1
|
Muenzel D, Critchell K, Cox C, Campbell SJ, Jakub R, Suherfian W, Sara L, Chollett I, Treml EA, Beger M. Integrating larval connectivity into the marine conservation decision-making process across spatial scales. Conserv Biol 2023; 37:e14038. [PMID: 36478610 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Larval dispersal connectivity is typically integrated into spatial conservation decisions at regional or national scales, but implementing agencies struggle with translating these methods to local scales. We used larval dispersal connectivity at regional (hundreds of kilometers) and local (tens of kilometers) scales to aid in design of networks of no-take reserves in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. We used Marxan with Connectivity informed by biophysical larval dispersal models and remotely sensed coral reef habitat data to design marine reserve networks for 4 commercially important reef species across the region. We complemented regional spatial prioritization with decision trees that combined network-based connectivity metrics and habitat quality to design reserve boundaries locally. Decision trees were used in consensus-based workshops with stakeholders to qualitatively assess site desirability, and Marxan was used to identify areas for subsequent network expansion. Priority areas for protection and expected benefits differed among species, with little overlap in reserve network solutions. Because reef quality varied considerably across reefs, we suggest reef degradation must inform the interpretation of larval dispersal patterns and the conservation benefits achievable from protecting reefs. Our methods can be readily applied by conservation practitioners, in this region and elsewhere, to integrate connectivity data across multiple spatial scales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Muenzel
- School of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kay Critchell
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Raymond Jakub
- Rare, Arlington, Virginia, USA
- Rare Indonesia, Kota Bogor, Indonesia
| | | | - La Sara
- Department of Aquatic Resources Management, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Haluoleo University, Kendari, Indonesia
| | | | - Eric A Treml
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria Beger
- School of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Muenzel D, Critchell K, Cox C, Campbell SJ, Jakub R, Chollett I, Krueck N, Holstein D, Treml EA, Beger M. Comparing spatial conservation prioritization methods with site- versus spatial dependency-based connectivity. Conserv Biol 2023; 37:e14008. [PMID: 36178033 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Larval dispersal is an important component of marine reserve networks. Two conceptually different approaches to incorporate dispersal connectivity into spatial planning of these networks exist, and it is an open question as to when either is most appropriate. Candidate reserve sites can be selected individually based on local properties of connectivity or on a spatial dependency-based approach of selecting clusters of strongly connected habitat patches. The first acts on individual sites, whereas the second acts on linked pairs of sites. We used a combination of larval dispersal simulations representing different seascapes and case studies of biophysical larval dispersal models in the Coral Triangle region and the province of Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, to compare the performance of these 2 methods in the spatial planning software Marxan. We explored the reserve design performance implications of different dispersal distances and patterns based on the equilibrium settlement of larvae in protected and unprotected areas. We further assessed different assumptions about metapopulation contributions from unprotected areas, including the case of 100% depletion and more moderate scenarios. The spatial dependency method was suitable when dispersal was limited, a high proportion of the area of interest was substantially degraded, or the target amount of habitat protected was low. Conversely, when subpopulations were well connected, the 100% depletion was relaxed, or more habitat was protected, protecting individual sites with high scores in metrics of connectivity was a better strategy. Spatial dependency methods generally produced more spatially clustered solutions with more benefits inside than outside reserves compared with site-based methods. Therefore, spatial dependency methods potentially provide better results for ecological persistence objectives over enhancing fisheries objectives, and vice versa. Different spatial prioritization methods of using connectivity are appropriate for different contexts, depending on dispersal characteristics, unprotected area contributions, habitat protection targets, and specific management objectives. Comparación entre los métodos de priorización de la conservación espacial con sitio y la conectividad espacial basada en la dependencia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Muenzel
- School of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kay Critchell
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Raymond Jakub
- Rare, Arlington, Virginia, USA
- Rare Indonesia, Bogor, Indonesia
| | | | - Nils Krueck
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Daniel Holstein
- Department of Oceanography and Coastal Science, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Eric A Treml
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria Beger
