be due to the ongoing degradation of belowground biomass shed by the seagrass plants, supporting the production of both sulphate-reducing bacteria and methanogens, possibly exacerbated by the loss of downwards oxygen transport via seagrass plants. The worldwide rapid loss of seagrass areas due to anthropogenic activities may therefore have significant effects on carbon sink-source relationships within coastal seas.
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28. |
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29. |
- Moberg, Christina, et al.
(author)
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De unga gör helt rätt när de stämmer staten : 1 620 forskare och lärare i forskarvärlden: Vi ställer oss bakom Auroras klimatkrav
- 2022
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In: Aftonbladet. - : Aftonbladet. ; :2022-12-07
-
Journal article (pop. science, debate, etc.)abstract
- Vi, 1 620 forskare samt lärare vid universitet och högskolor, är eniga med de unga bakom Auroramålet: De drabbas och riskerar att drabbas allvarligt av klimatkrisen under sin livstid. De klimatåtgärder vi vidtar i närtid avgör deras framtid. Sverige måste ta ansvar och göra sin rättvisa andel av det globala klimatarbetet. I strid med Parisavtalet ökar utsläppen av växthusgaser i en takt som gör att 1,5-gradersmålet kan överskridas om några år. De globala effekterna blir allt mer synliga med ständiga temperaturrekord, smältande isar, havshöjning och extremväder som torka, förödande bränder och skyfall med enorma översvämningar, som i Pakistan nyligen. Försörjningen av befolkningen utsätts för allvarliga hot i många länder.Minskningen av den biologiska mångfalden är extrem. Klimatkrisen är enligt WHO det största hotet mot människors hälsa i hela världen och barn utgör en särskilt sårbar grupp. Med Sveriges nordliga läge sker uppvärmningen här dubbelt så fort som det globala genomsnittet. Det förskjuter utbredningsområden för växtlighet och sjukdomsbärande insekter och ökar förekomsten av extremväder såsom värmeböljor, skogsbränder och översvämningar samt av många olika sorters infektioner och allergier. När extremväder ökar, ökar även stressen och risken för mental ohälsa. Värmeböljor ökar risken för sjukdom och död hos sårbara grupper som äldre, små barn och personer med kroniska sjukdomar. De negativa effekterna på hälsan kommer att öka i takt med klimatkrisen och barn riskerar att drabbas av ackumulerade negativa hälsoeffekter under hela sina liv. Redan i dag är mer än hälften av unga mellan 12 och 18 år i Sverige ganska eller mycket oroliga för klimat och miljö. Detta är förståeligt när våra beslutsfattare inte gör vad som krävs.Den juridiska och moraliska grunden för arbetet mot klimatförändringarna är att varje land måste göra sin rättvisa andel av det globala klimatarbetet. Centralt i det internationella klimatramverket är att rika länder med höga historiska utsläpp, däribland Sverige, måste gå före resten av världen. Dessa länder måste också bidra till att finansiera klimatomställningen i länderna i det Globala Syd, som är minst ansvariga för klimatkrisen men drabbas hårdast. Denna rättviseprincip är tydlig i Parisavtalet och var en het diskussionsfråga under COP27 i Sharm el-Sheikh, men lyser med sin frånvaro i det svenska klimatarbetet. Sverige har satt mål för att minska sina utsläpp. Men de är helt otillräckliga: minskningstakten är för låg och målen tillåter samtidigt att åtgärder skjuts på framtiden. Dessutom exkluderas merparten av Sveriges utsläpp från de svenska nationella utsläppsmålen; bland annat utelämnas utsläpp som svensk konsumtion orsakar utanför Sveriges gränser, utsläpp från utrikes transporter och utsläpp från markanvändning och skogsbruk, exempelvis utsläpp från förbränning av biobränslen eller utsläpp från dikade våtmarker (Prop. 2016/17:146 s.25-28).Sverige saknar dessutom ett eget mål för att öka upptaget av växthusgaser genom utökat skydd och restaurering av ekosystem, något som krävs för att begränsa de värsta konsekvenserna av klimatkrisen (IPCC s.32). Trots dessa låga ambitioner misslyckas Sverige med att nå sina utsläppsmål, konstaterar både Klimatpolitiska rådet och Naturvårdsverket. En klimatpolitik i linje med Parisavtalet kräver både att alla typer av växthusgasutsläpp minskar samtidigt som – inte i stället för – upptaget av växthusgaser maximeras: i dag misslyckas Sverige på bägge fronter.Slutsatsen är tydlig. Sverige vidtar inte de åtgärder som krävs för att skydda barns och ungdomars rättigheter enligt Europakonventionen till skydd för de mänskliga rättigheterna. Detta medför allvarliga risker för liv och hälsa för unga generationer, människor i andra länder och särskilt utsatta grupper. Detta kan inte fortsätta. Därför ställer vi oss bakom Auroras krav att Sverige börjar göra sin rättvisa andel och omedelbart sätter igång ett omfattande och långtgående klimatarbete som vilar på vetenskaplig grund och sätter rättvisa i centrum.
