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Khattak WA, Sun J, Hameed R, Zaman F, Abbas A, Khan KA, Elboughdiri N, Akbar R, He F, Ullah MW, Al-Andal A, Du D. Unveiling the resistance of native weed communities: insights for managing invasive weed species in disturbed environments. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:753-777. [PMID: 38174626 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Weed communities influence the dynamics of ecosystems, particularly in disturbed environments where anthropogenic activities often result in higher pollution. Understanding the dynamics existing between native weed communities and invasive species in disturbed environments is crucial for effective management and normal ecosystem functioning. Recognising the potential resistance of native weed communities to invasion in disturbed environments can help identify suitable native plants for restoration operations. This review aims to investigate the adaptations exhibited by native and non-native weeds that may affect invasions within disturbed environments. Factors such as ecological characteristics, altered soil conditions, and adaptations of native weed communities that potentially confer a competitive advantage relative to non-native or invasive weeds in disturbed environments are analysed. Moreover, the roles of biotic interactions such as competition, mutualistic relationships, and allelopathy in shaping the invasion resistance of native weed communities are described. Emphasis is given to the consideration of the resistance of native weeds as a key factor in invasion dynamics that provides insights for conservation and restoration efforts in disturbed environments. Additionally, this review underscores the need for further research to unravel the underlying mechanisms and to devise targeted management strategies. These strategies aim to promote the resistance of native weed communities and mitigate the negative effects of invasive weed species in disturbed environments. By delving deeper into these insights, we can gain an understanding of the ecological dynamics within disturbed ecosystems and develop valuable insights for the management of invasive species, and to restore long-term ecosystem sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wajid Ali Khattak
- School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jianfan Sun
- School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, PO Box 215009, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Rashida Hameed
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Fawad Zaman
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Forest Ecosystem Protection and Restoration of Poyang Lake Watershed, Jiangxi Agricultural University, PO Box 330045, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Silviculture, College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, PO Box 330045, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Adeel Abbas
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Khalid Ali Khan
- Applied College, Center of Bee Research and its Products, Unit of Bee Research and Honey Production, and Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, PO Box 9004, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noureddine Elboughdiri
- Chemical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, University of Ha'il, PO Box 2440, Ha'il, 81441, Saudi Arabia
- Chemical Engineering Process Department, National School of Engineers Gabes, University of Gabes, 6029, Gabes, Tunisia
| | - Rasheed Akbar
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Entomology, The University of Haripur, PO Box 22620, Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Feng He
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Muhammad Wajid Ullah
- Biofuels Institute, School of The Environmental and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Abeer Al-Andal
- Department of Biology, College of Science, King Khalid University, PO Box 960, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - Daolin Du
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, PO Box 212013, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, China
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2
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Kang S, Kim S, Park KC, Petrašiūnas A, Shin HC, Jo E, Cho SM, Kim JH. Molecular evidence for multiple origins and high genetic differentiation of non-native winter crane fly, Trichocera maculipennis (Diptera: Trichoceridae), in the maritime Antarctic. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 242:117636. [PMID: 37952853 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Native biodiversity and ecosystems of Antarctica safeguarded from biological invasion face recent threats from non-native species, accelerated by increasing human activities and climate changes. Over two decades ago, the winter crane fly, Trichocera maculipennis, was first detected on King George Island. It has now successfully colonized several research stations across King George Island. To understand the origin, genetic diversity, and population structure of this Holarctic species, we conducted mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequence analysis across both its native and invasive ranges. In parallel, we performed microsatellite loci analysis within the invasive ranges, utilizing 12 polymorphic microsatellite markers. Furthermore, we compared body sizes among adult males and females collected from three different locations of King George Island. Our COI sequence analysis exhibited two different lineages present on King George Island. Lineage I was linked to Arctic Svalbard and Polish cave populations and Lineage II was related to Canadian Terra Nova National Park populations, implying multiple origins. Microsatellite analysis further exhibited high levels of genetic diversity and significant levels of genetic differentiation among invasive populations. Body sizes of adult T. maculipennis were significantly different among invasive populations but were not attributed to genetics. This significant genetic diversity likely facilitated the rapid colonization and establishment of T. maculipennis on King George Island, contributing to their successful invasion. Molecular analysis results revealed a substantial amount of genetic variation within invasive populations, which can serve as management units for invasive species control. Furthermore, the genetic markers we developed in the study will be invaluable tools for tracking impending invasion events and the travel routes of new individuals. Taken together, these findings illustrate the highly invasive and adaptable characteristics of T. maculipennis. Therefore, immediate action is necessary to mitigate their ongoing invasion and facilitate their eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghyun Kang
- Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon, 21990, South Korea
| | - Sanghee Kim
- Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon, 21990, South Korea
| | - Kye Chung Park
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Ltd., Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
| | - Andrius Petrašiūnas
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Biosciences, Vilnius University Life Sciences Center, LT 1022, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Euna Jo
- Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon, 21990, South Korea
| | - Sung Mi Cho
- Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon, 21990, South Korea
| | - Ji Hee Kim
- Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon, 21990, South Korea.
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3
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Heinrichs ME, Piedade GJ, Popa O, Sommers P, Trubl G, Weissenbach J, Rahlff J. Breaking the Ice: A Review of Phages in Polar Ecosystems. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2738:31-71. [PMID: 37966591 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3549-0_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that infect and replicate within bacterial hosts, playing a significant role in regulating microbial populations and ecosystem dynamics. However, phages from extreme environments such as polar regions remain relatively understudied due to challenges such as restricted ecosystem access and low biomass. Understanding the diversity, structure, and functions of polar phages is crucial for advancing our knowledge of the microbial ecology and biogeochemistry of these environments. In this review, we will explore the current state of knowledge on phages from the Arctic and Antarctic, focusing on insights gained from -omic studies, phage isolation, and virus-like particle abundance data. Metagenomic studies of polar environments have revealed a high diversity of phages with unique genetic characteristics, providing insights into their evolutionary and ecological roles. Phage isolation studies have identified novel phage-host interactions and contributed to the discovery of new phage species. Virus-like particle abundance and lysis rate data, on the other hand, have highlighted the importance of phages in regulating bacterial populations and nutrient cycling in polar environments. Overall, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge about polar phages, and by synthesizing these different sources of information, we can better understand the diversity, dynamics, and functions of polar phages in the context of ongoing climate change, which will help to predict how polar ecosystems and residing phages may respond to future environmental perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Elena Heinrichs
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Gonçalo J Piedade
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, 't Horntje, The Netherlands
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ovidiu Popa
- Institute of Quantitative and Theoretical Biology Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Gareth Trubl
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Julia Weissenbach
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Department of Biology and Environmental Science, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Janina Rahlff
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Department of Biology and Environmental Science, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden.