- School of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Elahi R, Edmunds PJ, Gates RD, Kuffner IB, Barnes BB, Chollett I, Courtney TA, Guest JR, Lenz EA, Toth LT, Viehman TS, Williams ID. Scale dependence of coral reef oases and their environmental correlates. Ecol Appl 2022; 32:e2651. [PMID: 35538862 PMCID: PMC9787915 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Identifying relatively intact areas within ecosystems and determining the conditions favoring their existence is necessary for effective management in the context of widespread environmental degradation. In this study, we used 3766 surveys of randomly selected sites in the United States and U.S. Territories to identify the correlates of sites categorized as "oases" (defined as sites with relatively high total coral cover). We used occupancy models to evaluate the influence of 10 environmental predictors on the probability that an area (21.2-km2 cell) would harbor coral oases defined at four spatial extents: cross-basin, basin, region, and subregion. Across all four spatial extents, oases were more likely to occur in habitats with high light attenuation. The influence of the other environmental predictors on the probability of oasis occurrence were less consistent and varied with the scale of observation. Oases were most likely in areas of low human population density, but this effect was evident only at the cross-basin and subregional extents. At the regional and subregional extents oases were more likely where sea-surface temperature was more variable, whereas at the larger spatial extents the opposite was true. By identifying the correlates of oasis occurrence, the model can inform the prioritization of reef areas for management. Areas with biophysical conditions that confer corals with physiological resilience, as well as limited human impacts, likely support coral reef oases across spatial extents. Our approach is widely applicable to the development of conservation strategies to protect biodiversity and ecosystems in an era of magnified human disturbance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin Elahi
- Hopkins Marine StationStanford UniversityPacific GroveCaliforniaUSA
| | - Peter J. Edmunds
- Department of BiologyCalifornia State UniversityNorthridgeCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ruth D. Gates
- Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine BiologyUniversity of Hawaiʻi at MānoaKāneʻoheHawaiiUSA
| | - Ilsa B. Kuffner
- U.S. Geological SurveySt. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science CenterSt. PetersburgFloridaUSA
| | - Brian B. Barnes
- College of Marine ScienceUniversity of South FloridaSt. PetersburgFloridaUSA
| | | | - Travis A. Courtney
- Scripps Institution of OceanographyUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Marine SciencesUniversity of Puerto Rico MayagüezMayagüezPuerto RicoUSA
| | - James R. Guest
- School of Natural and Environmental SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Elizabeth A. Lenz
- University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College ProgramUniversity of Hawaiʻi at MānoaHonoluluHawaiiUSA
| | - Lauren T. Toth
- U.S. Geological SurveySt. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science CenterSt. PetersburgFloridaUSA
| | - T. Shay Viehman
- National Centers for Coastal Ocean ScienceNational Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric AdministrationBeaufortNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Ivor D. Williams
- Pacific Islands Fisheries Science CenterNational Oceanic and Atmospheric AdministrationHonoluluHawaiiUSA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chollett I, Escovar‐Fadul X, Schill SR, Croquer A, Dixon AM, Beger M, Shaver E, Pietsch McNulty V, Wolff NH. Planning for resilience: Incorporating scenario and model uncertainty and trade-offs when prioritizing management of climate refugia. Glob Chang Biol 2022; 28:4054-4068. [PMID: 35420230 PMCID: PMC9322576 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Climate change has become the greatest threat to the world's ecosystems. Locating and managing areas that contribute to the survival of key species under climate change is critical for the persistence of ecosystems in the future. Here, we identify 'Climate Priority' sites as coral reefs exposed to relatively low levels of climate stress that will be more likely to persist in the future. We present the first analysis of uncertainty in climate change scenarios and models, along with multiple objectives, in a marine spatial planning exercise and offer a comprehensive approach to incorporating uncertainty and trade-offs in any ecosystem. We first described each site using environmental characteristics that are associated with a higher chance of persistence (larval connectivity, hurricane influence, and acute and chronic temperature conditions in the past and the future). Future temperature increases were assessed using downscaled data under four different climate scenarios (SSP1 2.6, SSP2 4.5, SSP3 7.0 and SSP5 8.5) and 57 model runs. We then prioritized sites for intervention (conservation, improved management or restoration) using robust decision-making approaches that select sites that will have a benign climate under most climate scenarios and models. The modelling work is novel because it solves two important issues. (1) It considers trade-offs between multiple planning objectives explicitly through Pareto analyses and (2) It makes use of all the uncertainty around future climate change. Priority intervention sites identified by the model were verified and refined through local stakeholder engagement including assessments of local threats, ecological conditions and government priorities. The workflow is presented for the Insular Caribbean and Florida, and at the national level for Cuba, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and Haiti. Our approach allows managers to consider uncertainty and multiple objectives for climate-smart spatial management in coral reefs or any ecosystem across the globe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Steven R. Schill
- Caribbean DivisionThe Nature ConservancyCoral GablesFloridaUnited States
| | - Aldo Croquer
- Caribbean DivisionThe Nature ConservancyCoral GablesFloridaUnited States
- Departamento de Estudios AmbientalesLaboratorio de Ecología ExperimentalUniversidad Simón BolívarCaracasMirandaVenezuela
| | - Adele M. Dixon
- School of BiologyFaculty of Biological SciencesUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
| | - Maria Beger
- School of BiologyFaculty of Biological SciencesUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation ScienceSchool of Biological SciencesUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Elizabeth Shaver
- Caribbean DivisionThe Nature ConservancyCoral GablesFloridaUnited States
| | | | - Nicholas H. Wolff
- Global ScienceThe Nature ConservancyBrunswickMaineUnited States
