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Chen W, Staneva J, Jacob B, Sánchez-Artús X, Wurpts A. What-if nature-based storm buffers on mitigating coastal erosion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 928:172247. [PMID: 38599407 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Creating ecosystem buffers in intertidal zones, such as seagrass meadows, has gained increasing attention as a nature-based solution for mitigating storm-driven coastal erosion. This study presents what-if scenarios using an integrated model framework to determine the effectiveness and strategies for planting seagrass to reduce coastal erosion. The framework comprises two levels of simulation packages. The first level is a regional-scale coupled hydrodynamic model that simulates the processes of a specific storm and provides boundary forces for the morphodynamic model XBeach to apply at the next level, which simulates nearshore morphological evolution. The framework is applied to the open coast of Norderney in the German Bight of the North Sea. We demonstrate that optimising the location and size of seagrass meadows is crucial to increase the efficiency of onshore sediment erosion mitigation. For a specific depth range, depending on the storm's intensity, the most significant reduction in erosion may not be achieved by starting the meadow at the depth that permits the largest meadow size. To maintain a significant coastal protection effect, seagrass density and stem height should be considered together, ensuring erosion reduction by at least 80 % compared to the unprotected coast. This study provides valuable insights for the design and implementation of seagrass transplantation as a nature-based solution, highlighting the importance of considering location, size, density, and stem height when using seagrass meadows for coastal protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Institute of Coastal Systems-Analysis and Modeling, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Max-Planck-Straße 1, Geesthacht 21502, Germany.
| | - Joanna Staneva
- Institute of Coastal Systems-Analysis and Modeling, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Max-Planck-Straße 1, Geesthacht 21502, Germany
| | - Benjamin Jacob
- Institute of Coastal Systems-Analysis and Modeling, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Max-Planck-Straße 1, Geesthacht 21502, Germany
| | - Xavier Sánchez-Artús
- Departament d'Enginyeria Civili Ambiental, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya (UPC), Barcelona 08034, Spain
| | - Andreas Wurpts
- The Coastal Research Center, Niedersachsischer Landesbetrieb fur Wasserwirtschaft, Jahnstraße 1, Norden 26506, Germany
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2
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Ren Y, Liu S, Luo H, Jiang Z, Liang J, Wu Y, Huang X, Macreadie PI. Seagrass decline weakens sediment organic carbon stability. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 937:173523. [PMID: 38797423 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Seagrass meadows are globally recognized as critical natural carbon sinks, commonly known as 'blue carbon'. However, seagrass decline attributed to escalating human activities and climate change, significantly influences their carbon sequestration capacity. A key aspect in comprehending the impact of seagrass decline on carbon sequestration is understanding how degradation affects the stored blue carbon, primarily consisting of sediment organic carbon (SOC). While it is widely acknowledged that seagrass decline affects the input of organic carbon, little is known about its impact on SOC pool stability. To address this knowledge, we examined variations in total SOC and recalcitrant SOC (RSOC) at a depth of 15 cm in nine seagrass meadows located on the coast of Southern China. Our findings revealed that the ratio of RSOC to SOC (RSOC/SOC) ranged from 27 % to 91 % in the seagrass meadows, and the RSOC/SOC increased slightly with depth. Comparing different seagrass species, we observed that SOC and RSOC stocks were 1.94 and 3.19-fold higher under Halophila beccarii and Halophila ovalis meadows compared to Thalassia hemprichii and Enhalus acoroides meadows. Redundancy and correlation analyses indicated that SOC and RSOC content and stock, as well as the RSOC/SOC ratio, decreased with declining seagrass shoot density, biomass, and coverage. This implies that the loss of seagrass, caused by human activities and climate change, results in a reduction in carbon sequestration stability. Further, the RSOC decreased by 15 %, 29 %, and 40 % under unvegetated areas compared to adjacent Halophila spp., T. hemprichii and E. acoroides meadows, respectively. Given the anticipated acceleration of seagrass decline due to climate change and increasing coastal development, our study provides timely information for developing coastal carbon protection strategies. These strategies should focus on preserving seagrass and restoring damaged seagrass meadows, to maximize their carbon sequestration capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzheng Ren
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Songlin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China.
| | - Hongxue Luo
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Zhijian Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Jiening Liang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Yunchao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Xiaoping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China.
| | - Peter I Macreadie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia; Biosciences and Food Technology Discipline, School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
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3
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van de Leemput IA, Bascompte J, Buddendorf WB, Dakos V, Lever JJ, Scheffer M, van Nes EH. Transformation starts at the periphery of networks where pushback is less. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11344. [PMID: 38762633 PMCID: PMC11102466 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61057-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Complex systems ranging from societies to ecological communities and power grids may be viewed as networks of connected elements. Such systems can go through critical transitions driven by an avalanche of contagious change. Here we ask, where in a complex network such a systemic shift is most likely to start. Intuitively, a central node seems the most likely source of such change. Indeed, topological studies suggest that central nodes can be the Achilles heel for attacks. We argue that the opposite is true for the class of networks in which all nodes tend to follow the state of their neighbors, a category we call two-way pull networks. In this case, a well-connected central node is an unlikely starting point of a systemic shift due to the buffering effect of connected neighbors. As a result, change is most likely to cascade through the network if it spreads first among relatively poorly connected nodes in the periphery. The probability of such initial spread is highest when the perturbation starts from intermediately connected nodes at the periphery, or more specifically, nodes with intermediate degree and relatively low closeness centrality. Our finding is consistent with empirical observations on social innovation, and may be relevant to topics as different as the sources of originality of art, collapse of financial and ecological networks and the onset of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid A van de Leemput
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Jordi Bascompte
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Vasilis Dakos
- Institute Des Sciences de L'Évolution, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE, Montpellier, France
| | - J Jelle Lever
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Marten Scheffer
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Egbert H van Nes
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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4
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Silliman BR, Hensel MJS, Gibert JP, Daleo P, Smith CS, Wieczynski DJ, Angelini C, Paxton AB, Adler AM, Zhang YS, Altieri AH, Palmer TM, Jones HP, Gittman RK, Griffin JN, O'Connor MI, van de Koppel J, Poulsen JR, Rietkerk M, He Q, Bertness MD, van der Heide T, Valdez SR. Harnessing ecological theory to enhance ecosystem restoration. Curr Biol 2024; 34:R418-R434. [PMID: 38714175 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Ecosystem restoration can increase the health and resilience of nature and humanity. As a result, the international community is championing habitat restoration as a primary solution to address the dual climate and biodiversity crises. Yet most ecosystem restoration efforts to date have underperformed, failed, or been burdened by high costs that prevent upscaling. To become a primary, scalable conservation strategy, restoration efficiency and success must increase dramatically. Here, we outline how integrating ten foundational ecological theories that have not previously received much attention - from hierarchical facilitation to macroecology - into ecosystem restoration planning and management can markedly enhance restoration success. We propose a simple, systematic approach to determining which theories best align with restoration goals and are most likely to bolster their success. Armed with a century of advances in ecological theory, restoration practitioners will be better positioned to more cost-efficiently and effectively rebuild the world's ecosystems and support the resilience of our natural resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian R Silliman
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 135 Duke Marine Lab Road, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA.
| | - Marc J S Hensel
- Biological Sciences Department, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA; Nature Coast Biological Station, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Cedar Key, FL 32625, USA
| | - Jean P Gibert
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Pedro Daleo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras (IIMyC), FCEyN, UNMdP-CONICET, CC 1260 Correo Central, B7600WAG, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Carter S Smith
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 135 Duke Marine Lab Road, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA
| | | | - Christine Angelini
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Avery B Paxton
- National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, National Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 101 Pivers Island Road, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA
| | - Alyssa M Adler
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 135 Duke Marine Lab Road, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA
| | - Y Stacy Zhang
- Department of Marine, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Andrew H Altieri
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Todd M Palmer
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Holly P Jones
- Department of Biological Sciences and Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability, and Energy, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA
| | - Rachel K Gittman
- Department of Biology and Coastal Studies Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - John N Griffin
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Mary I O'Connor
- Department of Zoology and Biodiversity Research Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6R 1W4, Canada
| | - Johan van de Koppel
- Department of Estuarine and Delta Systems, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Yerseke, The Netherlands; Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - John R Poulsen
- The Nature Conservancy, 2424 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO 80302, USA; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, PO Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Max Rietkerk
- Department Environmental Sciences, Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Qiang He
- Coastal Ecology Lab, MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Mark D Bertness
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, 90 Witman Street, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Tjisse van der Heide
- Department of Coastal Systems, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ), Den Burg, The Netherlands; Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Stephanie R Valdez
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 135 Duke Marine Lab Road, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA
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5
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Li H, Liu J, Zhang L, Che X, Zhang M, Zhang T. A pilot restoration of Enhalus acoroides by transplanting dislodged rhizome fragments and its effect on the microbial diversity of submarine sediments. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 359:120996. [PMID: 38669885 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120996] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Enhalus acoroides, the largest seagrass species in terms of morphology, has been observed to be declining significantly. In an effort to restore seagrass meadows, we conducted a transplantion utilizing dislodged rhizome fragments of E. acoroides as the donor materials. The growth of transplanted seagrass was monitored over a period of three years, and the impact of seagrass recolonization on sedimentary environment was assessed through analysis of sediment microbial diversity. The transplanted plants displayed notable growth, resulting in the successful recolonization of experimental plots by seagrass. The 3-year data also revealed the following findings: 1) the new shoot recruitment rate (per year) (NSR) of transplanted seagrass was 2.33 in the first year, 1.36 in the second year, and 0.83 in the third year, indicating a rapid initial growth rate of E. acoroides that subsequently slowed down; 2) the numbers of shoots and aboveground biomass of transplanted seagrass had increased by 13.0 and 15.9-fold, respectively, whereas only 3.3 and 5.3-fold increases of the natural seagrass were observed, suggesting that the transplantation of seagrass leads to a significantly accelerated recovery compared to its natural regeneration process. Furthermore, the restoration of E. acoroides resulted in a higher microbial diversity in the submarine sediments within the restoration area, as compared to the adjacent unvegetated area. This suggests that the re-vegetation of E. acoroides has a positive influence on the overall health of the sedimentary environment. This study strongly advocates for the active transplantation of dislodged E. acoroides plants resulting from human activities as a potential approach for future coastal management, specifically for the restoration of E. acoroides meadows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Li
- CAS and Shandong Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, 168 Wenhai Road, Aoshanwei Town, Jimo, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Jianguo Liu
- CAS and Shandong Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, 168 Wenhai Road, Aoshanwei Town, Jimo, Qingdao, 266237, China.
| | - Litao Zhang
- CAS and Shandong Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, 168 Wenhai Road, Aoshanwei Town, Jimo, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Xingkai Che
- CAS and Shandong Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, 168 Wenhai Road, Aoshanwei Town, Jimo, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- CAS and Shandong Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, 168 Wenhai Road, Aoshanwei Town, Jimo, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Tie Zhang
- CAS and Shandong Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, 168 Wenhai Road, Aoshanwei Town, Jimo, Qingdao, 266237, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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6
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Xiong X, Li Y, Zhang C. Cable bacteria: Living electrical conduits for biogeochemical cycling and water environment restoration. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 253:121345. [PMID: 38394932 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121345] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Since the discovery of multicellular cable bacteria in marine sediments in 2012, they have attracted widespread attention and interest due to their unprecedented ability to generate and transport electrical currents over centimeter-scale long-range distances. The cosmopolitan distribution of cable bacteria in both marine and freshwater systems, along with their substantial impact on local biogeochemistry, has uncovered their important role in element cycling and ecosystem functioning of aquatic environments. Considerable research efforts have been devoted to the potential utilization of cable bacteria for various water management purposes during the past few years. However, there lacks a critical summary on the advances and contributions of cable bacteria to biogeochemical cycles and water environment restoration. This review aims to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the current research on cable bacteria, with a particular view on their participation in aquatic biogeochemical cycles and promising applications in water environment restoration. It systematically analyzes (i) the global distribution of cable bacteria in aquatic ecosystems and the major environmental factors affecting their survival, diversity, and composition, (ii) the interactive associations between cable bacteria and other microorganisms as well as aquatic plants and infauna, (iii) the underlying role of cable bacteria in sedimentary biogeochemical cycling of essential elements including but not limited to sulfur, iron, phosphorus, and nitrogen, (iv) the practical explorations of cable bacteria for water pollution control, greenhouse gas emission reduction, aquatic ecological environment restoration, as well as possible combinations with other water remediation technologies. It is believed to give a step-by-step introduction to progress on cable bacteria, highlight key findings, opportunities and challenges of using cable bacteria for water environment restoration, and propose directions for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, PR China
| | - Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, PR China.
| | - Chi Zhang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hohai University, Changzhou 213200, PR China.