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30. |
- Nascimento, Francisco J. A., et al.
(author)
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Above-below surface interactions mediate effects of seagrass disturbance on meiobenthic diversity, nematode and polychaete trophic structure
- 2019
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In: Communications Biology. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 2399-3642. ; 2
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Ecological interactions between aquatic plants and sediment communities can shape the structure and function of natural systems. Currently, we do not fully understand how sea- grass habitat degradation impacts the biodiversity of belowground sediment communities. Here, we evaluated indirect effects of disturbance of seagrass meadows on meiobenthic community composition, with a five-month in situ experiment in a tropical seagrass meadow. Disturbance was created by reducing light availability (two levels of shading), and by mimicking grazing events (two levels) to assess impacts on meiobenthic diversity using high- throughput sequencing of 18S rRNA amplicons. Both shading and simulated grazing had an effect on meiobenthic community structure, mediated by seagrass-associated biotic drivers and sediment abiotic variables. Additionally, shading substantially altered the trophic structure of the nematode community. Our findings show that degradation of seagrass meadows can alter benthic community structure in coastal areas with potential impacts to ecosystem functions mediated by meiobenthos in marine sediments.
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31. |
- Röhr, Maria Emilia, et al.
(author)
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Blue Carbon Storage Capacity of Temperate Eelgrass (Zostera marina) Meadows
- 2018
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In: Global Biogeochemical Cycles. - 0886-6236 .- 1944-9224. ; 32:10, s. 1457-1475
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Despite the importance of coastal ecosystems for the global carbon budgets, knowledge of their carbon storage capacity and the factors driving variability in storage capacity is still limited. Here we provide an estimate on the magnitude and variability of carbon stocks within a widely distributed marine foundation species throughout its distribution area in temperate Northern Hemisphere. We sampled 54 eelgrass (Zostera marina) meadows, spread across eight ocean margins and 36° of latitude, to determine abiotic and biotic factors influencing organic carbon (Corg) stocks in Zostera marina sediments. The Corg stocks (integrated over 25-cm depth) showed a large variability and ranged from 318 to 26,523gC/m2 with an average of 2,721gC/m2. The projected Corg stocks obtained by extrapolating over the top 1m of sediment ranged between 23.1 and 351.7MgC/ha, which is in line with estimates for other seagrasses and other blue carbon ecosystems. Most of the variation in Corg stocks was explained by five environmental variables (sediment mud content, dry density and degree of sorting, and salinity and water depth), while plant attributes such as biomass and shoot density were less important to Corg stocks. Carbon isotopic signatures indicated that at most sites <50% of the sediment carbon is derived from seagrass, which is lower than reported previously for seagrass meadows. The high spatial carbon storage variability urges caution in extrapolating carbon storage capacity between geographical areas as well as within and between seagrass species.
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32. |
- Silas, Mathew O., et al.