- Aero-Aquatic Virus Research Group, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
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4
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Hughes KA, Boyle CP, Morley-Hurst K, Gerrish L, Colwell SR, Convey P. Loss of research and operational equipment in Antarctica: Balancing scientific advances with environmental impact. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119200. [PMID: 37832295 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Antarctica has been subject to widespread, long-term and on-going human activity since the establishment of permanent research stations became common in the 1950s. Equipment may become intentionally or inadvertently lost in Antarctic marine and terrestrial environments as a result of scientific research and associated support activities, but this has been poorly quantified to date. Here we report the quantity and nature of equipment lost by the UK's national operator in Antarctica, the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). Over the 15-year study period (2005-2019), 125 incidents of loss were reported, with c. 23 tonnes of equipment lost of which 18% by mass was considered hazardous. The geographical distribution of lost equipment was widespread across the BAS operational footprint. However, impacts are considered low compared to those associated with research station infrastructure establishment and operation. To reduce environmental impact overall, we recommend that, where possible, better use is made of existing research station capacity to facilitate field research, thereby reducing the need for construction of new infrastructure and the generation of associated impacts. Furthermore, to facilitate reporting on the state of the Antarctic environment, we recommend that national Antarctic programmes reinvigorate efforts to comply with Antarctic Treaty System requirements to actively record the locations of past activities and make available details of lost equipment. In a wider context, analogous reporting is also encouraged in other pristine areas subject to new research activities, including in other remote Earth environments and on extra-terrestrial bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin A Hughes
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK.
| | - Claire P Boyle
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK
| | - Kate Morley-Hurst
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK
| | - Laura Gerrish
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK
| | - Steve R Colwell
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK
| | - Peter Convey
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK; Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa; Millennium Institute Biodiversity of Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic Ecosystems (BASE), Santiago, Chile
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5
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Elshishka M, Mladenov A, Lazarova S, Peneva V. Terrestrial nematodes from the Maritime Antarctic. Biodivers Data J 2023; 11:e102057. [PMID: 37809281 PMCID: PMC10552655 DOI: 10.3897/bdj.11.e102057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Soil nematodes are one of the most important terrestrial faunal groups in Antarctica, as they are a major component of soil micro-food webs. Despite their crucial role in soil processes, knowledge of their species diversity and distribution is still incomplete. Taxonomic studies of Antarctic nematodes are fragmented, which prevents assessment of the degree of endemicity and distribution of the species, as well as other aspects of biogeography. New information The present study is focused on the nematode fauna of one of the three Antarctic sub-regions, the Maritime Antarctic and summarises all findings published up to April 2023. A species list that includes 44 species, belonging to 21 genera, 16 families and eight orders is provided. A review of the literature on terrestrial nematodes inhabiting the Maritime Antarctic showed that the sites are unevenly studied. Three islands (Signy, King George and Livingston Islands) revealed highest species richness, probably due to the highest rates of research effort. Most species and four genera (Antarctenchus, Pararhyssocolpus, Amblydorylaimus and Enchodeloides) are endemic, proving that nematode fauna of the Maritime Antarctic is autochthonous and unique. Several groups of islands/sites have been revealed, based on their nematode fauna. The study showed that species with a limited distribution prevailed, while only two species (Plectusantarcticus and Coomansusgerlachei) have been found in more than 50% of the sites. Based on the literature data, details on species localities, microhabitat distribution, plant associations and availability of DNA sequences are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milka Elshishka
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Gagarin Street, 1113, Sofia, BulgariaInstitute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Gagarin Street, 1113SofiaBulgaria
| | - Aleksandar Mladenov
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Gagarin Street, 1113, Sofia, BulgariaInstitute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Gagarin Street, 1113SofiaBulgaria
| | - Stela Lazarova
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Gagarin Street, 1113, Sofia, BulgariaInstitute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Gagarin Street, 1113SofiaBulgaria
| | - Vlada Peneva
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Gagarin Street, 1113, Sofia, BulgariaInstitute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 2 Gagarin Street, 1113SofiaBulgaria
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Tichit P, Roy HE, Convey P, Brickle P, Newton RJ, Dawson W. First record of the introduced ladybird beetle, Coccinella undecimpunctata Linnaeus (1758), on South Georgia (sub-Antarctic). Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10513. [PMID: 37701022 PMCID: PMC10493192 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological invasions represent a growing threat to islands and their biodiversity across the world. The isolated sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia in the South Atlantic Ocean is a highly protected area that relies on effective biosecurity including prevention, surveillance and eradication to limit the risk of biological invasions. Based on an opportunistic field discovery, we provide the first report of an introduced ladybird beetle on South Georgia. All specimens discovered belong to the Eurasian species Coccinella undecimpunctata Linnaeus (1758) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). Tens of individuals of both sexes were discovered at a single location, indicating that the species may already be established on South Georgia. Transport connectivity with this site suggests that the species most likely arrived recently from the Falkland Islands as a stowaway on a ship. We discuss the implications of our discovery for the continued development of South Atlantic biosecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter Convey
- British Antarctic Survey (BAS), Natural Environment Research CouncilCambridgeUK
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of JohannesburgAuckland ParkSouth Africa
- Biodiversity of Antarctic and Sub‐Antarctic Ecosystems (BASE)SantiagoChile
- Cape Horn International Center (CHIC)Puerto WilliamsChile
| | - Paul Brickle
- South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute (SAERI)StanleyFalkland Islands
- School of Biological Sciences (Zoology)University of AberdeenAberdeenUK
| | | | - Wayne Dawson
- Department of BiosciencesDurham UniversityDurhamUK
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7
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Leihy RI, Peake L, Clarke DA, Chown SL, McGeoch MA. Introduced and invasive alien species of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean Islands. Sci Data 2023; 10:200. [PMID: 37041141 PMCID: PMC10090047 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02113-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Open data on biological invasions are particularly critical in regions that are co-governed and/or where multiple independent parties have responsibility for preventing and controlling invasive alien species. The Antarctic is one such region where, in spite of multiple examples of invasion policy and management success, open, centralised data are not yet available. This dataset provides current and comprehensive information available on the identity, localities, establishment, eradication status, dates of introduction, habitat, and evidence of impact of known introduced and invasive alien species for the terrestrial and freshwater Antarctic and Southern Ocean region. It includes 3066 records for 1204 taxa and 36 individual localities. The evidence indicates that close to half of these species are not having an invasive impact, and that ~ 13% of records are of species considered locally invasive. The data are provided using current biodiversity and invasive alien species data and terminology standards. They provide a baseline for updating and maintaining the foundational knowledge needed to halt the rapidly growing risk of biological invasion in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel I Leihy
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, 3800, Australia.