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7
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Pansini A, Deroma M, Guala I, Monnier B, Pergent-Martini C, Piazzi L, Stipcich P, Ceccherelli G. The resilience of transplanted seagrass traits encourages detection of restoration success. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 357:120744. [PMID: 38552518 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120744] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Restoration of coastal ecosystems, particularly those dominated by seagrasses, has become a priority to recover the important ecosystem services they provide. However, assessing restoration outcomes as a success or failure remains still difficult, probably due to the unique features of seagrass species and the wide portfolio of practices used on transplanting actions. Here, several traits (maximum leaf length, number of leaves, leaf growth rate per shoot, and leaf elemental carbon and nitrogen contents) of transplanted seagrass Posidonia oceanica were compared to reference meadows in five sites of Western Mediterranean Sea in which restoration were completed in different times. Results have evidenced the resilience of transplanted P. oceanica shoots within a few years since restoration, as traits between treatments changed depending on the elapsed time since settlement. The highlighted stability of the restoration time effect suggests that the recovery of the plants is expected in four years after transplanting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Pansini
- University of Sassari, Department of Chemical, Physical, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, via Piandanna 4, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Mario Deroma
- University of Sassari, Department of Agricultural Sciences, viale Italia 39/a, Sassari, Italy
| | - Ivan Guala
- University of Sassari, Department of Chemical, Physical, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, via Piandanna 4, Sassari, Italy; IMC - International Marine Centre, Loc. Sa Mardini, Torregrande, 09170, Oristano, Italy
| | - Briac Monnier
- University of Corsica Pasquale Paoli, CNRS UMR SPE, 6134, Campus Grimaldi BP 52, Corte, France
| | | | - Luigi Piazzi
- University of Sassari, Department of Chemical, Physical, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, via Piandanna 4, Sassari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Stipcich
- University of Sassari, Department of Chemical, Physical, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, via Piandanna 4, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giulia Ceccherelli
- University of Sassari, Department of Chemical, Physical, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, via Piandanna 4, Sassari, Italy
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8
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Gambi C, Corinaldesi C, Dell'Anno A, Danovaro R. Effects of seagrass (Cymodocea nodosa) restoration on nematode biodiversity. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 193:106301. [PMID: 38113588 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.106301] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Seagrass meadows are hot spots of biodiversity and play a key role in the provisioning of ecosystem goods and services but are often subjected to a regression due to a combination of multiple anthropogenic and climate-induced impacts. The ecological restoration of these habitat-forming species is a priority to reverse biodiversity loss and for the recovery of key ecosystem functions. Here we investigated the effects of seagrass (Cymodocea nodosa) restoration action on benthic biodiversity recovery assessed by a time-series analysis carried out for one year. We used nematode assemblages, the most widespread metazoan on global sediments, as a proxy of benthic biodiversity and compared the species richness, expected species number (ES51) and composition in donor and in restored seagrasses and in the adjacent unvegetated sediments. One year after the intervention, nematode biodiversity in restored seagrasses was more similar to that of the donor site than in unvegetated sediments, suggesting a progressive recovery. Overall, the nematode biodiversity of the restored seagrasses resulted in an intermediate level between unvegetated and pristine seagrass meadows, providing evidence that restoration intervention contributed to biodiversity recovery. Pristine and restored seagrass meadows hosted a high number of exclusive species, which resulted in an increase in the overall biodiversity in the investigated location. Our results indicate that the restoration of seagrass meadows has positive effects on benthic biodiversity and contributes to enhance the local biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Gambi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Corinaldesi
- Department of Materials, Environmental Sciences and Urban Planning, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131, Ancona, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Centre (NBFC), Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Dell'Anno
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Centre (NBFC), Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto Danovaro
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Centre (NBFC), Palermo, Italy
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9
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Liu S, Ren Y, Jiang Z, Luo H, Zhang X, Wu Y, Liang J, Huang X, Macreadie PI. Changes in surface sediment carbon compositions in response to tropical seagrass meadow restoration. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166565. [PMID: 37633380 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Seagrass meadows are declining at a global scale, threatening their capacity as blue carbon sinks. Restoration of seagrasses (via seagrass seeds or plant transplantation) may recover their carbon sequestration capacity. Previous studies have predominantly focused on sediment organic carbon (SOC), while variations in sediment carbon compositions remain poorly understood, limiting our comprehension of the influence of seagrass restoration on sediment carbon stability. Here, we researched the differences in surface (0-3 cm) sediment carbon compositions in response to tropical seagrass transplantation among species (Thalassia hemprichii and Enhalus acoroides); specifically, differences in labile, recalcitrant and refractory SOC, as well as sediment inorganic carbon (SIC) compositions variations under transplanted T. hemprichii and E. acoroides communities. It was found that seagrass transplantation enhanced suspended particle organic matter, and epiphyte and macroalgae input to surface sediment, which recovered the surface SOC concentration and stock rapidly to natural levels (increased ∼1.6-fold) within two years following transplantation. The elevated contribution of epiphyte and macroalgae significantly increased the surface labile sediment organic matter (SOM), but not the recalcitrant and refractory SOM composition after short-term transplantation. Meanwhile, surface SIC was significantly elevated, which might be mainly ascribed to allochthonous carbonate particle trapped under transplanted area with implications for carbon sequestration. The higher canopy and longer leaf seagrass species, E. acoroides, had elevated SOC, SIC and was more labile composition, compared to T. hemprichii transplant. Overall, this research suggests that tropical seagrass transplantation can increase the surface SOC, SIC concentration by increasing the labile organic matter and allochthonous carbonate particle input, respectively, with varying significantly among seagrass species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songlin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Sanya Institute of Ocean Eco-Environmental Engineering, Sanya 572100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Yuzheng Ren
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Sanya Institute of Ocean Eco-Environmental Engineering, Sanya 572100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Zhijian Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Sanya Institute of Ocean Eco-Environmental Engineering, Sanya 572100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Hongxue Luo
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Sanya Institute of Ocean Eco-Environmental Engineering, Sanya 572100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Sanya Institute of Ocean Eco-Environmental Engineering, Sanya 572100, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Yunchao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Sanya Institute of Ocean Eco-Environmental Engineering, Sanya 572100, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Jiening Liang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Sanya Institute of Ocean Eco-Environmental Engineering, Sanya 572100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Xiaoping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Sanya Institute of Ocean Eco-Environmental Engineering, Sanya 572100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China.
| | - Peter I Macreadie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
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Temmink RJM, Angelini C, Verkuijl M, van der Heide T. Restoration ecology meets design-engineering: Mimicking emergent traits to restore feedback-driven ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166460. [PMID: 37611724 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166460] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Ecosystems shaped by habitat-modifying organisms such as reefs, vegetated coastal systems and peatlands, provide valuable ecosystem services, such as carbon storage and coastal protection. However, they are declining worldwide. Ecosystem restoration is a key tool for mitigating these losses but has proven failure-prone, because ecosystem stability often hinges on self-facilitation generated by emergent traits from habitat modifiers. Emergent traits are not expressed by the single individual, but emerge at the level of an aggregation: a minimum patch-size or density-threshold must be exceeded to generate self-facilitation. Self-facilitation has been successfully harnessed for restoration by clumping transplanted organisms, but requires large amounts of often-limiting and costly donor material. Recent advancements highlight that kickstarting self-facilitation by mimicking emergent traits can similarly increase restoration success. Here, we provide a framework for combining expertise from ecologists, engineers and industrial product designers to transition from trial-and-error to emergent trait design-based, cost-efficient approaches to support large-scale restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph J M Temmink
- Environmental Sciences, Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, Princetonlaan 8a, 3584 CB Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Christine Angelini
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, Engineering School for Sustainable Infrastructure and Environment, University of Florida, PO Box 116580, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Martijn Verkuijl
- Department of Industrial Design Engineering, Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, Koestraat 3, 8011NG Zwolle, the Netherlands
| | - Tjisse van der Heide
- Department of Coastal Systems, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, 1790 AB Den Burg, the Netherlands; Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, the Netherlands
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11
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Crespo D, Faião R, Freitas V, Oliveira VH, Sousa AI, Coelho JP, Dolbeth M. Using seagrass as a nature-based solution: Short-term effects of Zostera noltei transplant in benthic communities of a European Atlantic coastal lagoon. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 197:115762. [PMID: 37979526 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115762] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Seagrass meadows provide several ecological functions that improve the overall ecological health of coastal systems and therefore, it is urgent to promote the restoration of such habitats. In Ria de Aveiro, a coastal lagoon in the Atlantic Coast of Portugal, a restoration initiative was responsible for transplanting the dwarf eelgrass Zostera noltei into a highly degraded area. This eelgrass was used as a nature-based solution (NbS) to mitigate some of the impacts of historical mercury contamination. Comparisons of key-species features (density and biomass), and some community-derived indicators (total density and biomass, species richness and Shannon-Wiener index) between the transplanted seagrass patch, their bare vicinities, and their counterpart habitats on the source area, provided signs of the effectiveness of the restoration action on the benthic communities' recovery. Indicators were higher within the restored meadow, and biomass derived indicators of the restored meadow were similar to the source meadow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Crespo
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Novo Edifício do Terminal de Cruzeiros, Avenida General Norton de Matos S/N, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal; CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Rita Faião
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Novo Edifício do Terminal de Cruzeiros, Avenida General Norton de Matos S/N, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Vânia Freitas
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Novo Edifício do Terminal de Cruzeiros, Avenida General Norton de Matos S/N, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
| | - Vitor Hugo Oliveira
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Ana I Sousa
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - João Pedro Coelho
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Marina Dolbeth
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Novo Edifício do Terminal de Cruzeiros, Avenida General Norton de Matos S/N, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
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12
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Zhang Y, Yue S, Liu M, Wang X, Xu S, Zhang X, Zhou Y. Combined transcriptome and proteome analysis reveal the key physiological processes in seed germination stimulated by decreased salinity in the seagrass Zostera marina L. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 23:605. [PMID: 38030999 PMCID: PMC10688091 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-023-04616-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zostera marina L., or eelgrass, is the most widespread seagrass species throughout the temperate northern hemisphere. Unlike the dry seeds of terrestrial plants, eelgrass seeds must survive in water, and salinity is the key factor influencing eelgrass seed germination. In the present study, transcriptome and proteome analysis were combined to investigate the mechanisms via which eelgrass seed germination was stimulated by low salinity, in addition to the dynamics of key metabolic pathways under germination. RESULTS According to the results, low salinity stimulated the activation of Ca2+ signaling and phosphatidylinositol signaling, and further initiated various germination-related physiological processes through the MAPK transduction cascade. Starch, lipids, and storage proteins were mobilized actively to provide the energy and material basis for germination; abscisic acid synthesis and signal transduction were inhibited whereas gibberellin synthesis and signal transduction were activated, weakening seed dormancy and preparing for germination; cell wall weakening and remodeling processes were activated to provide protection for cotyledon protrusion; in addition, multiple antioxidant systems were activated to alleviate oxidative stress generated during the germination process; ERF transcription factor has the highest number in both stages suggested an active role in eelgrass seed germination. CONCLUSION In summary, for the first time, the present study investigated the mechanisms by which eelgrass seed germination was stimulated by low salinity and analyzed the transcriptomic and proteomic features during eelgrass seed germination comprehensively. The results of the present study enhanced our understanding of seagrass seed germination, especially the molecular ecology of seagrass seeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Shidong Yue
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Mingjie Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Xinhua Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Shaochun Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China.