(author)
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Seascape configuration influences big blue octopus (Octopus cyanea) catches: Implications for a sustainable fishery
- 2023
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In: FISHERIES RESEARCH. - : Elsevier. - 0165-7836 .- 1872-6763. ; 264
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seascape configuration is known to influence fish distribution and abundance in coastal waters. However, there is little information regarding how the shape of the coastal seascape influences catches of landed fisheries species, particularly so in the understudied western Indian Ocean (WIO). With focus on big blue octopus (Octopus cyanea), which is a widely found cephalopod species in the WIO, we compared landed catches (biomass, catch rate, and density) in submerged and exposed reefs, and explored the influence of proximity to fishing villages and reef habitat size on octopus landings. We used fishery-dependent data collected between 2018 and 2020 from eight landing sites spread across the Tanzanian coast. We found a strong relationship between biomass of octopus catch and distance from fished reefs to fishing villages, with higher fished biomass on reefs farther away. Octopus densities were higher, while catch rates were lower, on reefs very close to (within one km distance from) fishing villages compared to more distant reefs. In general, submerged reefs provided higher catches than exposed reefs. The low octopus catches on the exposed reefs were attributed to high fishing pressure, while submerged reefs that are only accessible through diving provide optimal areas for octopuses to grow. Octopus catches were, however, not significantly affected by reef size. The findings suggest that management policies should propor-tionate fishing efforts to ensure sustainable exploitation of reefs and associated fishery resources.
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33. |
- Alonso Aller, Elisa, 1984-
(author)
-
Effects of Marine Protected Areas on Tropical Seagrass Ecosystems
- 2018
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Seagrass beds are highly productive coastal ecosystems that sustain a rich and diverse associated fauna and flora. Increasing anthropogenic pressures threaten seagrass ecosystems and have already led to major seagrass losses across the world. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) have become one of the key strategies to manage coastal ecosystems and associated resources worldwide and have been often shown to successfully protect marine ecosystems. However, relatively few studies have assessed the effects of MPAs on seagrass ecosystems, and there are indications that MPAs may not be able to fully protect seagrasses, especially from disturbances originating outside their boundaries. Within this context, this thesis aimed to investigate the direct and indirect effects (those mediated by biotic interactions) of MPAs on tropical seagrasses, associated fish communities, and ecosystem processes.The thesis consists of three parts. First, we used 10-years of seagrass monitoring data within a MPA to evaluate the temporal variability in seagrass cover and species composition in relation to changes in environmental conditions (Paper I). Second, we investigated the potential of MPAs to enhance the temporal stability of seagrass ecosystems using a 10-month field study. We surveyed seagrass-associated fish communities (Paper II) and estimated seagrass growth and herbivory rates (Paper III) during three different seasons within MPAs and unprotected sites. Finally, to evaluate the effects of MPAs and land-use on seagrass ecosystems we surveyed seagrass species and trait composition within government-managed MPAs, community-managed MPAs, and unprotected sites (Paper IV).The seagrass bed monitored in Paper I showed a high temporal and spatial variability, with a temporal decline in cover and change in species composition, followed by a period of recovery. This pattern could not be associated with any of the climate and tidal variables considered, suggesting that potential drivers of decline may have originated outside MPA boundaries. The results from the seasonal field study showed that MPAs increased the temporal stability of seagrass-associated fish communities, particularly juvenile fish (Paper II), and strengthened a positive link between herbivorous fish, herbivory rates, and seagrass growth (Paper III), suggesting the presence of a positive feedback that promotes stability. Finally, MPAs affected seagrass species and trait composition (by selecting for more stress-sensitive species) but did not seem to be able to protect seagrasses from land-use effects, with seagrasses showing similar changes in species and trait composition within and outside MPAs (Paper IV). Considering these results, this thesis builds to a body of literature indicating that MPAs alone may not be sufficient to protect seagrass ecosystems and that improved management strategies may be necessary to preserve these important coastal habitats.
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34. |
- Alonso Aller, Elisa, et al.
(author)
-
Monitoring of a protected multi-specific tropical seagrass meadow reveals a pattern of decline and recovery
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- In a changing environment, there is an increasing interest to monitor ecosystems to understand their responses to environmental change. Seagrass meadows are highly important ecosystems, but at the same time they are under a constant threat from human activities, as well as climate impacts, and marked declines have been observed worldwide. Despite increasing efforts, monitoring of multi-specific tropical seagrass meadows is scarce, particularly in developing regions. Here we analysed data from the first 10 years of a monitoring programme in a marine protected area in Zanzibar (Tanzania) to assess temporal changes in seagrass cover and species composition and to detect potential drivers of change. The seagrass meadow experienced a strong gradual decline in seagrass cover and changes in species composition, followed by a period of recovery. However, the timing and length of these temporal patterns varied in space (between transects). Of the climate variables considered, cloud cover, temperature, storm occurrence, sunspot activity and the height of the diurnal low tide seemed to influence seagrass cover, although only to a small extent, suggesting that the monitored seagrass meadow may be influenced by other unmeasured factors. Considering our results, seagrass meadows seem to be highly dynamic at small spatial scales even in the absence of major local anthropogenic impacts. Further monitoring programmes should be developed in the region to gain a better understanding of seagrass temporal variability and causes of change.