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia.
| | - Lou Peake
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, Department of Environment and Genetics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - David A Clarke
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, Department of Environment and Genetics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Steven L Chown
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Melodie A McGeoch
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, Department of Environment and Genetics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
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8
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Are Antarctic aquatic invertebrates hitchhiking on your footwear? J Nat Conserv 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2023.126354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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9
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Lee JR, Terauds A, Carwardine J, Shaw JD, Fuller RA, Possingham HP, Chown SL, Convey P, Gilbert N, Hughes KA, McIvor E, Robinson SA, Ropert-Coudert Y, Bergstrom DM, Biersma EM, Christian C, Cowan DA, Frenot Y, Jenouvrier S, Kelley L, Lee MJ, Lynch HJ, Njåstad B, Quesada A, Roura RM, Shaw EA, Stanwell-Smith D, Tsujimoto M, Wall DH, Wilmotte A, Chadès I. Threat management priorities for conserving Antarctic biodiversity. PLoS Biol 2022; 20:e3001921. [PMID: 36548240 PMCID: PMC9778584 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Antarctic terrestrial biodiversity faces multiple threats, from invasive species to climate change. Yet no large-scale assessments of threat management strategies exist. Applying a structured participatory approach, we demonstrate that existing conservation efforts are insufficient in a changing world, estimating that 65% (at best 37%, at worst 97%) of native terrestrial taxa and land-associated seabirds are likely to decline by 2100 under current trajectories. Emperor penguins are identified as the most vulnerable taxon, followed by other seabirds and dry soil nematodes. We find that implementing 10 key threat management strategies in parallel, at an estimated present-day equivalent annual cost of US$23 million, could benefit up to 84% of Antarctic taxa. Climate change is identified as the most pervasive threat to Antarctic biodiversity and influencing global policy to effectively limit climate change is the most beneficial conservation strategy. However, minimising impacts of human activities and improved planning and management of new infrastructure projects are cost-effective and will help to minimise regional threats. Simultaneous global and regional efforts are critical to secure Antarctic biodiversity for future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine R. Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- CSIRO, Dutton Park, Queensland, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- British Antarctic Survey, NERC, High Cross, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Aleks Terauds
- Australian Antarctic Division, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Kingston, Tasmania, Australia
| | | | - Justine D. Shaw
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Antarctic Division, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Kingston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Richard A. Fuller
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Hugh P. Possingham
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- The Nature Conservancy, Arlington, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Steven L. Chown
- Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Convey
- British Antarctic Survey, NERC, High Cross, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Neil Gilbert
- Constantia Consulting, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Kevin A. Hughes
- British Antarctic Survey, NERC, High Cross, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ewan McIvor
- Australian Antarctic Division, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Kingston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Sharon A. Robinson
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmosphere and Life Sciences and Global Challenges Program, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yan Ropert-Coudert
- Centre d’Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, La Rochelle Université − CNRS, UMR 7372, Villiers en Bois, France
| | - Dana M. Bergstrom
- Australian Antarctic Division, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Kingston, Tasmania, Australia
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmosphere and Life Sciences and Global Challenges Program, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elisabeth M. Biersma
- British Antarctic Survey, NERC, High Cross, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claire Christian
- Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Don A. Cowan
- Centre for Microbial Ecology and Genomics, Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yves Frenot
- University of Rennes 1, CNRS, EcoBio (Ecosystèmes, biodiversité, évolution)—UMR 6553, Rennes, France
| | - Stéphanie Jenouvrier
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lisa Kelley
- International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), South Kingstown, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | | | - Heather J. Lynch
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Antonio Quesada
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo M. Roura
- Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - E. Ashley Shaw
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Damon Stanwell-Smith
- International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), South Kingstown, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Viking Expeditions, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Megumu Tsujimoto
- Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa Japan
- National Institute of Polar Research, Tachikawa, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Diana H. Wall
- Department of Biology and School of Global Environmental Sustainability, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
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10
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Lee JR, Waterman MJ, Shaw JD, Bergstrom DM, Lynch HJ, Wall DH, Robinson SA. Islands in the ice: Potential impacts of habitat transformation on Antarctic biodiversity. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2022; 28:5865-5880. [PMID: 35795907 PMCID: PMC9542894 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Antarctic biodiversity faces an unknown future with a changing climate. Most terrestrial biota is restricted to limited patches of ice-free land in a sea of ice, where they are adapted to the continent's extreme cold and wind and exploit microhabitats of suitable conditions. As temperatures rise, ice-free areas are predicted to expand, more rapidly in some areas than others. There is high uncertainty as to how species' distributions, physiology, abundance, and survivorship will be affected as their habitats transform. Here we use current knowledge to propose hypotheses that ice-free area expansion (i) will increase habitat availability, though the quality of habitat will vary; (ii) will increase structural connectivity, although not necessarily increase opportunities for species establishment; (iii) combined with milder climates will increase likelihood of non-native species establishment, but may also lengthen activity windows for all species; and (iv) will benefit some species and not others, possibly resulting in increased homogeneity of biodiversity. We anticipate considerable spatial, temporal, and taxonomic variation in species responses, and a heightened need for interdisciplinary research to understand the factors associated with ecosystem resilience under future scenarios. Such research will help identify at-risk species or vulnerable localities and is crucial for informing environmental management and policymaking into the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine R. Lee
- British Antarctic SurveyNERCCambridgeUK
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, School of Biology and Environmental ScienceQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - Melinda J. Waterman
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life SciencesUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Justine D. Shaw
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, School of Biology and Environmental ScienceQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - Dana M. Bergstrom
- Australian Antarctic Division, Department of AgricultureWater and the EnvironmentKingstonTASAustralia
- Global Challenges ProgramUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Heather J. Lynch
- Department of Ecology and EvolutionStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew YorkUSA
| | - Diana H. Wall
- Department of Biology and School of Global Environmental SustainabilityColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColoradoUSA
| | - Sharon A. Robinson
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life SciencesUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
- Global Challenges ProgramUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
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11
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Houghton M, Terauds A, Shaw J. Rapid range expansion of an invasive flatworm, Kontikia andersoni, on sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island. Biol Invasions 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-022-02877-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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12
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Host-Associated Phages Disperse across the Extraterrestrial Analogue Antarctica. Appl Environ Microbiol 2022; 88:e0031522. [PMID: 35499326 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00315-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Extreme Antarctic conditions provide one of the closest analogues of extraterrestrial environments. Since air and snow samples, especially from polar regions, yield DNA amounts in the lower picogram range, binning of prokaryotic genomes is challenging and renders studying the dispersal of biological entities across these environments difficult. Here, we hypothesized that dispersal of host-associated bacteriophages (adsorbed, replicating, or prophages) across the Antarctic continent can be tracked via their genetic signatures, aiding our understanding of virus and host dispersal across long distances. Phage genome fragments (PGFs) reconstructed from surface snow metagenomes of three Antarctic stations were assigned to four host genomes, mainly Betaproteobacteria, including Ralstonia spp. We reconstructed the complete genome of a temperate phage with nearly complete alignment to a prophage in the reference genome of Ralstonia pickettii 12D. PGFs from different stations were related to each other at the genus level and matched similar hosts. Metagenomic read mapping and nucleotide polymorphism analysis revealed a wide dispersal of highly identical PGFs, 13 of which were detected in seawater from the Western Antarctic Peninsula at a distance of 5,338 km from the snow sampling stations. Our results suggest that host-associated phages, especially of Ralstonia sp., disperse over long distances despite the harsh conditions of the Antarctic continent. Given that 14 phages associated with two R. pickettii draft genomes isolated from space equipment were identified, we conclude that Ralstonia phages are ideal mobile genetic elements to track dispersal and contamination in ecosystems relevant for astrobiology. IMPORTANCE Host-associated phages of the bacterium Ralstonia identified in snow samples can be used to track microbial dispersal over thousands of kilometers across the Antarctic continent, which functions as an extraterrestrial analogue because of its harsh environmental conditions. Due to the presence of these bacteria carrying genome-integrated prophages on space-related equipment and the potential for dispersal of host-associated phages demonstrated here, our work has implications for planetary protection, a discipline in astrobiology interested in preventing contamination of celestial bodies with alien biomolecules or forms of life.