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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Watson KM, Pillay D, von der Heyden S. Using transplantation to restore seagrass meadows in a protected South African lagoon. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16500. [PMID: 38047028 PMCID: PMC10693235 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Seagrass meadows provide valuable ecosystem services but are threatened by global change pressures, and there is growing concern that the functions seagrasses perform within an ecosystem will be reduced or lost without intervention. Restoration has become an integral part of coastal management in response to major seagrass declines, but is often context dependent, requiring an assessment of methods to maximise restoration success. Here we investigate the use of different restoration strategies for the endangered Zostera capensis in South Africa. Methods We assessed restoration feasibility by establishing seagrass transplant plots based on different transplant source materials (diameter (ø) 10 cm cores and anchored individual shoots), planting patterns (line, dense, bullseye) and planting site (upper, upper-mid and mid-intertidal zones). Monitoring of area cover, shoot length, and macrofaunal diversity was conducted over 18 months. Results Mixed model analysis showed distinct effects of transplant material used, planting pattern and site on transplant survival and area cover. Significant declines in seagrass cover across all treatments was recorded post-transplantation (2 months), followed by a period of recovery. Of the transplants that persisted after 18 months of monitoring (~58% plots survived across all treatments), seagrass area cover increased (~112%) and in some cases expanded by over >400% cover, depending on type of transplant material, planting arrangement and site. Higher bioturbator pressure from sandprawns (Kraussillichirus kraussi) significantly reduced transplant survival and area cover. Transplant plots were colonised by invertebrates, including seagrass specialists, such as South Africa's most endangered marine invertebrate, the false-eelgrass limpet (Siphonaria compressa). For future seagrass restoration projects, transplanting cores was deemed the best method, showing higher long-term persistence and cover, however this approach is also resource intensive with potentially negative impacts on donor meadows at larger scales. There is a clear need for further research to address Z. capensis restoration scalability and improve long-term transplant persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M. Watson
- Department of Botany and Zoology, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Deena Pillay
- Marine and Antarctic Centre for Innovation and Sustainability, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sophie von der Heyden
- Department of Botany and Zoology, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- School of Climate Studies, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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14
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Villanueva R, Paul M, Schlurmann T. Wave dynamics alteration by discontinuous flexible mats of artificial seagrass can support seagrass restoration efforts. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19418. [PMID: 37940669 PMCID: PMC10632504 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46612-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Seagrass restoration can be promoted through the use of artificial seagrass (ASG). However, there is no guideline for ASG design, which requires a sound understanding of the inherent hydrodynamics in a submerged environment. Present know-how primarily stems from idealized ASG attached to a fixed bed. To develop accessible field deployment for restoration, anchored prototype scale ASG mats (coconut mesh) were proposed and tested under differing wave conditions. The aim of this study was then to: 1) analyze hydrodynamic interaction of ASG mats; and 2) assess the suitability of contemporary predictive hydrodynamic models. Velocity structure and wave propagation were measured around one and two ASG mats (separated by a 2-m gap). The mats reduced orbital velocities by up to 16% (2 mats), whereby the average reduction of all tested vegetated conditions was low ([Formula: see text]) compared to the non-vegetated conditions. Velocities increased above the ASG, with the gap enhancing velocity (up to 11%) instead of attenuating it. Wave decay followed an exponential decrease, further enhanced by the second mat. Current models did not capture the induced hydrodynamics for the full range of wave conditions tested, with the second mat increasing uncertainties. Wave decay models generally overestimated wave attenuation (up to 30%), except for longer wave periods. Nevertheless, for the full range of conditions, the models provide accurate insight into the expected magnitude of attenuation under field conditions. It is speculated that mat flexibility affects the surrounding hydrodynamics through inherent motion, with the gap contributing to the uncertainties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Villanueva
- Ludwig Franzius Institute for Hydraulic, Estuarine and Coastal Engineering, Leibniz University Hannover, 30167, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Maike Paul
- Ludwig Franzius Institute for Hydraulic, Estuarine and Coastal Engineering, Leibniz University Hannover, 30167, Hannover, Germany
| | - Torsten Schlurmann
- Ludwig Franzius Institute for Hydraulic, Estuarine and Coastal Engineering, Leibniz University Hannover, 30167, Hannover, Germany
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15
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Minguito-Frutos M, Adams MP, Alcoverro T, Vilas MP, Alonso D, Mayol E, Bernardeu-Esteller J, Marín-Guirao L, Ruiz JM, Boada J. Quantifying the role of photoacclimation and self-facilitation for seagrass resilience to light deprivation. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1186538. [PMID: 37546272 PMCID: PMC10401047 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1186538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Light gradients are ubiquitous in marine systems as light reduces exponentially with depth. Seagrasses have a set of mechanisms that help them to cope with light stress gradients. Physiological photoacclimation and clonal integration help to maximize light capture and minimize carbon losses. These mechanisms can shape plants minimum light requirements (MLR), which establish critical thresholds for seagrass survival and help us predict ecosystem responses to the alarming reduction in light availability. Methods Using the seagrass Cymodocea nodosa as a case study, we compare the MLR under different carbon model scenarios, which include photoacclimation and/or self-facilitation (based on clonal integration) and that where parameterized with values from field experiments. Results Physiological photoacclimation conferred plants with increased tolerance to reducing light, approximately halving their MLR from 5-6% surface irradiance (SI) to ≈ 3% SI. In oligotrophic waters, this change in MLR could translate to an increase of several meters in their depth colonization limit. In addition, we show that reduced mortality rates derived from self-facilitation mechanisms (promoted by high biomass) induce bistability of seagrass meadows along the light stress gradient, leading to abrupt shifts and hysteretic behaviors at their deep limit. Discussion The results from our models point to (i) the critical role of physiological photoacclimation in conferring greater resistance and ability to recover (i.e., resilience), to seagrasses facing light deprivation and (ii) the importance of self-facilitating reinforcing mechanisms in driving the resilience and recovery of seagrass systems exposed to severe light reduction events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Minguito-Frutos
- Centre d’Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Carrer d’Accés a la cala Sant Francesc, Girona, Spain
| | - Matthew P. Adams
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Data Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Teresa Alcoverro
- Centre d’Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Carrer d’Accés a la cala Sant Francesc, Girona, Spain
| | - María P. Vilas
- Department of Environment and Science, Queensland Government, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David Alonso
- Centre d’Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Carrer d’Accés a la cala Sant Francesc, Girona, Spain
| | - Elvira Mayol
- Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Global Change Research, IMEDEA (Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies) (UIB-CSIC), Esporles, Spain
| | - Jaime Bernardeu-Esteller
- Seagrass Ecology Group, Oceanographic Center of Murcia, Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO-CSIC), Murcia, Spain
| | - Lázaro Marín-Guirao
- Seagrass Ecology Group, Oceanographic Center of Murcia, Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO-CSIC), Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan M. Ruiz
- Seagrass Ecology Group, Oceanographic Center of Murcia, Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO-CSIC), Murcia, Spain
| | - Jordi Boada
- Centre d’Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Carrer d’Accés a la cala Sant Francesc, Girona, Spain
- Laboratoire d’Océanographie de Villefranche-sur-Mer, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Villefranche sur mer, France
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16
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Arroyo-Esquivel J, Baskett ML, McPherson M, Hastings A. How far to build it before they come? Analyzing the use of the Field of Dreams hypothesis in bull kelp restoration. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2023; 33:e2850. [PMID: 36942610 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2850] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
In restoration ecology, the Field of Dreams hypothesis posits that restoration efforts that create a suitable environment could lead to the eventual recovery of the remaining aspects of the ecosystem through natural processes. Natural processes following partial restoration has led to ecosystem recovery in both terrestrial and aquatic systems. However, understanding the efficacy of a "Field of Dreams" approach requires a comparison of different approaches to partial restoration in terms of spatial, temporal, and ecological scale with what would happen given more comprehensive restoration efforts. We explore the relative effect of partial restoration and ongoing recovery on restoration efficacy with a dynamical model based on temperate rocky reefs in Northern California. We analyze our model for both the ability and rate of bull kelp forest recovery under different restoration strategies. We compare the efficacy of a partial restoration approach with a more comprehensive restoration effort by exploring how kelp recovery likelihood and rate change with varying intensities of urchin removal and kelp outplanting over different time periods and spatial scales. We find that, in the case of bull kelp forests, setting more favorable initial conditions for kelp recovery by implementing both urchin harvesting and kelp outplanting at the start of the restoration project has a bigger impact on the kelp recovery rate than applying restoration efforts through a longer period of time. Therefore, partial restoration efforts, in terms of spatial and temporal scale, can be significantly more effective when applied across multiple ecological scales in terms of both the capacity and rate for achieving the target outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marissa L Baskett
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Meredith McPherson
- Department of Ocean Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Alan Hastings
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
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17
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Smith RS, Castorani MCN. Meta-analysis reveals drivers of restoration success for oysters and reef community. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2023:e2865. [PMID: 37186401 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Restoration aims to reverse global declines of foundation species, but it is unclear how project attributes, the physical setting, and antecedent conditions affect restoration success. In coastal seas worldwide, oyster reef restoration is increasing to counter historic habitat destruction and associated declines in fisheries production and biodiversity. Yet, restoration outcomes are highly variable and the factors that enhance oyster production and nekton abundance and diversity on restored reefs are unresolved. To quantify the drivers of oyster restoration success, we used meta-analysis to synthesize data from 158 restored reefs paired with unstructured habitats along the U.S. Gulf and Atlantic coasts. The average recovery of oyster production was 65% greater in subtidal (vs. intertidal) zones, 173% greater in polyhaline (vs. mesohaline) environments and increased with tidal range, demonstrating that physical conditions can strongly influence the restoration success of foundation species. Additionally, restoration increased the relative abundance and richness of nektonic fishes and invertebrates over time as reefs aged (at least 8 years post-construction). Thus, the restoration benefits for provisioning habitat and enhancing biodiversity accrue over time, highlighting that restoration projects need multiple years to maximize ecosystem functions. Furthermore, long-term monitoring of restored and control sites is needed to assess restoration outcomes and associated drivers. Lastly, our work reveals data constraints for several potential drivers of restoration outcomes, including reef construction material, reef dimensions, harvest pressure and disease prevalence. More experimental and observational studies are needed to target these factors and measure them with consistent methods across studies. Our findings indicate that the assisted recovery of foundation species yields several enhancements to ecosystem services, but such benefits are mediated by time and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Smith
- Marine Science Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Max C N Castorani
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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18
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Pansini A, Beca-Carretero P, Berlino M, Sarà G, Stengel DB, Stipcich P, Ceccherelli G. Field development of Posidonia oceanica seedlings changes under predicted acidification conditions. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 186:105946. [PMID: 36917890 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.105946] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Ocean acidification has been consistently evidenced to have profound and lasting impacts on marine species. Observations have shown seagrasses to be highly susceptible to future increased pCO2 conditions, but the responses of early life stages as seedlings are poorly understood. This study aimed at evaluating how projected Mediterranean Sea acidification affects the survival, morphological and biochemical development of Posidonia oceanica seedlings through a long-term field experiment along a natural low pH gradient. Future ocean conditions seem to constrain the morphological development of seedlings. However, high pCO2 exposures caused an initial increase in the degree of saturation of fatty acids in leaves and then improved the fatty acid adjustment increasing unsaturation levels in leaves (but not in seeds), suggesting a nutritional compound translocation. Results also suggested a P. oceanica structural components remodelling which may counteract the effects of ocean acidification but would not enhance seagrass seedling productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Pansini
- Dipartimento di Architettura, Design e Urbanistica, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Piandanna 4, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Pedro Beca-Carretero
- Department of Oceanography, Instituto de Investigacións Mariñas (IIM-CSIC), 36208, Vigo, Spain; Botany and Plant Science, School of Natural Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Manuel Berlino
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DISTEM), Università di Palermo, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sarà
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DISTEM), Università di Palermo, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Dagmar B Stengel