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35. |
- Alonso Aller, Elisa, et al.
(author)
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Single and joint effects of regional- and local-scale variables on tropical seagrass fish assemblages
- 2014
-
In: Marine Biology. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0025-3162 .- 1432-1793. ; 161:10, s. 2395-2405
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seagrass beds are highly important for tropical ecosystems by supporting abundant and diverse fish assemblages that form the basis for artisanal fisheries. Although a number of local- and regional-scale variables are known to influence the abundance, diversity and assemblage structure of seagrass-associated fish assemblages, few studies have evaluated the relative and joint (interacting) influences of variables, especially those acting at different scales. Here, we examined the relative importance of local- and regional-scale factors structuring seagrass-associated fish assemblages, using a field survey in six seagrass (Thalassodendron ciliatum) areas around Unguja Island (Zanzibar, Tanzania). Fish density and assemblage structure were mostly affected by two regional-scale variables; distance to coral reefs, which positively affected fish density, and level of human development, which negatively affected fish density. On the local scale, seagrass biomass had a positive (but weaker) influence on fish density. However, the positive effect of seagrass biomass decreased with increasing level of human development. In summary, our results highlight the importance of assessing how multiple local and regional variables, alone and together, influence fish communities, in order to improve management of seagrass ecosystems and their services.
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36. |
- Alonso Aller, Elisa, et al.
(author)
-
Temporal variability of a protected multispecific tropical seagrass meadow in response to environmental change
- 2019
-
In: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0167-6369 .- 1573-2959. ; 191
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In a changing environment, there is an increasing interest to monitor ecosystems to understand their responses to environmental change. Seagrass meadows are highly important ecosystems that are under constant pressure from human activities and climate impacts, with marked declines observed worldwide. Despite increasing efforts, monitoring of multispecific tropical seagrass meadows is scarce, particularly in low-income regions. Based on data from a monitoring programme in a marine protected area in Zanzibar (Tanzania), we assessed temporal changes in seagrass cover and species composition during a 10-year period in relation to local variability in environmental variables. We observed a strong, gradual decline in seagrass cover and changes in species composition, followed by a period of recovery. However, the timing and length of these temporal patterns varied in space (between transects). Multiple environmental variables—cloud cover, temperature, storm occurrence, sunspot activity, and tidal amplitude and height—influenced seagrass cover, although only to a minor extent, suggesting that the monitored seagrass meadow may be influenced by other unmeasured factors (e.g. water currents and sediment movement). Our results show that seagrass meadows can be highly dynamic at small (10–50m) spatial scales, even in the absence of major local anthropogenic impacts. Our findings suggest that high-resolution monitoring programmes can be highly valuable for the detection of temporal changes in multispecific seagrass meadows; however, to understand the causes of change, there is a need of long-term (> 10years) data series that include direct measurements of environmental variables and extreme events.
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37. |
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38. |
- Andersson, Mathias H, 1976-, et al.
(author)
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Importance of Using Multiple Sampling Methodologies for Estimating of Fish Community Composition in Offshore Wind Power Construction Areas of the Baltic Sea
- 2007
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In: Ambio. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 36:8, s. 634-636
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- It is standard procedure that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is conducted before larger constructions are built. To adequately describe the impact, methods used in an EIA should be carefully adapted considering both the character of the constructions under development and the environment that will be affected. Various sampling techniques are applied to estimate fish abundances and species composition. Methods used, including trawling, seine and gill netting, angling, echo-sound sampling, fishery data, video recordings, dredging, and visual counts using SCUBA, will all give different estimates of fish community composition.
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39. |
- Baden, Susanne P., 1952, et al.