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13
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Tejedo P, Benayas J, Cajiao D, Leung YF, De Filippo D, Liggett D. What are the real environmental impacts of Antarctic tourism? Unveiling their importance through a comprehensive meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 308:114634. [PMID: 35151103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.114634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Human activities in Antarctica were increasing before the COVID-19 pandemic, and tourism was not an exception. The growth and diversification of Antarctic tourism over the last few decades have been extensively studied. However, environmental impacts associated with this activity have received less attention despite an increasing body of scholarship examining environmental issues related to Antarctic tourism. Aside from raising important research questions, the potential negative effects of tourist visits in Antarctica are also an issue discussed by Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties. This study presents the results of a meta-analysis of scholarly publications that synthesizes and updates our current knowledge of environmental impacts resulting from Antarctic tourism. A first publication database containing 233 records that focussed on this topic was compiled and subjected to a general bibliometric and content analysis. Further, an in-depth content analysis was performed on a subset of 75 records, which were focussed on showing specific research on Antarctic tourism impacts. The main topic, methods, management proposals, and research gaps highlighted by the respective authors of these 75 publications were assessed. The range of research topics addressed, the methods used - including the application of established research designs from the field of environmental impact assessment -, and the conclusions reached by the study authors are discussed. Interestingly, almost one third of the studies did not detect a direct relationship between tourism and significant negative effects on the environment. Cumulative impacts of tourism have received little attention, and long-term and comprehensive monitoring programs have been discussed only rarely, leading us to assume that such long-term programs are scarce. More importantly, connections between research and policy or management do not always exist. This analysis highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy to investigate and monitor the environmental impacts of tourism in Antarctica. A first specific research and monitoring programme to stimulate a debate among members of the Antarctic scientific and policy communities is proposed, with the ultimate goal of advancing the regulation and management of Antarctic tourism collaboratively.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Tejedo
- Grupo de Investigación ECOPOLAR - Biología y Ecología en Ambientes Polares, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin 2, E-28049, Madrid, Spain.
| | - J Benayas
- Grupo de Investigación ECOPOLAR - Biología y Ecología en Ambientes Polares, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin 2, E-28049, Madrid, Spain.
| | - D Cajiao
- Grupo de Investigación ECOPOLAR - Biología y Ecología en Ambientes Polares, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin 2, E-28049, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Ecología Aplicada ECOLAP-USFQ, Universidad de San Francisco de Quito, P.O. Box 1712841, Diego de Robles y Pampite, Cumbayá, Ecuador.
| | - Y-F Leung
- Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management and Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University, 5107 Jordan Hall, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
| | - D De Filippo
- Laboratorio de Estudios Métricos de la Información (LEMI), Departamento de Biblioteconomía y Documentación, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, E-28903, Getafe, Spain; Research Institute for Higher Education and Science (INAECU) (UAM-UC3M), E-28903, Getafe, Spain.
| | - D Liggett
- Gateway Antarctica, University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand.
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14
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Bergstrom DM. Maintaining Antarctica's isolation from non-native species. Trends Ecol Evol 2021; 37:5-9. [PMID: 34809999 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Antarctica's isolation has been breached by various non-native species, including microbes, a grass, and some invertebrates. As yet, no marine species have reportedly established populations. With increasing effects of climate change and human activity, continued concerted action is needed to keep Antarctica protected from the impacts of non-native species establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana M Bergstrom
- Australian Antarctic Division, Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Kingston, TAS, 7050, Australia; Global Challenges Program, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
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15
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Vega GC, Pertierra LR, Benayas J, Olalla-Tárraga MÁ. Ensemble forecasting of invasion risk for four alien springtail (Collembola) species in Antarctica. Polar Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-021-02949-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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16
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Understanding how best to engage recreationists in biosecurity to reduce the impacts of tree diseases: a review. Emerg Top Life Sci 2021; 4:531-538. [PMID: 33258896 PMCID: PMC7803342 DOI: 10.1042/etls20200064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Pests and diseases introduced from other countries are known to pose a threat to trees, woods and forests in many locations throughout the world. Once introduced they can be spread inadvertently by countryside visitors hiking, biking or riding along paths and trails through wooded areas. Engaging and communicating with these groups of countryside users to encourage and facilitate positive biosecurity behaviours is crucial for the future resilience of trees, woods and forests. This review draws on literature outlining principles for stakeholder engagement in forestry as well as evaluations of biosecurity campaigns from around the world. Key points are briefly presented for communicators aiming to encourage better biosecurity in the countryside. These include, the need to design campaigns based on the values and motivations of recreationists, using trusted information sources and understanding the importance of combining information with facilities so as to reduce the cost (in terms of effort and inconvenience) to hikers and other countryside users.