- Botany and Plant Science, School of Natural Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Patrizia Stipcich
- Dipartimento di Architettura, Design e Urbanistica, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Piandanna 4, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giulia Ceccherelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Fisiche, Matematiche e Naturali, Università degli Studi di Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
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19
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Smith RS, Cheng SL, Castorani MCN. Meta-analysis of ecosystem services associated with oyster restoration. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2023; 37:e13966. [PMID: 35686509 PMCID: PMC10087230 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13966] [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: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Restoration of foundation species promises to reverse environmental degradation and return lost ecosystem services, but a lack of standardized evaluation across projects limits understanding of recovery, especially in marine systems. Oyster reefs are restored to reverse massive global declines and reclaim valuable ecosystem services, but the success of these projects has not been systematically and comprehensively quantified. We synthesized data on ecosystem services associated with oyster restoration from 245 pairs of restored and degraded reefs and 136 pairs of restored and reference reefs across 3500 km of U.S. Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coastlines. On average, restoration was associated with a 21-fold increase in oyster production (mean log response ratio = 3.08 [95% confidence interval: 2.58-3.58]), 34-97% enhancement of habitat provisioning (mean community abundance = 0.51 [0.41-0.61], mean richness = 0.29 [0.19-0.39], and mean biomass = 0.69 [0.39-0.99]), 54% more nitrogen removal (mean = 0.43 [0.13-0.73]), and 89-95% greater sediment nutrients (mean = 0.67 [0.27-1.07]) and organic matter (mean = 0.64 [0.44-0.84]) relative to degraded habitats. Moreover, restored reefs matched reference reefs for these ecosystem services. Our results support the continued and expanded use of oyster restoration to enhance ecosystem services of degraded coastal systems and match many functions provided by reference reefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Smith
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Selina L Cheng
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Max C N Castorani
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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20
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Eckardt NA, Ainsworth EA, Bahuguna RN, Broadley MR, Busch W, Carpita NC, Castrillo G, Chory J, DeHaan LR, Duarte CM, Henry A, Jagadish SVK, Langdale JA, Leakey ADB, Liao JC, Lu KJ, McCann MC, McKay JK, Odeny DA, Jorge de Oliveira E, Platten JD, Rabbi I, Rim EY, Ronald PC, Salt DE, Shigenaga AM, Wang E, Wolfe M, Zhang X. Climate change challenges, plant science solutions. THE PLANT CELL 2023; 35:24-66. [PMID: 36222573 PMCID: PMC9806663 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koac303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is a defining challenge of the 21st century, and this decade is a critical time for action to mitigate the worst effects on human populations and ecosystems. Plant science can play an important role in developing crops with enhanced resilience to harsh conditions (e.g. heat, drought, salt stress, flooding, disease outbreaks) and engineering efficient carbon-capturing and carbon-sequestering plants. Here, we present examples of research being conducted in these areas and discuss challenges and open questions as a call to action for the plant science community.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth A Ainsworth
- USDA ARS Global Change and Photosynthesis Research Unit, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Rajeev N Bahuguna
- Centre for Advanced Studies on Climate Change, Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur 848125, Bihar, India
| | - Martin R Broadley
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Rothamsted Research, West Common, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ, UK
| | - Wolfgang Busch
- Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Nicholas C Carpita
- Biosciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, USA
| | - Gabriel Castrillo
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Future Food Beacon of Excellence, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Joanne Chory
- Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | | | - Carlos M Duarte
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC) and Computational Bioscience Research Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amelia Henry
- International Rice Research Institute, Rice Breeding Innovations Platform, Los Baños, Laguna 4031, Philippines
| | - S V Krishna Jagadish
- Department of Plant and Soil Science, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79410, USA
| | - Jane A Langdale
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RB, UK
| | - Andrew D B Leakey
- Department of Plant Biology, Department of Crop Sciences, and Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - James C Liao
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11528, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Jen Lu
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11528, Taiwan
| | - Maureen C McCann
- Biosciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, USA
| | - John K McKay
- Department of Agricultural Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, USA
| | - Damaris A Odeny
- The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics–Eastern and Southern Africa, Gigiri 39063-00623, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - J Damien Platten
- International Rice Research Institute, Rice Breeding Innovations Platform, Los Baños, Laguna 4031, Philippines
| | - Ismail Rabbi
- International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), PMB 5320 Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - Ellen Youngsoo Rim
- Department of Plant Pathology and the Genome Center, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Pamela C Ronald
- Department of Plant Pathology and the Genome Center, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, Berkeley, California 94704, USA
| | - David E Salt
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Future Food Beacon of Excellence, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Alexandra M Shigenaga
- Department of Plant Pathology and the Genome Center, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Ertao Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Marnin Wolfe
- Auburn University, Dept. of Crop Soil and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn, Alabama 36849, USA
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
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21
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Pansini A, Bosch-Belmar M, Berlino M, Sarà G, Ceccherelli G. Collating evidence on the restoration efforts of the seagrass Posidonia oceanica: current knowledge and gaps. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 851:158320. [PMID: 36037894 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158320] [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: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Seagrass meadows are important shallow coastal ecosystems due to their contribution to enhancing biodiversity, nutrient cycling, carbon burial, and sediment stabilisation, but the maintenance of their integrity has been threatened by several anthropogenic disturbances. Active restoration is considered a reliable strategy to enhance recovery of seagrass ecosystems, and decision making for correct seagrass restoration management requires relying on valuable information regarding the effectiveness of past restoration actions and experimental efforts. Previous experimental efforts and human-mediated active restoration actions of the slow growing seagrass Posidonia oceanica have been collated here by combining a literature systematic review and questionnaires consulting seagrass ecology experts. Overall, the poor consistency of the available information on P. oceanica restoration may be due to the wide portfolio of practices and methodologies used in different conditions, that supports the need of further field manipulative experiments in various environmental contexts to fill the identified knowledge gaps. The current situation requires an international, collaborative effort from scientists and stakeholders to jointly design the future strategy forward in identifying the best practices that lead to efficient restorations of P. oceanica habitat and functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Pansini
- Dipartimento di Architettura, Design, Urbanistica, Università di Sassari, Via Piandanna 4, Sassari 07100, Italy.
| | - Mar Bosch-Belmar
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DISTEM), Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 22, Palermo 90123, Italy
| | - Manuel Berlino
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DISTEM), Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 22, Palermo 90123, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sarà
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DISTEM), Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 22, Palermo 90123, Italy
| | - Giulia Ceccherelli
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Sassari, Via Piandanna 4, Sassari 07100, Italy
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22
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Tarsa EE, Holdaway BM, Kettenring KM. Tipping the balance: The role of seed density, abiotic filters, and priority effects in seed-based wetland restoration. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2022; 32:e2706. [PMID: 35808932 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sowing native seeds is a common approach to reintroduce native plants to degraded systems. However, this method is often overlooked in wetland restoration despite the immense global loss of diverse native wetland vegetation. Developing guiding principles for seed-based wetland restoration is critical to maximize native plant recovery, particularly in previously invaded wetlands. Doing so requires a comprehensive understanding of how restoration manipulations, and their interactions, influence wetland plant community assembly. With a focus on the invader Phragmites australis, we established a series of mesocosm experiments to assess how native sowing density, invader propagule pressure, abiotic filters (water and nutrients), and native sowing timing (i.e., priority effects) interact to influence plant community cover and biomass in wetland habitats. Increasing the density of native seeds yielded higher native cover and biomass, but P. australis suppression with increasing sowing densities was minimal. Rather, community outcomes were largely driven by invader propagule pressure: P. australis densities of ≤500 seeds/m2 maintained high native cover and biomass. Low-water conditions increased the susceptibility of P. australis to dominance by native competitors. Early sowing of native seeds showed a large and significant benefit to native cover and biomass, regardless of native sowing density, suggesting that priority effects can be an effective restoration manipulation to enhance native plant establishment. Given the urgent wetland restoration need combined with the limited studies on seed-based wetland restoration, these findings provide guidance on restoration manipulations that are grounded in ecological theory to improve seed-based wetland restoration outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E Tarsa
- Ecology Center and Department of Watershed Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Bailey M Holdaway
- Ecology Center and Department of Watershed Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Karin M Kettenring
- Ecology Center and Department of Watershed Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
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23
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Unsworth R, Rees S, Bertelli C, Esteban N, Furness E, Walter B. Nutrient additions to seagrass seed planting improve seedling emergence and growth. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:1013222. [PMID: 36507401 PMCID: PMC9728802 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1013222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
To maximize the opportunities of seagrass as a nature-based solution requires restoration to occur on a large scale. New methods and knowledge are required that can solve ecological bottlenecks, improving its reliability and effectiveness. Although there is increasing interest in the use of seeds for seagrass restoration there exists a limited understanding of how best to plant them with the most knowledge on germination and seedling emergence coming from laboratory studies. Here we present the results of a novel field study on the emergence success of seeds of the seagrass Zostera marina when subjected to varied planting treatments. Seeds were planted into hessian bags according to a factorial design of three treatments (sediment type, detritus addition, and nutrient addition). By adding nutrients to natural sediment, the present study provides some evidence of seagrass shoot emergence and maximum shoot length doubling. The present study provides evidence that even in heavily nutrient-rich environments, seagrass sediments may require additional nutrients to improve seedling emergence and growth. It also highlights the highly variable nature of planting seagrass seeds in shallow coastal environments. Critically this study provides increasing levels of evidence that small subtleties in the method can have large consequences for seagrass restoration and that for restoration to scale to levels that are relevant for nature-based solutions there remain many unknowns that require consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- R.K.F. Unsworth
- Seagrass Ecosystem Research Group, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Project Seagrass, The Yard, Cardiff, Wales, Bridgend, United Kingdom
| | - S.C. Rees
- Seagrass Ecosystem Research Group, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Project Seagrass, The Yard, Cardiff, Wales, Bridgend, United Kingdom
| | - C.M. Bertelli
- Seagrass Ecosystem Research Group, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - N.E. Esteban
- Seagrass Ecosystem Research Group, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - E.J. Furness
- Seagrass Ecosystem Research Group, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Project Seagrass, The Yard, Cardiff, Wales, Bridgend, United Kingdom
| | - B. Walter
- Project Seagrass, The Yard, Cardiff, Wales, Bridgend, United Kingdom
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24
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Sievers M, Brown CJ, Buelow CA, Hale R, Ostrowski A, Saunders MI, Silliman BR, Swearer SE, Turschwell MP, Valdez SR, Connolly RM. Greater Consideration of Animals Will Enhance Coastal Restoration Outcomes. Bioscience 2022; 72:1088-1098. [PMID: 36325106 PMCID: PMC9618274 DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biac088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
As efforts to restore coastal habitats accelerate, it is critical that investments are targeted to most effectively mitigate and reverse habitat loss and its impacts on biodiversity. One likely but largely overlooked impediment to effective restoration of habitat-forming organisms is failing to explicitly consider non-habitat-forming animals in restoration planning, implementation, and monitoring. These animals can greatly enhance or degrade ecosystem function, persistence, and resilience. Bivalves, for instance, can reduce sulfide stress in seagrass habitats and increase drought tolerance of saltmarsh vegetation, whereas megaherbivores can detrimentally overgraze seagrass or improve seagrass seed germination, depending on the context. Therefore, understanding when, why, and how to directly manipulate or support animals can enhance coastal restoration outcomes. In support of this expanded restoration approach, we provide a conceptual framework, incorporating lessons from structured decision-making, and describe potential actions that could lead to better restoration outcomes using case studies to illustrate practical approaches.