(author)
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Vanishing seagrass (Zostera marina, L.) in Swedish coastal waters
- 2003
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In: Ambio. - 0044-7447. ; 32:5, s. 374-377
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Along the Swedish Skagerrak coast eelgrass (Zostera marina) is a dominant phanerogam on shallow soft bottoms. Eelgrass meadows are important biotopes for many crustacean and fish species being either migratory or stationary. During the 1980s, inventories of the shallow coastal areas with eelgrass have been carried out along the Swedish west coast as a basis for coastal zone management. In the present study we revisited 2000 ha of eelgrass meadows in 5 coastal regions along 200 km of the Skagerrak coast. The inventory was made with the same methods (aquascope) as during the 1980s, but increasing the mapping accuracy by using a Global Positioning System (GPS). The results from this study show that the areal extension of Zostera marina has decreased 58% in 10-15 years with great regional variations. The decline was mainly restricted to the shallow parts of the meadow. The causes and ecological consequences are discussed.
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40. |
- Berkström, Charlotte, et al.
(author)
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Assessing connectivity in a tropical embayment : Fish migrations and seascape ecology
- 2013
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In: Biological Conservation. - : Elsevier BV. - 0006-3207 .- 1873-2917. ; 166, s. 43-53
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seascape connectivity and configuration of multiple habitats are important features to include in marine spatial planning, and protecting seascapes with high connectivity is recommended. The present study examines the potential connectivity of reef fish assemblages in a shallow-water conservation area in Zanzibar (Tanzania) by analysing relationships between a set of habitat variables and fish diversity and density for different functional groups (based on diet) and life stages of fish using PLS-analysis. We combined spatial pattern metrics (habitat type, patch size, distance to patch) and dispersal abilities of a number of fish species using buffer radius to answer the questions; (i) do coral reefs with high connectivity to seagrass habitats have higher abundances and higher species richness of fish that undertake routine migrations during their life-history? and (ii) do coral reefs closer to mangrove forest support higher abundances of nursery species (i.e., fish species that use mangrove and seagrass beds as juvenile habitat)? Habitat mosaics surrounding fish survey sites and within-patch measurements inside fish survey sites were quantified at multiple scales (meters to kilometers) using aerial photography and scuba. Fish data was collected using a standardized point census method. We found that both fine- and broad-scale variables were important in structuring fish communities and connectivity with surrounding habitats, where predominantly seagrass beds within a 750 m radius had a positive influence on fish abundances of invertebrate feeders/piscivores (especially for lutjanids and lethrinids). Additionally, fine-scale seagrass cover had a positive influence on nursery species. Depth also had a positive influence on total species richness and the abundance of invertebrate feeders/piscivores. This study highlights the importance of combining connectivity and habitat configuration at different scales to fully understand and manage the tropical seascape.
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41. |
- Berkström, Charlotte, 1978-, et al.
(author)
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Exploring 'knowns' and 'unknowns' in tropical seascape connectivity with insights from East African coral reefs
- 2012
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In: Estuarine Coastal and Shelf Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 0272-7714 .- 1096-0015. ; 107, s. 1-21
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Applying a broader landscape perspective to understand spatio-temporal changes in local populations and communities has been increasingly used in terrestrial systems to study effects of human impact and land use change. With today's major declines in fishery stocks and rapid degradation of natural coastal habitats, the understanding of habitat configuration and connectivity over relevant temporal and spatial scales is critical for conservation and fisheries management of the seascape. Coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangroves are key-components of the tropical seascape. The spatial distribution of these habitat types may have strong influences on cross-habitat migration and connectivity patterns among organisms. However, the consequences of seascape fragmentation and ecological connectivity are largely unknown. Here, we review the literature to provide an overview of current knowledge with regards to connectivity and food-web interactions within the tropical seascape. We show that information on fish acting as mobile links and being part of nutrient transfer and trophic interactions is scarce. We continue by making an in-depth analysis of the seascape around Zanzibar (Eastern Africa) to fill some of the knowledge gaps identified by the literature survey. Our analysis shows that (i) fifty percent of all fish species found within the Zanzibar seascape use two or multiple habitat types, (ii) eighteen percent of all coral reef-associated fish species use mangrove and seagrass beds as juvenile habitat, and (iii) macrocarnivores and herbivores are highly represented among those coral reef fish species that use mangrove and seagrass beds as juvenile habitat. We argue that understanding the inter-linkages within and between habitat types is essential for successful management of the tropical seascape. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved
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42. |
- Berkström, Charlotte, 1978-, et al.