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17
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López-Farrán Z, Guillaumot C, Vargas-Chacoff L, Paschke K, Dulière V, Danis B, Poulin E, Saucède T, Waters J, Gérard K. Is the southern crab Halicarcinus planatus (Fabricius, 1775) the next invader of Antarctica? GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2021; 27:3487-3504. [PMID: 33964095 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The potential for biological colonization of Antarctic shores is an increasingly important topic in the context of anthropogenic warming. Successful Antarctic invasions to date have been recorded exclusively from terrestrial habitats. While non-native marine species such as crabs, mussels and tunicates have already been reported from Antarctic coasts, none have as yet established there. Among the potential marine invaders of Antarctic shallow waters is Halicarcinus planatus (Fabricius, 1775), a crab with a circum-Subantarctic distribution and substantial larval dispersal capacity. An ovigerous female of this species was found in shallow waters of Deception Island, South Shetland Islands in 2010. A combination of physiological experiments and ecological modelling was used to assess the potential niche of H. planatus and estimate its future southward boundaries under climate change scenarios. We show that H. planatus has a minimum thermal limit of 1°C, and that its current distribution (assessed by sampling and niche modelling) is physiologically restricted to the Subantarctic region. While this species is presently unable to survive in Antarctica, future warming under both 'strong mitigation' and 'no mitigation' greenhouse gas emission scenarios will favour its niche expansion to the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) by 2100. Future human activity also has potential to increase the probability of anthropogenic translocation of this species into Antarctic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zambra López-Farrán
- LEM-Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular, Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Research Center Dynamics of High Latitude Marine Ecosystems (Fondap-IDEAL), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- LEMAS-Laboratorio de Ecología de Macroalgas Antárticas y Sub antárticas, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Charlène Guillaumot
- Laboratoire de Biologie Marine CP160/15, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
- Biogéosciences, UMR 6282 CNRS, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Luis Vargas-Chacoff
- Research Center Dynamics of High Latitude Marine Ecosystems (Fondap-IDEAL), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Laboratorio de Fisiología de Peces, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Kurt Paschke
- Research Center Dynamics of High Latitude Marine Ecosystems (Fondap-IDEAL), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- Instituto de Acuicultura, Universidad Austral de Chile, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Valérie Dulière
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bruno Danis
- Laboratoire de Biologie Marine CP160/15, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Elie Poulin
- LEM-Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular, Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Thomas Saucède
- Biogéosciences, UMR 6282 CNRS, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Jonathan Waters
- Otago Palaeogenetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Karin Gérard
- LEMAS-Laboratorio de Ecología de Macroalgas Antárticas y Sub antárticas, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
- Centro de Investigación Gaia-Antártica, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
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18
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Adaptive Management of Sustainable Tourism in Antarctica: A Rhetoric or Working Progress? SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13147649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Growth and diversification of tourism activities in Antarctica have not been matched by proactive strategies for planning or management. Recognizing that the adaptive management approach has been effectively implemented in managing tourism in protected areas, we examine to what extent this approach has been incorporated into the Antarctic tourism research and management, and what constraints exist for its implementation. To better understand the extent of literature contributions, we conducted an appraisal of 72 peer-reviewed journal articles published from 1992 to 2020 and Antarctic management documents. From a scientific perspective, researchers have been advocating for adaptive management approaches to Antarctic tourism and have applied different elements, particularly ecological assessments, design of management measures, monitoring, and regulatory mechanisms. However, these contributions have not been necessarily translated into management policy and regulations. We acknowledge that full implementation of an adaptive management approach is not easily achievable due to the unique Antarctic regime. However, we argue that comprehensive site-specific and regional adaptive management models could be applied as the first step for a more systematic implementation. This incremental approach could contribute to enhanced stakeholder participation and improved decision-making processes, ultimately leading to a more proactive and effective management of Antarctic tourism, essential for the conservation of the continent.
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19
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León MRD, Hughes KA, Morelli E, Convey P. International Response under the Antarctic Treaty System to the Establishment of A Non-native Fly in Antarctica. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 67:1043-1059. [PMID: 33860349 PMCID: PMC8106607 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-021-01464-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Antarctica currently has few non-native species, compared to other regions of the planet, due to the continent's isolation, extreme climatic conditions and the lack of habitat. However, human activity, particularly the activities of national government operators and tourism, increasingly contributes to the risk of non-native species transfer and establishment. Trichocera (Saltitrichocera) maculipennis Meigen, 1888 (Diptera, Trichoceridae) is a non-native fly originating from the Northern Hemisphere that was unintentionally introduced to King George Island in the maritime Antarctic South Shetland Islands around 15 years ago, since when it has been reported within or in the vicinity of several research stations. It is not explicitly confirmed that T. maculipennis has established in the natural environment, but life-history characteristics make this likely, thereby making potential eradication or control a challenge. Antarctic Treaty Parties active in the region are developing a coordinated and expanding international response to monitor and control T. maculipennis within and around stations in the affected area. However, there remains no overarching non-native invasive species management plan for the island or the wider maritime Antarctic region (which shares similar environmental conditions and habitats to those of King George Island). Here we present some options towards the development of such a plan. We recommend the development of (1) clear mechanisms for the timely coordination of response activities by multiple Parties operating in the vicinity of the introduction location and (2) policy guidance on acceptable levels of environmental impacts resulting from eradication attempts in the natural environment, including the use of pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Remedios-De León
- Entomology Section, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ET, UK
| | - Kevin Andrew Hughes
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ET, UK.
| | - Enrique Morelli
- Entomology Section, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Peter Convey
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ET, UK
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20
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Pertierra LR, Escribano-Álvarez P, Olalla-Tárraga MÁ. Cold tolerance is similar but heat tolerance is higher in the alien insect Trichocera maculipennis than in the native Parochlus steinenii in Antarctica. Polar Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-021-02865-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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21
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Holland O, Shaw J, Stark JS, Wilson KA. Hull fouling marine invasive species pose a very low, but plausible, risk of introduction to East Antarctica in climate change scenarios. DIVERS DISTRIB 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Oakes Holland
- Institute for Future Environments Queensland University of Technology Brisbane Australia
| | - Justine Shaw
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Queensland St. Lucia QLD Australia
- Australian Antarctic Division Kingston TAS Australia
| | | | - Kerrie A. Wilson
- Institute for Future Environments Queensland University of Technology Brisbane Australia
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22
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Barbosa A, Varsani A, Morandini V, Grimaldi W, Vanstreels RET, Diaz JI, Boulinier T, Dewar M, González-Acuña D, Gray R, McMahon CR, Miller G, Power M, Gamble A, Wille M. Risk assessment of SARS-CoV-2 in Antarctic wildlife. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 755:143352. [PMID: 33162142 PMCID: PMC7598351 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This pathogen has spread rapidly across the world, causing high numbers of deaths and significant social and economic impacts. SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus with a suggested zoonotic origin with the potential for cross-species transmission among animals. Antarctica can be considered the only continent free of SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, concerns have been expressed regarding the potential human introduction of this virus to the continent through the activities of research or tourism to minimise the effects on human health, and the potential for virus transmission to Antarctic wildlife. We assess the reverse-zoonotic transmission risk to Antarctic wildlife by considering the available information on host susceptibility, dynamics of the infection in humans, and contact interactions between humans and Antarctic wildlife. The environmental conditions in Antarctica seem to be favourable for the virus stability. Indoor spaces such as those at research stations, research vessels or tourist cruise ships could allow for more transmission among humans and depending on their movements between different locations the virus could be spread across the continent. Among Antarctic wildlife previous in silico analyses suggested that cetaceans are at greater risk of infection whereas seals and birds appear to be at a low infection risk. However, caution needed until further research is carried out and consequently, the precautionary principle should be applied. Field researchers handling animals are identified as the human group posing the highest risk of transmission to animals while tourists and other personnel pose a significant risk only when in close proximity (< 5 m) to Antarctic fauna. We highlight measures to reduce the risk as well as identify of knowledge gaps related to this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Barbosa