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25
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Predicting shifts in demography of Orbicella franksi following simulated disturbance and restoration. Ecol Modell 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2022.110104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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26
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Cronau RJT, de Fouw J, van Katwijk MM, Bouma TJ, Heusinkveld JHT, Hoeijmakers D, Lamers LPM, van der Heide T. Seed‐ versus transplant‐based eelgrass (
Zostera marina
L.) restoration success in a temperate marine lake. Restor Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rens J. T. Cronau
- Department of Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University Nijmegen, Faculty of Science 6525 AJ Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Jimmy de Fouw
- Department of Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University Nijmegen, Faculty of Science 6525 AJ Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen The Netherlands
- Department of Coastal systems. NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research and Utrecht University P.O. Box 59, 1790, AB Den Burg Texel The Netherlands
| | - Marieke M. van Katwijk
- Department of Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University Nijmegen, Faculty of Science 6525 AJ Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Tjeerd J. Bouma
- Department of Estuarine & Delta Systems. NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research and Utrecht University 4401 Korringaweg 7, NT Yerseke The Netherlands
| | | | - Dieuwke Hoeijmakers
- The Fieldwork Company Van Schendelstraat 1, 9721 GV Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Leon P. M. Lamers
- Department of Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University Nijmegen, Faculty of Science 6525 AJ Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Tjisse van der Heide
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES) , University of Groningen P.O. Box 11103 9700 CC Groningen The Netherlands
- Department of Coastal systems. NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research and Utrecht University P.O. Box 59, 1790, AB Den Burg Texel The Netherlands
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27
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Eger AM, Marzinelli EM, Christie H, Fagerli CW, Fujita D, Gonzalez AP, Hong SW, Kim JH, Lee LC, McHugh TA, Nishihara GN, Tatsumi M, Steinberg PD, Vergés A. Global kelp forest restoration: past lessons, present status, and future directions. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2022; 97:1449-1475. [PMID: 35255531 PMCID: PMC9543053 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Kelp forest ecosystems and their associated ecosystem services are declining around the world. In response, marine managers are working to restore and counteract these declines. Kelp restoration first started in the 1700s in Japan and since then has spread across the globe. Restoration efforts, however, have been largely disconnected, with varying methodologies trialled by different actors in different countries. Moreover, a small subset of these efforts are 'afforestation', which focuses on creating new kelp habitat, as opposed to restoring kelp where it previously existed. To distil lessons learned over the last 300 years of kelp restoration, we review the history of kelp restoration (including afforestation) around the world and synthesise the results of 259 documented restoration attempts spanning from 1957 to 2020, across 16 countries, five languages, and multiple user groups. Our results show that kelp restoration projects have increased in frequency, have employed 10 different methodologies and targeted 17 different kelp genera. Of these projects, the majority have been led by academics (62%), have been conducted at sizes of less than 1 ha (80%) and took place over time spans of less than 2 years. We show that projects are most successful when they are located near existing kelp forests. Further, disturbance events such as sea-urchin grazing are identified as regular causes of project failure. Costs for restoration are historically high, averaging hundreds of thousands of dollars per hectare, therefore we explore avenues to reduce these costs and suggest financial and legal pathways for scaling up future restoration efforts. One key suggestion is the creation of a living database which serves as a platform for recording restoration projects, showcasing and/or re-analysing existing data, and providing updated information. Our work establishes the groundwork to provide adaptive and relevant recommendations on best practices for kelp restoration projects today and into the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M. Eger
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation & Ecology and Evolution Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesThe University of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052
| | - Ezequiel M. Marzinelli
- The University of Sydney, School of Life and Environmental SciencesSydneyNSW2006Australia
- Sydney Institute of Marine Science19 Chowder Bay RdMosmanNSW2088Australia
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences EngineeringNanyang Technological UniversitySingapore637551Singapore
| | - Hartvig Christie
- Norwegian Institute for Water ResearchØkernveien 94Oslo0579Norway
| | | | - Daisuke Fujita
- University of Tokyo Marine Science and Technology, School of Marine Bioresources, Applied PhycologyKonan, Minato‐kuTokyo108‐8477Japan
| | - Alejandra P. Gonzalez
- Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de CienciasUniversidad de ChileLas Palmeras 3425, ÑuñoaSantiagoChile
| | - Seok Woo Hong
- Department of Biological SciencesSungkyunkwan UniversitySuwon2066South Korea
| | - Jeong Ha Kim
- Department of Biological SciencesSungkyunkwan UniversitySuwon2066South Korea
| | - Lynn C. Lee
- Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site60 Second Beach Road, SkidegateHaida GwaiiBCV0T 1S1Canada
- Canada & School of Environmental Sciences, University of Victoria3800 Finnerty RoadVictoriaBCV8P 5C2Canada
| | - Tristin Anoush McHugh
- Reef Check Foundation, Long Marine Laboratory115 McAllister RoadSanta CruzCA95060U.S.A.
- Present address:
The Nature Conservancy830 S StreetSacramentoCA95811U.S.A.
| | - Gregory N. Nishihara
- Organization for Marine Science and TechnologyInstitute for East China Sea Research, Nagasaki University1551‐7 Taira‐machiNagasaki City851‐2213Japan
| | - Masayuki Tatsumi
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of TasmaniaHobartTAS7004Australia
| | - Peter D. Steinberg
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation & Ecology and Evolution Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesThe University of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052
- Sydney Institute of Marine Science19 Chowder Bay RdMosmanNSW2088Australia
| | - Adriana Vergés
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation & Ecology and Evolution Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesThe University of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052
- Sydney Institute of Marine Science19 Chowder Bay RdMosmanNSW2088Australia
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28
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Cardini U, Marín-Guirao L, Montilla LM, Marzocchi U, Chiavarini S, Rimauro J, Quero GM, Petersen JM, Procaccini G. Nested interactions between chemosynthetic lucinid bivalves and seagrass promote ecosystem functioning in contaminated sediments. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:918675. [PMID: 35937361 PMCID: PMC9355091 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.918675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In seagrass sediments, lucinid bivalves and their chemoautotrophic bacterial symbionts consume H2S, relying indirectly on the plant productivity for the presence of the reduced chemical. Additionally, the role of lucinid bivalves in N provisioning to the plant (through N2 fixation by the symbionts) was hypothesized. Thus, lucinids may contribute to sediment detoxification and plant fitness. Seagrasses are subject to ever-increasing human pressure in coastal environments. Here, disentangling nested interactions between chemosynthetic lucinid bivalves and seagrass exposed to pollution may help to understand seagrass ecosystem dynamics and to develop successful seagrass restoration programs that consider the roles of animal-microbe symbioses. We evaluated the capacity of lucinid bivalves (Loripes orbiculatus) to promote nutrient cycling and seagrass (Cymodocea nodosa) growth during a 6-week mesocosm experiment. A fully crossed design was used to test for the effect of sediment contamination (metals, nutrients, and hydrocarbons) on plant and bivalve (alone or interacting) fitness, assessed by mortality, growth, and photosynthetic efficiency, and for the effect of their nested interaction on sediment biogeochemistry. Plants performed better in the contaminated sediment, where a larger pool of dissolved nitrogen combined with the presence of other trace elements allowed for an improved photosynthetic efficiency. In fact, pore water nitrogen accumulated during the experiment in the controls, while it was consumed in the contaminated sediment. This trend was accentuated when lucinids were present. Concurrently, the interaction between clams and plants benefitted both organisms and promoted plant growth irrespective of the sediment type. In particular, the interaction with lucinid clams resulted in higher aboveground biomass of C. nodosa in terms of leaf growth, leaf surface, and leaf biomass. Our results consolidate the notion that nested interactions involving animal-microbe associations promote ecosystem functioning, and potentially help designing unconventional seagrass restoration strategies that exploit chemosynthetic symbioses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulisse Cardini
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Marine Biology, Ecology and Biotechnology, Naples, Italy
| | - Lazaro Marín-Guirao
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Marine Biology, Ecology and Biotechnology, Naples, Italy
- Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Instituto Español de Oceanografia (IEO-CSIC), Murcia, Spain
| | - Luis M. Montilla
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Marine Biology, Ecology and Biotechnology, Naples, Italy
| | - Ugo Marzocchi
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Marine Biology, Ecology and Biotechnology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Biology, Center for Water Technology (WATEC), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Salvatore Chiavarini
- Division Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Capital - Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Juri Rimauro
- Division Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Capital - Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Marina Quero
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Marine Biology, Ecology and Biotechnology, Naples, Italy
- Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnology, National Research Council (IRBIM-CNR), Ancona, Italy
| | - Jillian M. Petersen
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabriele Procaccini
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn - National Institute of Marine Biology, Ecology and Biotechnology, Naples, Italy
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Pastor A, Ospina-Alvarez A, Larsen J, Thorbjørn Hansen F, Krause-Jensen D, Maar M. A network analysis of connected biophysical pathways to advice eelgrass (Zostera marina) restoration. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 179:105690. [PMID: 35853313 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2022.105690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The North Sea and the Baltic Sea, including Danish coastal waters, have experienced a drastic decline in eelgrass Zostera marina coverage during the past century. Around 1900, eelgrass meadows covered about 6700 km2 of Danish coastal waters while the current potential distribution area is only about one third of this. In some areas, the potential distribution area is far from realized, and restoration efforts are needed to assist recovery. Such efforts are challenging, and resource-demanding and careful site selection is, therefore, important. In the present study, we aim to identify the connectivity of eelgrass populations as a basis for guiding site selection for restoration. We developed a coupled biophysical model to study eelgrass dispersal in the Kattegat. Partly submerged particles simulated the dispersal of reproductive eelgrass shoots containing seeds during the flowering season July-September. We then used network analysis to identify the potential connectivity between populations. We evaluated connectivity based on In-strength, Betweenness and Eigenvector centrality metrics and identified key areas in the Kattegat such as the central part of Aalborg Bay, to be considered to restore the network of Z. marina patches. The study proves the potentials of combining hydrodynamic models and network analysis to support marine conservation and planning, and highlights the importance of collaboration between ecologists, oceanographers, and practitioners in this endeavour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ane Pastor
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Andrés Ospina-Alvarez
- Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies IMEDEA (UIB-CSIC), C/ Miquel Marquès, 21, 07190, Esporles, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Janus Larsen
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Flemming Thorbjørn Hansen
- Section for Coastal Ecology, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, Building 201, 2800 kgs, Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Marie Maar
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
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30
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Copper sulphate treatment induces Heterozostera seed germination and improves seedling growth rates. Glob Ecol Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2022.e02079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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31
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Deng XF, Zhang YH, Liu J, Yu B, Li HC, Zhang PD. An examination of seed germination and seedling growth of Zostera marina for planting-time selection in Rongcheng Bay, Shandong Peninsula, China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 179:113740. [PMID: 35576675 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113740] [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: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study firstly quantified the responses of seeds of Zostera marina to different planting times (22 September, 5 October, 23 October, 7 November and 20 November in 2015) through a field seed-planting experiment over a two year period. The suitable seed planting time required by the seeds of Z. marina was evaluated. The seedling establishment rate of Z. marina subjected to different planting times ranged from 7% to 55%, with the higher values attained on the treatments of 22 September and 5 October. New plant patches from seed were fully developed and well maintained on the planting time of 22 September, 5 October and 23 October after 2 years following planting. The shoot density under the three treatments ranged from 62 shoots per replicate to 72 shoots per replicate with an average of 67 shoots per replicate in September 2017. According to the propagation assessment and growth analysis, we found that the planting time from mid-September to mid-October may be the optimal time to plant seeds of Z. marina in our experimental site. Our results demonstrate that seed planting time has an important effect on the effectiveness of eelgrass restoration and provide data that could prove helpful in the development of successful eelgrass restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Fan Deng
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Hao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Liu
- Shandong Marine Forecast and Hazard Mitigation Service, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Yu
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Chen Li
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Pei-Dong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao, People's Republic of China.