(author)
-
Seascape configuration influences connectivity of reef fish assemblages
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Shallow-water habitats within tropical seascapes are intimately connected through ontogenetic and/or feeding migrations of fish. Knowledge on connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region is however sparse. Landscape ecology has been suggested as a useful approach when studying seascape connectivity. In this study, we examine the influence of habitat connectivity on reef fish assemblages in shallow-water habitats surrounding Zanzibar (Tanzania), using a seascape approach. We tested the relationships between a set of landscape and habitat variables and fish diversity and density for different functional groups and life stages. Habitat data was collected at scales ranging from 1m to >2km using aerial photography and ground-truthing. Fish data was collected using a standardised point census method. Furthermore, semi-structured interviews with 127 fishers in the bay were conducted to account for different fishing activity. We show that coral reefs in a complex seascape of Zanzibar are connected to seagrass beds through migration of fish. Habitat connectivity of seagrass and seagrass/coral mix within a 750m radius of coral reefs had a positive influence on fish abundances in the functional group of invertebrate feeders/piscivores, especially within the family Lutjanidae and Lethrinidae. Within-patch seagrass cover had a positive influence on nursery species. Depth also had a positive influence on fish assemblages, highlighting the importance of considering a third dimension, not accounted for in terrestrial studies. Generally, fishing activity between sites did neither influence species richness nor abundance, except for the abundance of juvenile parrotfish. We demonstrate that a landscape ecology approach, combining connectivity and habitat variables, is important for understanding and managing the tropical seascape, although it must be applied at relevant scales, habitat metrics and seascape configurations to fully capture ecological connectivity.
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43. |
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44. |
- Björk, Mats, 1960-, et al.
(author)
-
The amount of light reaching the leaves in seagrass (Zostera marina) meadows.
- 2021
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In: PloS one. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 16:9
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seagrass meadows, and other submerged vegetated habitats, support a wide range of essential ecological services, but the true extents of these services are in many ways still not quantified. One important tool needed to assess and model many of these services is accurate estimations of the systems´ primary productivity. Such productivity estimations require an understanding of the underwater light field, especially regarding the amount of light that actually reaches the plants' photosynthetic tissue. In this study, we tested a simple practical approach to estimate leaf light exposure, relative to incoming light at the canopy, by attaching light sensitive film at different positions on leaves of Zostera marina, eelgrass, in four seagrass meadows composed of different shoot density and at two different depths. We found that the light reaching the leaves decreased linearly down through the canopy. While the upper parts of the leaves received approximately the same level of light (photosynthetic photon flux density, PPFD) as recorded with a PAR meter at the canopy top, the average light that the seagrass leaves were exposed to varied between 40 and 60% of the light on top of the canopy, with an overall average of 48%. We recommend that actual light interception is measured when assessing or modelling light depending processes in submerged vegetation, but if this is not achievable a rough estimation for vegetation similar to Z. marina would be to use a correction factor of 0.5 to compensate for the reduced light due to leaf orientation and internal shading.
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45. |
- Buapet, Pimchanok, 1986-, et al.
(author)
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Photorespiration and carbon limitation determine productivity in temperate seagrasses
- 2013
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In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 8:12
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The gross primary productivity of two seagrasses, Zostera marina and Ruppia maritima, and one green macroalga, Ulva intestinalis, was assessed in laboratory and field experiments to determine whether the photorespiratory pathway operates at a substantial level in these macrophytes and to what extent it is enhanced by naturally occurring shifts in dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and O2 in dense vegetation. To achieve these conditions in laboratory experiments, seawater was incubated with U. intestinalis in light to obtain a range of higher pH and O2 levels and lower DIC levels. Gross photosynthetic O2 evolution was then measured in this pretreated seawater (pH, 7.8–9.8; high to low DIC:O2 ratio) at both natural and low O2concentrations (adjusted by N2 bubbling). The presence of photorespiration was indicated by a lower gross O2 evolution rate under natural O2 conditions than when O2 was reduced. In all three macrophytes, gross photosynthetic rates were negatively affected by higher pH and lower DIC. However, while both seagrasses exhibited significant photorespiratory activity at increasing pH values, the macroalga U. intestinalis exhibited no such activity. Rates of seagrass photosynthesis were then assessed in seawater collected from the natural habitats (i.e., shallow bays characterized by high macrophyte cover and by low DIC and high pH during daytime) and compared with open baymouth water conditions (where seawater DIC is in equilibrium with air, normal DIC, and pH). The gross photosynthetic rates of both seagrasses were significantly higher when incubated in the baymouth water, indicating that these grasses can be significantly carbon limited in shallow bays. Photorespiration was also detected in both seagrasses under shallow bay water conditions. Our findings indicate that natural carbon limitations caused by high community photosynthesis can enhance photorespiration and cause a significant decline in seagrass primary production in shallow waters.