- Evolutionary Ecology Dpt. Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, C/José Gutierrez Abascal, 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Arvind Varsani
- The Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Center for Evolution and Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA; Structural Biology Research Unit, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Virginia Morandini
- Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Ralph E T Vanstreels
- Institute of Research and Rehabilitation of Marine Animals (IPRAM), Rodovia, Cariacica, Brazil
| | - Julia I Diaz
- Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores (CEPAVE-UNLP-CONICET), La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Thierry Boulinier
- Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, EPHE, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Meagan Dewar
- School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Australia
| | - Daniel González-Acuña
- Laboratorio de Parásitos y Enfermedades de Fauna Silvestre, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Rachael Gray
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Clive R McMahon
- IMOS Animal Satellite Tagging, Sydney Institute of Marine Science, Mosman, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gary Miller
- Discipline of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Michelle Power
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Amandine Gamble
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of California Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Wille
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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23
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Gutt J, Isla E, Xavier JC, Adams BJ, Ahn IY, Cheng CHC, Colesie C, Cummings VJ, di Prisco G, Griffiths H, Hawes I, Hogg I, McIntyre T, Meiners KM, Pearce DA, Peck L, Piepenburg D, Reisinger RR, Saba GK, Schloss IR, Signori CN, Smith CR, Vacchi M, Verde C, Wall DH. Antarctic ecosystems in transition - life between stresses and opportunities. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 96:798-821. [PMID: 33354897 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Important findings from the second decade of the 21st century on the impact of environmental change on biological processes in the Antarctic were synthesised by 26 international experts. Ten key messages emerged that have stakeholder-relevance and/or a high impact for the scientific community. They address (i) altered biogeochemical cycles, (ii) ocean acidification, (iii) climate change hotspots, (iv) unexpected dynamism in seabed-dwelling populations, (v) spatial range shifts, (vi) adaptation and thermal resilience, (vii) sea ice related biological fluctuations, (viii) pollution, (ix) endangered terrestrial endemism and (x) the discovery of unknown habitats. Most Antarctic biotas are exposed to multiple stresses and considered vulnerable to environmental change due to narrow tolerance ranges, rapid change, projected circumpolar impacts, low potential for timely genetic adaptation, and migration barriers. Important ecosystem functions, such as primary production and energy transfer between trophic levels, have already changed, and biodiversity patterns have shifted. A confidence assessment of the degree of 'scientific understanding' revealed an intermediate level for most of the more detailed sub-messages, indicating that process-oriented research has been successful in the past decade. Additional efforts are necessary, however, to achieve the level of robustness in scientific knowledge that is required to inform protection measures of the unique Antarctic terrestrial and marine ecosystems, and their contributions to global biodiversity and ecosystem services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Gutt
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Columbusstr., Bremerhaven, 27568, Germany
| | - Enrique Isla
- Institute of Marine Sciences-CSIC, Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta 37-49, Barcelona, 08003, Spain
| | - José C Xavier
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Coimbra, Portugal.,British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environmental Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 OET, U.K
| | - Byron J Adams
- Department of Biology and Monte L. Bean Museum, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, U.S.A
| | - In-Young Ahn
- Korea Polar Research Institute, 26 Songdomirae-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21990, South Korea
| | - C-H Christina Cheng
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behavior, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, U.S.A
| | - Claudia Colesie
- School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, Alexander Crum Brown Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3FF, U.K
| | - Vonda J Cummings
- National Institute of Water and Atmosphere Research Ltd (NIWA), 301 Evans Bay Parade, Greta Point, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Guido di Prisco
- Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, Naples, I-80131, Italy
| | - Huw Griffiths
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environmental Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 OET, U.K
| | - Ian Hawes
- Coastal Marine Field Station, University of Waikato, 58 Cross Road, Tauranga, 3100, New Zealand
| | - Ian Hogg
- School of Science, University of Waikato, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand.,Canadian High Antarctic Research Station, Polar Knowledge Canada, PO Box 2150, Cambridge Bay, NU, X0B 0C0, Canada
| | - Trevor McIntyre
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, University of South Africa, Private Bag X6, Florida, 1710, South Africa
| | - Klaus M Meiners
- Australian Antarctic Division, Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, and Australian Antarctic Program Partnership, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS, 7004, Australia
| | - David A Pearce
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environmental Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 OET, U.K.,Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University at Newcastle, Northumberland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, U.K
| | - Lloyd Peck
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environmental Research Council, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 OET, U.K
| | - Dieter Piepenburg
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Columbusstr., Bremerhaven, 27568, Germany
| | - Ryan R Reisinger
- Centre d'Etudes Biologique de Chizé, UMR 7372 du Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - La Rochelle Université, Villiers-en-Bois, 79360, France
| | - Grace K Saba
- Center for Ocean Observing Leadership, Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences, Rutgers University, 71 Dudley Rd., New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, U.S.A
| | - Irene R Schloss
- Instituto Antártico Argentino, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Centro Austral de Investigaciones Científicas, Bernardo Houssay 200, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, CP V9410CAB, Argentina.,Universidad Nacional de Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, CP V9410CAB, Argentina
| | - Camila N Signori
- Oceanographic Institute, University of São Paulo, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, São Paulo, CEP: 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Craig R Smith
- Department of Oceanography, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 1000 Pope Road, Honolulu, HI, 96822, U.S.A
| | - Marino Vacchi
- Institute for the Study of the Anthropic Impacts and the Sustainability of the Marine Environment (IAS), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via de Marini 6, Genoa, 16149, Italy
| | - Cinzia Verde
- Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, Naples, I-80131, Italy
| | - Diana H Wall
- Department of Biology and School of Global Environmental Sustainability, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, U.S.A
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Antarctica’s wilderness fails to capture continent’s biodiversity. Nature 2020; 583:567-571. [DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-2506-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Cajiao D, Albertos B, Tejedo P, Muñoz-Puelles L, Garilleti R, Lara F, Sancho LG, Tirira DG, Simón-Baile D, Reck GK, Olave C, Benayas J. Assessing the conservation values and tourism threats in Barrientos Island, Antarctic Peninsula. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2020; 266:110593. [PMID: 32392143 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Antarctica has been witnessing continued growth of tourism, both in the overall visitation and in the diversity of itineraries and visitor activities. Expanding tourism presents unique business and educational opportunities, but it is also putting immense pressure on Antarctica's natural, and for the most parts, pristine environment. Understanding the effectiveness of different tourism management strategies and instruments, like the Visitor Site Guidelines adopted by the Antarctic Treaty, is fundamental to the sustainable management of Antarctic tourism. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Visitor Site Guidelines and other tourism management actions in reducing impacts to the natural environment and for this, we used Barrientos Island as our case study as this is one of the most popular sites for tourism activities in the Antarctic Peninsula Region. First, we conducted a literature review and biological inventories to enable a thorough description of Barrientos Island's ecological values. The results show that Barrientos Island occupies the third highest biological richness among the top 15 most visited sites in the Antarctic Peninsula Region. We then assessed how tourism use on Barrientos Island affected biodiversity and the environment, and how Visitor Site Guidelines and other management measures helped alleviate these impacts. As intended, these instruments has been positive and valuable by providing operational guidance. However, they may lack significant information for tourism decision-making processes. To this end, we propose an alternative adaptive management approach that can more efficiently conserve biodiversity and environmental values while allowing the development of sustainable tourism activities in Antarctica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Cajiao
- Departamento de Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/ Darwin 2, E-28049, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Ecología Aplicada ECOLAP-USFQ, Universidad de San Francisco de Quito, P.O. Box 1712841, Diego de Robles y Pampite, Cumbayá, Ecuador.