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32
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Mancini G, Ventura D, Casoli E, Belluscio A, Ardizzone GD. Transplantation on a Posidonia oceanica meadow to facilitate its recovery after the Concordia shipwrecking. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 179:113683. [PMID: 35537303 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113683] [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: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Ecological restoration is an important tool to reverse habitat loss and recover ecosystem services. Here, for two years, we examine the dynamic of Posidonia oceanica following the restoration of a 1149 m2 meadow damaged by the Concordia shipwreck. To evaluate the suitability of a recently employed seagrass restoration protocol, we assessed the patches' survival and development by high-spatial resolution photomosaics over the whole transplanted surface. To estimate recovery trajectories, we quantified the cuttings' survival, shoot density, and Daily Leaf Production within fixed monitoring squares. The outcomes confirmed that our protocol could be efficiently applied at larger scales, showing diminutions in cuttings' survival and shoot density over the first year (up to -20%), followed by stability in the number of living cuttings and increases of leaf bundles (up to +5%/year). Our insights demonstrate that the recovery of P. oceanica can be speeded up and underline the need for case-specific transplantation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Mancini
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; CIBM, Consorzio per il Centro Interuniversitario di Biologia Marina ed Ecologia Applicata "G. Bacci", Viale N. Sauro 4, I-57128 Livorno, Italy.
| | - D Ventura
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; CIBM, Consorzio per il Centro Interuniversitario di Biologia Marina ed Ecologia Applicata "G. Bacci", Viale N. Sauro 4, I-57128 Livorno, Italy
| | - E Casoli
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; CIBM, Consorzio per il Centro Interuniversitario di Biologia Marina ed Ecologia Applicata "G. Bacci", Viale N. Sauro 4, I-57128 Livorno, Italy
| | - A Belluscio
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; CIBM, Consorzio per il Centro Interuniversitario di Biologia Marina ed Ecologia Applicata "G. Bacci", Viale N. Sauro 4, I-57128 Livorno, Italy
| | - G D Ardizzone
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; CIBM, Consorzio per il Centro Interuniversitario di Biologia Marina ed Ecologia Applicata "G. Bacci", Viale N. Sauro 4, I-57128 Livorno, Italy
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33
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Temmink RJM, Lamers LPM, Angelini C, Bouma TJ, Fritz C, van de Koppel J, Lexmond R, Rietkerk M, Silliman BR, Joosten H, van der Heide T. Recovering wetland biogeomorphic feedbacks to restore the world's biotic carbon hotspots. Science 2022; 376:eabn1479. [PMID: 35511964 DOI: 10.1126/science.abn1479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Biogeomorphic wetlands cover 1% of Earth's surface but store 20% of ecosystem organic carbon. This disproportional share is fueled by high carbon sequestration rates and effective storage in peatlands, mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows, which greatly exceed those of oceanic and forest ecosystems. Here, we review how feedbacks between geomorphology and landscape-building vegetation underlie these qualities and how feedback disruption can switch wetlands from carbon sinks into sources. Currently, human activities are driving rapid declines in the area of major carbon-storing wetlands (1% annually). Our findings highlight the urgency to stop through conservation ongoing losses and to reestablish landscape-forming feedbacks through restoration innovations that recover the role of biogeomorphic wetlands as the world's biotic carbon hotspots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph J M Temmink
- Environmental Sciences, Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, Princetonlaan 8a, 3584 CB, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Coastal Systems, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, 1790 AB Den Burg, Netherlands.,Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Leon P M Lamers
- Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, Netherlands.,B-WARE Research Centre, Toernooiveld 1, 6525 ED Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Christine Angelini
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, Engineering School for Sustainable Infrastructure and Environment, University of Florida, Post Office Box 116580, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Tjeerd J Bouma
- Department of Estuarine and Delta Systems, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, 4401 NT Yerseke, Netherlands.,Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, Netherlands.,Building with Nature group, HZ University of Applied Sciences, Postbus 364, 4380 AJ Vlissingen, Netherlands.,Faculty of Geosciences, Department of Physical Geography, Utrecht University, 3508 TC Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Christian Fritz
- Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Integrated Research on Energy, Environment and Society (IREES), University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 6, Groningen, 9747 AG, Netherlands
| | - Johan van de Koppel
- Department of Estuarine and Delta Systems, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, 4401 NT Yerseke, Netherlands.,Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Robin Lexmond
- Experimental Plant Ecology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Max Rietkerk
- Environmental Sciences, Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, Princetonlaan 8a, 3584 CB, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Brian R Silliman
- Division of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 135 Duke Marine Lab Road, Beaufort, NC, USA
| | - Hans Joosten
- Institute of Botany and Landscape Ecology, Greifswald University, Partner in the Greifswald Mire Centre, Soldmannstrasse 15, 17487 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Tjisse van der Heide
- Department of Coastal Systems, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, 1790 AB Den Burg, Netherlands.,Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, Netherlands
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34
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Assessing Seagrass Restoration Actions through a Micro-Bathymetry Survey Approach (Italy, Mediterranean Sea). WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14081285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Underwater photogrammetry provides a means of generating high-resolution products such as dense point clouds, 3D models, and orthomosaics with centimetric scale resolutions. Underwater photogrammetric models can be used to monitor the growth and expansion of benthic communities, including the assessment of the conservation status of seagrass beds and their change over time (time lapse micro-bathymetry) with OBIA classifications (Object-Based Image Analysis). However, one of the most complex aspects of underwater photogrammetry is the accuracy of the 3D models for both the horizontal and vertical components used to estimate the surfaces and volumes of biomass. In this study, a photogrammetry-based micro-bathymetry approach was applied to monitor Posidonia oceanica restoration actions. A procedure for rectifying both the horizontal and vertical elevation data was developed using soundings from high-resolution multibeam bathymetry. Furthermore, a 3D trilateration technique was also tested to collect Ground Control Points (GCPs) together with reference scale bars, both used to estimate the accuracy of the models and orthomosaics. The root mean square error (RMSE) value obtained for the horizontal planimetric measurements was 0.05 m, while the RMSE value for the depth was 0.11 m. Underwater photogrammetry, if properly applied, can provide very high-resolution and accurate models for monitoring seagrass restoration actions for ecological recovery and can be useful for other research purposes in geological and environmental monitoring.
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35
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Buelow CA, Connolly RM, Turschwell MP, Adame MF, Ahmadia GN, Andradi-Brown DA, Bunting P, Canty SWJ, Dunic JC, Friess DA, Lee SY, Lovelock CE, McClure EC, Pearson RM, Sievers M, Sousa AI, Worthington TA, Brown CJ. Ambitious global targets for mangrove and seagrass recovery. Curr Biol 2022; 32:1641-1649.e3. [PMID: 35196506 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
There is an urgent need to halt and reverse loss of mangroves and seagrass to protect and increase the ecosystem services they provide to coastal communities, such as enhancing coastal resilience and contributing to climate stability.1,2 Ambitious targets for their recovery can inspire public and private investment in conservation,3 but the expected outcomes of different protection and restoration strategies are unclear. We estimated potential recovery of mangroves and seagrass through gains in ecosystem extent to the year 2070 under a range of protection and restoration strategies implemented until the year 2050. Under a protection-only scenario, the current trajectories of net mangrove loss slowed, and a minor net gain in global seagrass extent (∼1%) was estimated. Protection alone is therefore unlikely to drive sufficient recovery. However, if action is taken to both protect and restore, net gains of up to 5% and 35% of mangroves and seagrasses, respectively, could be achieved by 2050. Further, protection and restoration can be complementary, as protection prevents losses that would otherwise occur post-2050, highlighting the importance of implementing protection measures. Our findings provide the scientific evidence required for setting strategic and ambitious targets to inspire significant global investment and effort in mangrove and seagrass conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A Buelow
- Coastal and Marine Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia.
| | - Rod M Connolly
- Coastal and Marine Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Mischa P Turschwell
- Coastal and Marine Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Maria F Adame
- Coastal and Marine Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Gabby N Ahmadia
- Ocean Conservation, World Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20037, USA
| | - Dominic A Andradi-Brown
- Ocean Conservation, World Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20037, USA; Mangrove Specialist Group, International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Conservation Programmes, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Pete Bunting
- Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, Wales SY23 3DB, UK
| | - Steven W J Canty
- Smithsonian Marine Station, 701 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA; Working Land and Seascapes, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. 20013, USA
| | - Jillian C Dunic
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Daniel A Friess
- Department of Geography, National University of Singapore, 1 Arts Link, Singapore 117570, Singapore; Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117558, Singapore; Mangrove Specialist Group, International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Conservation Programmes, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Shing Yip Lee
- Mangrove Specialist Group, International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Conservation Programmes, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, UK; Simon F.S. Li Marine Science Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Catherine E Lovelock
- Mangrove Specialist Group, International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Conservation Programmes, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, UK; The University of Queensland, School of Biological Sciences, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Eva C McClure
- Coastal and Marine Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia; Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Ryan M Pearson
- Coastal and Marine Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Michael Sievers
- Coastal and Marine Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Ana I Sousa
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Thomas A Worthington
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3QZ, UK
| | - Christopher J Brown
- Coastal and Marine Research Centre, Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
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36
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DuBois K, Pollard KN, Kauffman BJ, Williams SL, Stachowicz JJ. Local adaptation in a marine foundation species: Implications for resilience to future global change. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2022; 28:2596-2610. [PMID: 35007376 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Environmental change is multidimensional, with local anthropogenic stressors and global climate change interacting to differentially impact populations throughout a species' geographic range. Within species, the spatial distribution of phenotypic variation and its causes (i.e., local adaptation or plasticity) will determine species' adaptive capacity to respond to a changing environment. However, comparatively less is known about the spatial scale of adaptive differentiation among populations and how patterns of local adaptation might drive vulnerability to global change stressors. To test whether fine-scale (2-12 km) mosaics of environmental stress can cause adaptive differentiation in a marine foundation species, eelgrass (Zostera marina), we conducted a three-way reciprocal transplant experiment spanning the length of Tomales Bay, CA. Our results revealed strong home-site advantage in growth and survival for all three populations. In subsequent common garden experiments and feeding assays, we showed that countergradients in temperature, light availability, and grazing pressure from an introduced herbivore contribute to differential performance among populations consistent with local adaptation. Our findings highlight how local-scale mosaics in environmental stressors can increase phenotypic variation among neighboring populations, potentially increasing species resilience to future global change. More specifically, we identified a range-center eelgrass population that is pre-adapted to extremely warm temperatures similar to those experienced by low-latitude range-edge populations of eelgrass, demonstrating how reservoirs of heat-tolerant phenotypes may already exist throughout a species range. Future work on predicting species resilience to global change should incorporate potential buffering effects of local-scale population differentiation and promote a phenotypic management approach to species conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine DuBois
- Department of Evolution and Ecology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Bodega Marine Laboratory, University of California Davis, Bodega Bay, California, USA
| | - Kenzie N Pollard
- Department of Evolution and Ecology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Brian J Kauffman
- Bodega Marine Laboratory, University of California Davis, Bodega Bay, California, USA
| | - Susan L Williams
- Department of Evolution and Ecology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Bodega Marine Laboratory, University of California Davis, Bodega Bay, California, USA
| | - John J Stachowicz
- Department of Evolution and Ecology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
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37
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Xu S, Zhou Y, Qiao Y, Yue S, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Liu M, Zhang Y, Zhang Z. Seagrass restoration using seed ball burial in northern China. Restor Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shaochun Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology Qingdao 266237 China
- Center for Ocean Mega‐Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Yi Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology Qingdao 266237 China
- Center for Ocean Mega‐Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Yongliang Qiao
- Qingdao University of Science and Technology Qingdao 266000 China
| | - Shidong Yue
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology Qingdao 266237 China
- Center for Ocean Mega‐Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology Qingdao 266237 China
- Center for Ocean Mega‐Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology Qingdao 266071 China
| | - Yu Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology Qingdao 266237 China
- Center for Ocean Mega‐Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Mingjie Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology Qingdao 266237 China
- Center for Ocean Mega‐Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Marine Ranching, Institute of Oceanology Chinese Academy of Sciences Qingdao 266071 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Yunling Zhang
- Hebei Provincial Technology Innovation Center for Coastal Ecology Rehabilitation Tangshan 063610 China
| | - Zhenhai Zhang
- Hebei Provincial Technology Innovation Center for Coastal Ecology Rehabilitation Tangshan 063610 China
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38
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Ventura D, Mancini G, Casoli E, Pace DS, Lasinio GJ, Belluscio A, Ardizzone G. Seagrass restoration monitoring and shallow-water benthic habitat mapping through a photogrammetry-based protocol. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 304:114262. [PMID: 34923414 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Seagrasses rank among the most productive yet highly threatened ecosystems on Earth. Loss of seagrass habitat because of anthropogenic disturbances and evidence of their limited resilience have provided the impetus for investigating and monitoring habitat restoration through transplantation programmes. Although Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry is becoming a more and more relevant technique for mapping underwater environments, no standardised methods currently exist to provide 3-dimensional high spatial resolution and accuracy cartographic products for monitoring seagrass transplantation areas. By synthesizing various remote sensing applications, we provide an underwater SfM-based protocol for monitoring large seagrass restoration areas. The data obtained from consumer-grade red-green-blue (RGB) imagery allowed the fine characterization of the seabed by using 3D dense point clouds and raster layers, including orthophoto mosaics and Digital Surface Models (DSM). The integration of high spatial resolution underwater imagery with object-based image classification (OBIA) technique provided a new tool to count transplanted Posidonia oceanica fragments and estimate the bottom coverage expressed as a percentage of seabed covered by such fragments. Finally, the resulting digital maps were integrated into Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to run topographic change detection analysis and evaluate the mean height of transplanted fragments and detect fine-scale changes in seabed vector ruggedness measure (VRM). Our study provides a guide for creating large-scale, replicable and ready-to-use products for a broad range of applications aimed at standardizing monitoring protocols in future seagrass restoration actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Ventura