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46. |
- Buapet, Pimchanok, et al.
(author)
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Photosynthetic activity of seagrasses and macroalgae in temperate shallow waters can alter seawater pH and total inorganic carbon content at the scale of a coastal embayment
- 2013
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In: Marine and Freshwater Research. - 1323-1650 .- 1448-6059. ; 64:11, s. 1040-1048
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Many studies have reported fluctuations in pH and the concentration of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in shallow coastal waters as a result of photosynthetic activity; however, little is known about how these fluctuations vary with degree of exposure among habitats, and at different scales. In the present study, diel variation in seawater pH was apparent in aquaria experiments with Zostera marina and Ruppia maritima. These pH variations were affected by light regime, biomass level and plant species. Subsequently, the natural variability in seawater pH and the concentration of DIC was assessed in six shallow embayments (three sheltered and three exposed) during sunny days. From the outer part towards the interior part of each bay, the following four habitats were identified and studied: the bay-mouth open water, seagrass beds, mixed macrophyte belts and unvegetated bottoms. The two vegetated habitats and unvegetated bottoms were characterised by higher pH and a lower concentration of DIC than in the bay-mouth water. The mixed macrophytes habitat showed slightly higher pH and a lower concentration of DIC than the seagrass and unvegetated habitats. No significant effect of exposure was detected. Our findings clearly showed that the photosynthetic activity of marine macrophytes can alter the coastal pH and the concentration of DIC and that the effects can be observed at the scale of a whole bay.
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47. |
- Bucas, M., et al.
(author)
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Empirical modelling of benthic species distribution, abundance, and diversity in the Baltic Sea : evaluating the scope for predictive mapping using different modelling approaches
- 2013
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In: ICES Journal of Marine Science. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1054-3139 .- 1095-9289. ; 70:6, s. 1233-1243
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The predictive performance of distribution models of common benthic species in the Baltic Sea was compared using four non-linear methods: generalized additive models (GAMs), multivariate adaptive regression splines, random forest (RF), and maximum entropy modelling (MAXENT). The effects of data traits were also tested. In total, 292 occurrence models and 204 quantitative (abundance and diversity) models were assessed. The main conclusions are that (i) the spatial distribution, abundance, and diversity of benthic species in the Baltic Sea can be successfully predicted using several non-linear predictive modelling techniques; (ii) RF was the most accurate method for both models, closely followed by GAM and MAXENT; (iii) correlation coefficients of predictive performance among the modelling techniques were relatively low, suggesting that the performance of methods is related to specific responses; (iv) the differences in predictive performance among the modelling methods could only partly be explained by data traits; (v) the response prevalence was the most important explanatory variable for predictive accuracy of GAM and MAXENT on occurrence data; (vi) RF on the occurrence data was the only method sensitive to sampling density; (vii) a higher predictive accuracy of abundance models could be achieved by reducing variance in the response data and increasing the sample size.
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48. |
- Charisiadou, S., et al.