| | - Belén Albertos
- Departamento de Botánica y Geología, Universidad de Valencia, Avda. Vicente Andrés Estellés S/n, E-46100, Burjassot, Spain.
| | - Pablo Tejedo
- Departamento de Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/ Darwin 2, E-28049, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Laura Muñoz-Puelles
- Departamento de Ingeniería Geológica y Minera. Facultad de Ciencias Ambientales y Bioquímica. Campus Real Fábrica de Armas Toledo. Edificio Sabatini. Universidad de Castilla La Mancha. Avenida de Carlos III, 21. 45004, Toledo, Spain.
| | - Ricardo Garilleti
- Departamento de Botánica y Geología, Universidad de Valencia, Avda. Vicente Andrés Estellés S/n, E-46100, Burjassot, Spain.
| | - Francisco Lara
- Departamento de Biología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/ Darwin 2, E-28049, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), c/ Darwin 2, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Leopoldo G Sancho
- Unidad de Botánica. Facultad de Farmacia. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza de Ramón y Cajal, S/n, E-28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Diego G Tirira
- Fundación Mamíferos y Conservación, Urbanización Hacienda Capelo 165, Capelo, Rumiñahui, Ecuador.
| | - Débora Simón-Baile
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Tierra y la Construcción. Universidad de las Fuerzas Amadas ESPE P.O. Box 171-5-231-B, Sangolquí, Ecuador.
| | - Günther K Reck
- Instituto de Ecología Aplicada ECOLAP-USFQ, Universidad de San Francisco de Quito, P.O. Box 1712841, Diego de Robles y Pampite, Cumbayá, Ecuador.
| | - Carlos Olave
- Centro de Estudios del Cuaternario Fuego, Patagonia y Antártica. Fundación CEQUA, Av. España 184 - Punta Arenas, Chile.
| | - Javier Benayas
- Departamento de Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/ Darwin 2, E-28049, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), c/ Darwin 2, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
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Contador T, Gañan M, Bizama G, Fuentes-Jaque G, Morales L, Rendoll J, Simoes F, Kennedy J, Rozzi R, Convey P. Assessing distribution shifts and ecophysiological characteristics of the only Antarctic winged midge under climate change scenarios. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9087. [PMID: 32493944 PMCID: PMC7270094 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65571-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Parts of Antarctica were amongst the most rapidly changing regions of the planet during the second half of the Twentieth Century. Even so, today, most of Antarctica remains in the grip of continental ice sheets, with only about 0.2% of its overall area being ice-free. The continent's terrestrial fauna consists only of invertebrates, with just two native species of insects, the chironomid midges Parochlus steinenii and Belgica antarctica. We integrate ecophysiological information with the development of new high-resolution climatic layers for Antarctica, to better understand how the distribution of P. steinenii may respond to change over the next century under different IPCC climate change scenarios. We conclude that the species has the potential to expand its distribution to include parts of the west and east coasts of the Antarctic Peninsula and even coastal ice-free areas in parts of continental Antarctica. We propose P. steinenii as an effective native sentinel and indicator species of climate change in the Antarctic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Contador
- Sub-Antarctic Biocultural Conservation Program, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile.
- Millennium Nucleus of Invasive Salmonids (INVASAL), Concepción, Chile.
- Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity (IEB-Chile), Santiago de Chile, Chile.
| | - Melisa Gañan
- Sub-Antarctic Biocultural Conservation Program, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile.
| | - Gustavo Bizama
- Laboratory for Research in Environmental Sciences (LARES), Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Environmental Sciences and Natural Renewable Resources, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Guillermo Fuentes-Jaque
- Laboratory for Research in Environmental Sciences (LARES), Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Environmental Sciences and Natural Renewable Resources, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis Morales
- Laboratory for Research in Environmental Sciences (LARES), Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Environmental Sciences and Natural Renewable Resources, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Javier Rendoll
- Sub-Antarctic Biocultural Conservation Program, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
- Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity (IEB-Chile), Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | | | - James Kennedy
- Sub-Antarctic Biocultural Conservation Program, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Texas, USA
| | - Ricardo Rozzi
- Sub-Antarctic Biocultural Conservation Program, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
- Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity (IEB-Chile), Santiago de Chile, Chile
- Department of Philosophy and Religion Studies, University of North Texas, Texas, USA
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Hughes KA, Pescott OL, Peyton J, Adriaens T, Cottier‐Cook EJ, Key G, Rabitsch W, Tricarico E, Barnes DKA, Baxter N, Belchier M, Blake D, Convey P, Dawson W, Frohlich D, Gardiner LM, González‐Moreno P, James R, Malumphy C, Martin S, Martinou AF, Minchin D, Monaco A, Moore N, Morley SA, Ross K, Shanklin J, Turvey K, Vaughan D, Vaux AGC, Werenkraut V, Winfield IJ, Roy HE. Invasive non-native species likely to threaten biodiversity and ecosystems in the Antarctic Peninsula region. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2020; 26:2702-2716. [PMID: 31930639 PMCID: PMC7154743 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.14938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The Antarctic is considered to be a pristine environment relative to other regions of the Earth, but it is increasingly vulnerable to invasions by marine, freshwater and terrestrial non-native species. The Antarctic Peninsula region (APR), which encompasses the Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands and South Orkney Islands, is by far the most invaded part of the Antarctica continent. The risk of introduction of invasive non-native species to the APR is likely to increase with predicted increases in the intensity, diversity and distribution of human activities. Parties that are signatories to the Antarctic Treaty have called for regional assessments of non-native species risk. In response, taxonomic and Antarctic experts undertook a horizon scanning exercise using expert opinion and consensus approaches to identify the species that are likely to present the highest risk to biodiversity and ecosystems within the APR over the next 10 years. One hundred and three species, currently absent in the APR, were identified as relevant for review, with 13 species identified as presenting a high risk of invading the APR. Marine invertebrates dominated the list of highest risk species, with flowering plants and terrestrial invertebrates also represented; however, vertebrate species were thought unlikely to establish in the APR within the 10 year timeframe. We recommend (a) the further development and application of biosecurity measures by all stakeholders active in the APR, including surveillance for species such as those identified during this horizon scanning exercise, and (b) use of this methodology across the other regions of Antarctica. Without the application of appropriate biosecurity measures, rates of introductions and invasions within the APR are likely to increase, resulting in negative consequences for the biodiversity of the whole continent, as introduced species establish and spread further due to climate change and increasing human activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin A. Hughes
- British Antarctic SurveyNatural Environment Research CouncilCambridgeUK
| | | | | | - Tim Adriaens
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO)BrusselsBelgium