- Department of Environmental Biology and Ecology, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', V. le dell'Università 32, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Mancini
- Department of Environmental Biology and Ecology, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', V. le dell'Università 32, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Casoli
- Department of Environmental Biology and Ecology, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', V. le dell'Università 32, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Silvia Pace
- Department of Environmental Biology and Ecology, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', V. le dell'Università 32, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Jona Lasinio
- Department of Statistics Sciences, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', V. le dell'Università 32, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Belluscio
- Department of Environmental Biology and Ecology, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', V. le dell'Università 32, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Giandomenico Ardizzone
- Department of Environmental Biology and Ecology, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', V. le dell'Università 32, 00185, Rome, Italy
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39
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Govers LL, Heusinkveld JHT, Gräfnings MLE, Smeele Q, van der Heide T. Adaptive intertidal seed-based seagrass restoration in the Dutch Wadden Sea. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262845. [PMID: 35139086 PMCID: PMC8827467 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Seagrasses form the foundation of many coastal ecosystems but are rapidly declining on a global scale. The Dutch Wadden Sea once supported extensive subtidal seagrass meadows that have all disappeared. Here, we report on the setbacks and successes of intertidal seed-based restoration experiments in the Dutch Wadden Sea between 2014-2017. Our main goals were to 1) optimize plant densities, and 2) reduce seed losses. To achieve our goals, we conducted research-based, adaptive seagrass (Zostera marina) restoration, adjusting methods yearly based on previous results. We applied various seeding methods in three subsequent years-from Buoy Deployed Seeding (BuDS), and 'BuDS-in-frame' in fall, to a newly developed 'Dispenser Injection Seeding' (DIS) method. Our adaptive experimental approach revealed high seed losses between seeding and seedling establishment of the BuDS methods (>99.9%), which we mitigated by controlled harvest and storage of seeds throughout fall and winter, followed by DIS-seeding in spring. These iterative innovations resulted in 83 times higher plant densities in the field (0.012 to 1.00 plants m-2) and a small reduction in seed loss (99.94 to 99.75%) between 2015-2017. Although these developments have not yet resulted in self-sustaining seagrass populations, we are one step closer towards upscaling seagrass restoration in the Dutch Wadden Sea. Our outcomes suggest that an iterative, research-based restoration approach that focuses on technological advancement of precision-seeding may result in advancing knowledge and improved seed-based seagrass restoration successes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L. Govers
- Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology, Institute for Water and Wetland Research (IWWR), Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Coastal Systems, Royal NIOZ and Utrecht University, Den Burg, The Netherlands
| | | | - Max L. E. Gräfnings
- Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Tjisse van der Heide
- Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology, Institute for Water and Wetland Research (IWWR), Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Coastal Systems, Royal NIOZ and Utrecht University, Den Burg, The Netherlands
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40
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Fivash GS, van Belzen J, Temmink RJM, Didderen K, Lengkeek W, van der Heide T, Bouma TJ. Increasing spatial dispersion in ecosystem restoration mitigates risk in disturbance‐driven environments. J Appl Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory S. Fivash
- Department of Estuarine and Delta Systems Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research Yerseke the Netherlands
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences Community and Conservation Ecology Group, University of Groningen Groningen the Netherlands
| | - Jim van Belzen
- Department of Estuarine and Delta Systems Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research Yerseke the Netherlands
| | - Ralph J. M. Temmink
- Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University Nijmegen the Netherlands
| | | | - Wouter Lengkeek
- Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University Nijmegen the Netherlands
- Bureau Waardenburg, Culemborg the Netherlands
| | - Tjisse van der Heide
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences Community and Conservation Ecology Group, University of Groningen Groningen the Netherlands
- Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Biology Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University Nijmegen the Netherlands
- Department of Coastal Systems Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research Den Burg the Netherlands
| | - Tjeerd J. Bouma
- Department of Estuarine and Delta Systems Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research Yerseke the Netherlands
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences Community and Conservation Ecology Group, University of Groningen Groningen the Netherlands
- Delta Academy Applied Research Centre HZ University of Applied Sciences Vlissingen the Netherlands
- Department of Physical Geography Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University Utrecht The Netherlands
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41
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Costa V, Flindt MR, Lopes M, Coelho JP, Costa AF, Lillebø AI, Sousa AI. Enhancing the resilience of Zostera noltei seagrass meadows against Arenicola spp. bio-invasion: A decision-making approach. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 302:113969. [PMID: 34715611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113969] [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: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Seagrass meadows provide important and valuable ecosystem services. They are affected by several natural and human-induced stressors, but a combination of natural recovery and management actions have recently inverted the worldwide reduction. The main objectives of this study were to provide science-based knowledge on ecology and restoration, framed on environmental-related policies. By coupling the general guidelines with practical experience, obtained from sequential in situ experiments carried out for several months in a show-case study area, this study provides guidelines useful for restoration practitioners. A decision-making approach is proposed to answer the following questions: 1) What is the best Zostera noltei transplanting method? 2) What is the best technique to reduce the bioturbation activity of Arenicola spp.?, 3) Do bioturbation reduction techniques affect the survival rate of Z. noltei transplants?, and finally, 4) What are the key steps to maximize the success of a Z. noltei transplant and increase the species' resilience? Having a Portuguese coastal lagoon as show-case (Mira Channel, Ria de Aveiro), different transplant and restoration methodologies were tested (i.e. metal frames, nails, bamboo sticks, shoots inserted unanchored into the sediment, and intact units of sediment with seagrasses, named as SODs) to assure low environmental impact on donor meadows, high survival rate of transplanted shoots and the recovery of fragmented or lost meadows. Moreover, to potentially reverse a degraded Arenicola spp. colonized seagrass habitat, different types of natural membranes were tested. Results showed that the best transplanting method is the use of SODs as the self-facilitation process of Z. noltei is enhanced, while being the least invasive for the donor population. The use of a natural membrane can significantly decrease the bioturbation stress caused by Arenicola spp., with jute membrane being the best option, given its cost-handling-benefit trade-offs. Enhancing the success of seagrass restoration requires the implementation of effective measures by environmental restoration practitioners. We defined a three-step process to improve the resilience of Z. noltei. This stepwise approach consists on 1) Characterization of the donor population, 2) Identification of the constraints and implementation of measures to prevent them, and 3) Scale-up the restoration plan. The application of this stepwise approach in intertidal coastal and estuarine systems management will, therefore, facilitate the success of Z. noltei restoration plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Costa
- ECOMARE, CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mogens R Flindt
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Marta Lopes
- ECOMARE, CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - J Pedro Coelho
- ECOMARE, CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana F Costa
- ECOMARE, CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana I Lillebø
- ECOMARE, CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Ana I Sousa
- ECOMARE, CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
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42
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Murphy GE, Kelly NE, Lotze HK, Wong MC. Incorporating anthropogenic thresholds to improve understanding of cumulative effects on seagrass beds. Facets (Ott) 2022. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2021-0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cumulative human impact analysis is a promising management tool to estimate the impacts of stressors on ecosystems caused by multiple human activities. However, connecting cumulative impact scores to actual ecosystem change at appropriate spatial scales remains challenging. Here, we calculated cumulative effects (CE) scores for 187 seagrass beds in Atlantic Canada that accounts for both bay-scale and local-scale anthropogenic activities. We then developed a CE threshold to evaluate where degradation of seagrass beds from multiple human activities is more likely. Overall, the CE score was the best predictor of human impacts for seagrass beds. Locations with high watershed land alteration and nitrogen loading had the highest CE scores; however, we also identified seagrass beds with high CE scores in regions characterized by generally low levels of human activities. Forty-nine seagrass beds exceeded the CE threshold and, of these, 86% had CE scores that were influenced by three or more stressors that cumulatively amounted to a large score. This CE threshold approach can provide a simplified metric to identify areas where management of cumulative effects should be prioritized and further highlights the need to consider multiple human activities when assessing anthropogenic impacts to coastal habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E.P. Murphy
- Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
| | - Noreen E. Kelly
- Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
| | - Heike K. Lotze
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Melisa C. Wong
- Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
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43
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Beheshti KM, Williams SL, Boyer KE, Endris C, Clemons A, Grimes T, Wasson K, Hughes BB. Rapid enhancement of multiple ecosystem services following the restoration of a coastal foundation species. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2022; 32:e02466. [PMID: 34614246 PMCID: PMC9285811 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The global decline of marine foundation species (kelp forests, mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses) has contributed to the degradation of the coastal zone and threatens the loss of critical ecosystem services and functions. Restoration of marine foundation species has had variable success, especially for seagrasses, where a majority of restoration efforts have failed. While most seagrass restorations track structural attributes over time, rarely do restorations assess the suite of ecological functions that may be affected by restoration. Here we report on the results of two small-scale experimental seagrass restoration efforts in a central California estuary where we transplanted 117 0.25-m2 plots (2,340 shoots) of the seagrass species Zostera marina. We quantified restoration success relative to persistent reference beds, and in comparison to unrestored, unvegetated areas. Within three years, our restored plots expanded ~8,500%, from a total initial area of 29 to 2,513 m2 . The restored beds rapidly began to resemble the reference beds in (1) seagrass structural attributes (canopy height, shoot density, biomass), (2) ecological functions (macrofaunal species richness and abundance, epifaunal species richness, nursery function), and (3) biogeochemical functions (modulation of water quality). We also developed a multifunctionality index to assess cumulative functional performance, which revealed restored plots are intermediate between reference and unvegetated habitats, illustrating how rapidly multiple functions recovered over a short time period. Our comprehensive study is one of few published studies to quantify how seagrass restoration can enhance both biological and biogeochemical functions. Our study serves as a model for quantifying ecosystem services associated with the restoration of a foundation species and demonstrates the potential for rapid functional recovery that can be achieved through targeted restoration of fast-growing foundation species under suitable conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M. Beheshti
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of California, Santa CruzSanta CruzCalifornia95060USA
| | - Susan L. Williams
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of California, DavisDavisCalifornia95616USA
| | - Katharyn E. Boyer
- Estuary & Ocean Science CenterSan Francisco State UniversityTiburonCalifornia94920USA
| | - Charlie Endris
- Moss Landing Marine LaboratoriesMoss LandingCalifornia95039USA
| | - Annakate Clemons
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of California, Santa CruzSanta CruzCalifornia95060USA
| | - Tracy Grimes
- Department of EcologySan Diego State UniversitySan DiegoCalifornia92182USA
| | - Kerstin Wasson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of California, Santa CruzSanta CruzCalifornia95060USA
- Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research ReserveRoyal OaksCalifornia95076USA
| | - Brent B. Hughes
- Department of BiologySonoma State UniversityRohnert ParkCalifornia94928USA
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44
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Sfriso A, Buosi A, Facca C, Sfriso AA, Tomio Y, Juhmani AS, Wolf MA, Franzoi P, Scapin L, Ponis E, Cornello M, Rampazzo F, Berto D, Gion C, Oselladore F, Boscolo Brusà R, Bonometto A. Environmental restoration by aquatic angiosperm transplants in transitional water systems: The Venice Lagoon as a case study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 795:148859. [PMID: 34328918 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The paper reports the results obtained after 4 years of aquatic angiosperm transplants in areas of the Venice Lagoon (North Adriatic Sea, Mediterranean) where meadows almost disappeared due to eutrophication, pollution and overexploitation of clam resources. The project LIFE12 NAT/IT/000331-SeResto, funded by the European Union, allowed to recolonize the Habitat 1150* (coastal lagoons) in the northernmost part of the lagoon, by extensive manual transplants of small sods or single rhizomes of Zostera marina, Zostera noltei, Ruppia cirrhosa and, in some stations also of Cymodocea nodosa. Over the 4 years of the project more than 75,000 rhizomes were transplanted in 35 stations with the support of local stakeholders (fishermen, hunters and sport clubs). Plants took root in 32 stations forming extensive meadows on a surface of approx. 10 km2 even if some failures were recorded in areas affected by outflows of freshwater rich in nutrients and suspended particulate matter. The rapid recovery of the ecological status of the involved areas was the result of this meadow restoration, which was in compliance with Water Framework Directive (WFD 2000/60/EC) objectives. Moreover, the monitoring of environmental parameters in the water column and in surface sediments allowed to identify the best conditions for successful transplants. Small, widespread interventions and the participation of local stakeholders in the environmental recovery, make this action economically cheap and easily transposable in other similar environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriano Sfriso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Buosi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Chiara Facca
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Andrea Augusto Sfriso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Yari Tomio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Abdul-Salam Juhmani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Marion Adelheid Wolf
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Piero Franzoi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Luca Scapin
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica (DAIS), Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, Via Torino 155, 30170 Mestre, Ve, Italy.