(author)
-
Coastal aquaculture in Zanzibar, Tanzania
- 2022
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In: Aquaculture. - : Elsevier. - 0044-8486 .- 1873-5622. ; 546
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study provides an overview of the multi-sectoral coastal aquaculture development in Zanzibar (Tanzania) over the last thirty years based on empirical evidence from interviews, field observations, policy reports and literature reviews. Despite the immense potential of aquaculture for food and livelihoods, only seaweed farming has so far established into commercial-scale production. This activity is dominated by women and became widespread in the early 1990s as a small but regular source of income. However, seaweed farming constraints such as frequent seaweed die-offs, as well as economic and institutional constraints inhibit its development. Other types of aquaculture activities such as fish farming, mud crab fattening, half-pearl farming, sea cucumber farming and sponge and coral cultures are under development with limited production or in experimental stages. Common constraints among these activities are economic limitations, lack of technical infrastructure and skills, small and irregular production, and limited trade and market availabilities. At the same time, there is a lack of sufficient management and monitoring systems, while there are no formal regulations or clear strategies to boost aquaculture at the national level. In addition, new aquaculture initiatives are often dominated by donor-driven projects instead of local entrepreneurships. This situation does not encourage engagement in aquaculture and thus such activities are outcompeted by other already established sectors (e.g. agriculture and fisheries). We conclude that aquaculture has great potential to evolve due to high environmental capacity. Nevertheless, achieving profitable production and a stronger commitment within local communities, as well as developing effective mariculture governance through support mechanisms and clear strategies to boost the sector at the national level, are essential for sustainable mariculture development in Zanzibar.
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49. |
- Deyanova, Diana, et al.
(author)
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Effects of ageing on the photosynthetic capacity of the seagrass Zostera marina Linnaeus
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The effect of tissue age and light stress on seagrass productivity was examined on three scale levels by comparisons among: (i) different parts of a leaf (i.e. the base middle and top), (ii) leaves of different ages, and (iii) shoots of different development stages on the same genet, in the temperate species Zostera marina L. Rapid light curves were performed to estimate chlorophyll fluorescence and to determine the maximal photosynthetic rate (ETRmax), the photosynthetic efficiency (the alpha slope) and the maximal quantum yield (both as Fv/Fm and as the more sensible Fv/F0). The plants were also exposed to inhibiting light stress with measurements performed during the following recovery and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ). The results suggest that seagrass tissue age has an effect on the photosynthetic performance of the plant and that the level of strength varies among different parts of a single shoot and also among shoots of different development stages along the same genet. Younger and senescing tissues generally had lower photosynthetic capacity than mature tissues. It appeared that very young tissues tolerate light stress better than mature and senescing tissues, as the NPQ values of the very young tissue were higher, and they also showed a lower recovery to initial Fv/F0 values. A clear difference was also found in photosynthetic performance and recovery capacity of the youngest shoot compared to the rest of the shoots belonging to the same genet. The leaves of young shoots appeared to better tolerate light stress than leaves of old shoots. These findings provide new insight on seagrass ageing and expand the understanding of ageing effects on photosynthesis on a population level.
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50. |
- Eggertsen, Linda, et al.
(author)
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Effects of tidal current-induced flow on reef fish behaviour and function on a subtropical rocky reef
- 2016
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In: Marine Ecology Progress Series. - : Inter-Research Science Center. - 0171-8630 .- 1616-1599. ; 559, s. 175-192
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Tidal currents are important features in reef environments with high tidal range. Such current-influenced areas can be attractive for fish due to transport of nutrients and food items. Biological sampling, however, is difficult in these environments and it remains poorly understood to what degree strong currents actually shape tropical and subtropical reef fish communities. We used remote underwater video to investigate effects of flow velocity on fish across the tidal cycle at a rocky reef in southern Mozambique. Fish were recorded during flow velocities ranging from 0 to 1.44 m s(-1). Current flow velocity had no significant effect on the benthic fish assemblage, while increasing flow velocity had a negative effect on pelagic fish abundance and influenced trophic group composition. Limits for tolerated flow velocity on the pelagic assemblage were species-specific, with the highest resistance for larger predatory fish using subcarangiform swimming. Flow velocity had significant positive effects on size of Caranx spp., showing that smaller individuals had lower tolerance to flow than larger conspecifics. Planktivorous pomacentrids and monodactylids were very abundant in flows up to 0.5 m s(-1), suggesting that the area functions as an important foraging ground for planktivorous fish up to this flow velocity, while abundance of barracudas Sphyraena spp. was higher in moderate currents compared to slack water. For the benthic assemblage, benthic structures seemed to provide sufficient flow refuge for fish throughout the tidal cycle, highlighting the importance of structural complexity for benthic fish in this environment. Fish assemblages on reefs subjected to strong tidal currents might therefore be sensitive to habitat modifications. The ecological importance of tidal currents should be considered in marine management.
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