| | | | - Gillian Key
- GB Non‐native Species SecretariatAnimal and Plant Health AgencyYorkUK
| | | | | | | | - Naomi Baxter
- Falkland Islands GovernmentStanleyFalkland Islands
| | - Mark Belchier
- Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich IslandsStanleyFalkland Islands
| | - Denise Blake
- Falkland Islands GovernmentStanleyFalkland Islands
| | - Peter Convey
- British Antarctic SurveyNatural Environment Research CouncilCambridgeUK
| | - Wayne Dawson
- Department of BiosciencesDurham UniversityDurhamUK
| | | | - Lauren M. Gardiner
- Sainsbury LaboratoryUniversity of Cambridge HerbariumCambridge UniversityCambridgeUK
| | | | - Ross James
- Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich IslandsStanleyFalkland Islands
| | | | - Stephanie Martin
- The Administrator's OfficeGovernment of Tristan da CunhaEdinburgh of the Seven SeasTristan da Cunha
| | | | - Dan Minchin
- Marine Organism InvestigationsKillaloeIreland
| | - Andrea Monaco
- Directorate Environment and Natural Systems of the Lazio Regional AuthorityRomeItaly
| | - Niall Moore
- GB Non‐native Species SecretariatAnimal and Plant Health AgencyYorkUK
| | - Simon A. Morley
- British Antarctic SurveyNatural Environment Research CouncilCambridgeUK
| | | | - Jonathan Shanklin
- British Antarctic SurveyNatural Environment Research CouncilCambridgeUK
| | | | - David Vaughan
- British Antarctic SurveyNatural Environment Research CouncilCambridgeUK
| | - Alexander G. C. Vaux
- Medical Entomology GroupEmergency Response Science & TechnologyPublic Health EnglandSalisburyUK
| | - Victoria Werenkraut
- Laboratorio EcotonoCentro Regional Universitario BarilocheUniversidad Nacional del Comahue/INIBIOMA‐CONICETBarilocheArgentina
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Abstract
AbstractIn order to set a base line for the observation of planktonic community changes due to global change, protistan plankton sampling in combination with phycotoxin measurements and solid phase adsorption toxin tracking (SPATT) was performed in two bays of King George Island (KGI) in January 2013 and 2014. In addition, SPATT sampling was performed in Potter Cove during a one-year period from January 2014 until January 2015. Known toxigenic taxa were not firmly identified in plankton samples but there was microscopical evidence for background level presence of Dinophysis spp. in the area. This was consistent with environmental conditions during the sampling periods, especially strong mixing of the water column and low water temperatures that do not favor dinoflagellate proliferations. Due to the lack of significant abundance of thecate toxigenic dinoflagellate species in microplankton samples, no phycotoxins were found in net tow samples. In contrast, SPATT sampling revealed the presence of dissolved pectenotoxin-2 (PTX-2) and its hydrolyzed form PTX-2 seco acid in both bays and during the entire one-year sampling period. The presence of dissolved PTX in coastal waters of KGI is strong new evidence for the presence of PTX-producing species, i.e., dinoflagellates of the genus Dinophysis in the area. The presence of phycotoxins and their respective producers, even at the low background concentrations found in this study, may be the seed of possible proliferations of these species under changing environmental conditions. Furthermore, phycotoxins can be used as chemotaxonomic markers for a very specific group of plankton thus allowing to track the presence of this group over time.
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Convey P, Peck LS. Antarctic environmental change and biological responses. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2019; 5:eaaz0888. [PMID: 31807713 PMCID: PMC6881164 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz0888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Antarctica and the surrounding Southern Ocean are facing complex environmental change. Their native biota has adapted to the region's extreme conditions over many millions of years. This unique biota is now challenged by environmental change and the direct impacts of human activity. The terrestrial biota is characterized by considerable physiological and ecological flexibility and is expected to show increases in productivity, population sizes and ranges of individual species, and community complexity. However, the establishment of non-native organisms in both terrestrial and marine ecosystems may present an even greater threat than climate change itself. In the marine environment, much more limited response flexibility means that even small levels of warming are threatening. Changing sea ice has large impacts on ecosystem processes, while ocean acidification and coastal freshening are expected to have major impacts.
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Zbawicka M, Gardner JPA, Wenne R. Cryptic diversity in smooth-shelled mussels on Southern Ocean islands: connectivity, hybridisation and a marine invasion. Front Zool 2019; 16:32. [PMID: 31406494 PMCID: PMC6685288 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-019-0332-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Large numbers of endemic species inhabit subantarctic continental coasts and islands that are characterised by highly variable environmental conditions. Southern hemisphere populations of taxa that are morphologically similar to northern counterparts have traditionally been considered to be extensions of such Northern hemisphere taxa, and may not exhibit differentiation amongst geographically isolated populations in the Southern Ocean. Smooth-shelled blue mussels of the genus Mytilus that exhibit an anti-tropical distribution are a model group to study phylogeography, speciation and hybridisation in the sea, and contribute to the theory and practice of marine biosecurity. Methods We used a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) panel that has the ability to accurately identify reference Northern and Southern hemisphere Mytilus taxa to test for evolutionary differentiation amongst native Southern Ocean island populations. Results Native mussels from the Falkland Islands and the Kerguelen Islands exhibited greatest affinity to native M. platensis d’Orbigny 1846 from the Atlantic coast of South America. The major Southern Ocean current flow from west to east is likely to explain the spreading of M. platensis to remote offshore islands, as adults via the process of rafting or perhaps directly as larvae. SNPs variation revealed that mussels from Tasmania were native and clearly differentiated from all other blue mussel groups in the Southern and Northern hemispheres. The native mussels M. planulatus from Tasmania and from mainland New Zealand (NZ), and tentatively M. aoteanus from the two NZ Southern Ocean offshore island groups (the Auckland Islands and Campbell Island), formed a distinct M. galloprovincialis–like Southern hemisphere group with closest affinity to Northern hemisphere M. galloprovincialis from the Mediterranean Sea. In all cases, the SNPs revealed evidence of hybridisation between two or more distinct taxa. The invasive Northern hemisphere M. galloprovincialis was identified only in Tasmania, amongst native mussels of a distinct Australian M. planulatus lineage. Conclusion Overall, our results reveal that Southern hemisphere island mussels have mixed genome ancestry and are native, not introduced by human activities. The preservation of distinct evolutionary lineages of Southern hemisphere species needs to be an ongoing focus of conservation efforts, given that population sizes on some of the remote offshore oceanic islands will be small and may be more easily adversely affected by invasion and subsequent hybridisation and introgression than larger populations elsewhere. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12983-019-0332-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Zbawicka
- 1Institute of Oceanology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Powstańców Warszawy 55, 81-712 Sopot, Poland
| | - Jonathan P A Gardner
- 2School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, P O Box 600, Wellington, 6140 New Zealand
| | - Roman Wenne
- 1Institute of Oceanology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Powstańców Warszawy 55, 81-712 Sopot, Poland
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