| | - Emanuele Ponis
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, Ve, Italy.
| | - Michele Cornello
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, Ve, Italy.
| | - Federico Rampazzo
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, Ve, Italy.
| | - Daniela Berto
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, Ve, Italy.
| | - Claudia Gion
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, Ve, Italy.
| | - Federica Oselladore
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, Ve, Italy.
| | - Rossella Boscolo Brusà
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, Ve, Italy.
| | - Andrea Bonometto
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia, Ve, Italy.
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Barcelona A, Oldham C, Colomer J, Serra T. Functional dynamics of vegetated model patches: The minimum patch size effect for canopy restoration. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 795:148854. [PMID: 34328920 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
For the past two centuries coastal zones have been suffering seagrass loss resulting in a network of vegetated patches which are barely interconnected and which may compromise the ecological services provided by the canopy. To optimize management efforts for successful restoration strategies, questions need to be addressed about what appropriate canopy architectural considerations are required under certain hydrodynamic conditions. In this study, a set of laboratory experiments were conducted in which hydrodynamic conditions, plant densities and vegetated patch lengths were varied to determine minimum patch lengths for successful management strategies. Based on the TKE production, this study finds two possible canopy behaviours of seagrasses under oscillating flows: one where plants do not interact with the flow and the other where they interact with waves and produce TKE. A threshold from the first to second behaviour occurs for [Formula: see text] = 2, where CD is the drag of the vegetated patch, n is the number of stems per m2, d is the stem diameter and ϕ is the solid plant fraction. Therefore, high canopy densities, large patches of vegetation or moderate wave velocities will produce plant-wave interaction, whereas low canopy densities, small vegetation patches or slow wave velocities will produce a behaviour akin to the non-vegetated cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aina Barcelona
- Department of Physics, University of Girona, 17071 Girona, Spain.
| | - Carolyn Oldham
- School of Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jordi Colomer
- Department of Physics, University of Girona, 17071 Girona, Spain
| | - Teresa Serra
- Department of Physics, University of Girona, 17071 Girona, Spain
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46
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Donaher SE, Baillie CJ, Smith CS, Zhang YS, Albright A, Trackenberg SN, Wellman EH, Woodard N, Gittman RK. Bivalve facilitation mediates seagrass recovery from physical disturbance in a temperate estuary. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E. Donaher
- Institute of Marine Sciences University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Morehead City North Carolina 28557 USA
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences Clemson University Anderson South Carolina 29625 USA
| | | | - Carter S. Smith
- Duke University Marine Laboratory Beaufort North Carolina 28516 USA
| | - Y. Stacy Zhang
- Institute of Marine Sciences University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Morehead City North Carolina 28557 USA
| | - Anna Albright
- Department of Biology East Carolina University Greenville North Carolina 27858 USA
| | - Stacy N. Trackenberg
- Department of Biology East Carolina University Greenville North Carolina 27858 USA
| | - Emory H. Wellman
- Department of Biology East Carolina University Greenville North Carolina 27858 USA
| | - Nina Woodard
- Department of Biology East Carolina University Greenville North Carolina 27858 USA
| | - Rachel K. Gittman
- Institute of Marine Sciences University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Morehead City North Carolina 28557 USA
- Department of Biology East Carolina University Greenville North Carolina 27858 USA
- Coastal Studies Institute East Carolina University Wanchese North Carolina 27891 USA
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47
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van Katwijk MM, van Tussenbroek BI, Hanssen SV, Hendriks AJ, Hanssen L. Rewilding the Sea with Domesticated Seagrass. Bioscience 2021; 71:1171-1178. [PMID: 34733118 PMCID: PMC8560307 DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biab092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that seagrass meadows sequester atmospheric carbon dioxide, protect coasts, provide nurseries for global fisheries, and enhance biodiversity. Large-scale restoration of lost seagrass meadows is urgently needed to revive these planetary ecosystem services, but sourcing donor material from natural meadows would further decline them. Therefore, we advocate the domestication and mariculture of seagrasses in order to produce the large quantities of seed needed for successful rewilding of the sea with seagrass meadows. We provide a roadmap for our proposed solution and show that 44% of seagrass species have promising reproductive traits for domestication and rewilding by seeds. The principle of partially domesticating species to enable subsequent large-scale rewilding may form a successful shortcut to restore threatened keystone species and their vital ecosystem services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke M van Katwijk
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Brigitta I van Tussenbroek
- Reef Systems Unit, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | - Steef V Hanssen
- Deining Sustainable Coastal Zone Management, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A Jan Hendriks
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lucien Hanssen
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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48
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Balestri E, Menicagli V, Lardicci C. Managing biotic interactions during early seagrass life stages to improve seed‐based restoration. J Appl Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Virginia Menicagli
- Department of Biology University of Pisa Pisa Italy
- Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP) University of Pisa Pisa Italy
| | - Claudio Lardicci
- Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP) University of Pisa Pisa Italy
- Department of Earth Sciences University of Pisa Pisa Italy
- Center for Climate Change Impact University of Pisa Pisa Italy
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49
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Ma X, Olsen JL, Reusch TBH, Procaccini G, Kudrna D, Williams M, Grimwood J, Rajasekar S, Jenkins J, Schmutz J, Van de Peer Y. Improved chromosome-level genome assembly and annotation of the seagrass, Zostera marina (eelgrass). F1000Res 2021; 10:289. [PMID: 34621505 PMCID: PMC8482049 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.38156.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Seagrasses (Alismatales) are the only fully marine angiosperms.
Zostera marina (eelgrass) plays a crucial role in the functioning of coastal marine ecosystems and global carbon sequestration. It is the most widely studied seagrass and has become a marine model system for exploring adaptation under rapid climate change. The original draft genome (v.1.0) of the seagrass
Z.
marina (L.) was based on a combination of Illumina mate-pair libraries and fosmid-ends. A total of 25.55 Gb of Illumina and 0.14 Gb of Sanger sequence was obtained representing 47.7× genomic coverage. The assembly resulted in ~2000 unordered scaffolds (L50 of 486 Kb), a final genome assembly size of 203MB, 20,450 protein coding genes and 63% TE content. Here, we present an upgraded chromosome-scale genome assembly and compare v.1.0 and the new v.3.1, reconfirming previous results from Olsen et al. (2016), as well as pointing out new findings. Methods: The same high molecular weight DNA used in the original sequencing of the Finnish clone was used. A high-quality reference genome was assembled with the MECAT assembly pipeline combining PacBio long-read sequencing and Hi-C scaffolding. Results: In total, 75.97 Gb PacBio data was produced. The final assembly comprises six pseudo-chromosomes and 304 unanchored scaffolds with a total length of 260.5Mb and an N50 of 34.6 MB, showing high contiguity and few gaps (~0.5%). 21,483 protein-encoding genes are annotated in this assembly, of which 20,665 (96.2%) obtained at least one functional assignment based on similarity to known proteins. Conclusions: As an important marine angiosperm, the improved
Z. marina genome assembly will further assist evolutionary, ecological, and comparative genomics at the chromosome level. The new genome assembly will further our understanding into the structural and physiological adaptations from land to marine life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Ma
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University - Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, Ghent, 9052, Belgium
| | - Jeanine L Olsen
- Groningen Institute of Evolutionary Life Sciences, Groningen, 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Thorsten B H Reusch
- GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Marine Evolutionary Ecology, Kiel, 24105, Germany
| | - Gabriele Procaccini
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Napoli, 80123, Italy
| | - Dave Kudrna
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Jane Grimwood
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Shanmugam Rajasekar
- Arizona Genomics Institute, School of Plant Sciences, University of Arizona Tucson, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Jerry Jenkins
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Jeremy Schmutz
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, Berkeley, CA, USA.,HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Yves Van de Peer
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University - Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, Ghent, 9052, Belgium.,Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,College of Horticulture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210014, China
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Chee SY, Firth LB, Then AYH, Yee JC, Mujahid A, Affendi YA, Amir AA, Lau CM, Ooi JLS, Quek YA, Tan CE, Yap TK, Yeap CA, McQuatters-Gollop A. Enhancing Uptake of Nature-Based Solutions for Informing Coastal Sustainable Development Policy and Planning: A Malaysia Case Study. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.708507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nature-based Solutions (NbS) have been advocated to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural or modified ecosystems, simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits. The uptake of NbS differs regionally with some countries exhibiting greater uptake than others. The success of NbS also differs regionally with varying environmental conditions and social-ecological processes. In many regions, the body of knowledge, particularly around the efficacy of such efforts, remains fragmented. Having an “inventory” or “tool box” of regionally-trialed methods, outcomes and lessons learnt can improve the evidence base, inform adaptive management, and ultimately support the uptake of NbS. Using Malaysia as a case study, we provide a comprehensive overview of trialed and tested NbS efforts that used nature to address societal challenges in marine and coastal environments (here referring to mangroves, seagrass, coral reefs), and detailed these efforts according to their objectives, as well as their anticipated and actual outcomes. The NbS efforts were categorized according to the IUCN NbS approach typology and mapped to provide a spatial overview of IUCN NbS effort types. A total of 229 NbS efforts were collated, representing various levels of implementation success. From the assessment of these efforts, several key actions were identified as a way forward to enhance the uptake of Nature-based Solutions for informing coastal sustainable development policy and planning. These include increasing education, training, and knowledge sharing; rationalizing cooperation across jurisdictions, laws, and regulations; enhancing environmental monitoring; leveraging on existing policies; enabling collaboration and communication; and implementing sustainable finance instruments. These findings can be used to inform the improved application and uptake of NbS, globally.
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