- Marine Spatial Ecology LabUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Courtney TA, Barnes BB, Chollett I, Elahi R, Gross K, Guest JR, Kuffner IB, Lenz EA, Nelson HR, Rogers CS, Toth LT, Andersson AJ. Disturbances drive changes in coral community assemblages and coral calcification capacity. Ecosphere 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Travis A. Courtney
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography University of California San Diego La Jolla California 92093 USA
| | - Brian B. Barnes
- College of Marine Science University of South Florida St. Petersburg Florida 33701 USA
| | | | - Robin Elahi
- Hopkins Marine Station Stanford University Pacific Grove California 93950 USA
| | - Kevin Gross
- Department of Statistics North Carolina State University Raleigh North Carolina 27695 USA
| | - James R. Guest
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences Newcastle University Newcastle upon Tyne NE17RU UK
| | - Ilsa B. Kuffner
- U.S. Geological Survey, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center St. Petersburg Florida 33701 USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Lenz
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology University of Hawai'i Kāne'ohe Hawai'i 96744 USA
| | - Hannah R. Nelson
- Department of Biology California State University Northridge California 91330 USA
| | - Caroline S. Rogers
- U.S. Geological Survey, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center St John U.S. Virgin Islands USA
| | - Lauren T. Toth
- U.S. Geological Survey, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center St. Petersburg Florida 33701 USA
| | - Andreas J. Andersson
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography University of California San Diego La Jolla California 92093 USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Muñiz-Castillo AI, Rivera-Sosa A, Chollett I, Eakin CM, Andrade-Gómez L, McField M, Arias-González JE. Three decades of heat stress exposure in Caribbean coral reefs: a new regional delineation to enhance conservation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11013. [PMID: 31358849 PMCID: PMC6662696 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47307-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing heat stress due to global climate change is causing coral reef decline, and the Caribbean has been one of the most vulnerable regions. Here, we assessed three decades (1985-2017) of heat stress exposure in the wider Caribbean at ecoregional and local scales using remote sensing. We found a high spatial and temporal variability of heat stress, emphasizing an observed increase in heat exposure over time in most ecoregions, especially from 2003 identified as a temporal change point in heat stress. A spatiotemporal analysis classified the Caribbean into eight heat-stress regions offering a new regionalization scheme based on historical heat exposure patterns. The temporal analysis confirmed the years 1998, 2005, 2010-2011, 2015 and 2017 as severe and widespread Caribbean heat-stress events and recognized a change point in 2002-2004, after which heat exposure has been frequent in most subsequent years. Major heat-stress events may be associated with El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), but we highlight the relevance of the long-term increase in heat exposure in most ecoregions and in all ENSO phases. This work produced a new baseline and regionalization of heat stress in the basin that will enhance conservation and planning efforts underway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aarón Israel Muñiz-Castillo
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Ecosistemas de Arrecifes Coralinos, Departamento de Recursos del Mar, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del I.P.N. Mérida, 97310, Yucatán, Mexico.
| | - Andrea Rivera-Sosa
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Ecosistemas de Arrecifes Coralinos, Departamento de Recursos del Mar, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del I.P.N. Mérida, 97310, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Marine Station, Smithsonian Institution, Fort Pierce, Florida, 34949, USA
| | - C Mark Eakin
- Coral Reef Watch, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, College Park, Maryland, 20740, USA
| | - Luisa Andrade-Gómez
- Unidad de Recursos Naturales, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán, A.C., Mérida, 97200, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Melanie McField
- Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, Smithsonian Marine Station, Fort Pierce, Florida, 34949, USA
| | - Jesús Ernesto Arias-González
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Ecosistemas de Arrecifes Coralinos, Departamento de Recursos del Mar, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del I.P.N. Mérida, 97310, Yucatán, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Roff G, Bejarano S, Priest M, Marshell A, Chollett I, Steneck RS, Doropoulos C, Golbuu Y, Mumby PJ. Seascapes as drivers of herbivore assemblages in coral reef ecosystems. ECOL MONOGR 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/ecm.1336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- George Roff
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab; School of Biological Sciences; University of Queensland; St Lucia Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - Sonia Bejarano
- Reef Systems Research Group, Ecology Department; Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT); Fahrenheitstraße 6 28359 Bremen Germany
| | - Mark Priest
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab; School of Biological Sciences; University of Queensland; St Lucia Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - Alyssa Marshell
- Department of Marine Science and Fisheries; College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences; Sultan Qaboos University; Muscat Oman
| | - Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Marine Station; Smithsonian Institution; Fort Pierce Florida 34949 USA
| | - Robert S. Steneck
- Darling Marine Center; School of Marine Sciences; University of Maine; Walpole Maine 04573 USA
| | | | | | - Peter J. Mumby
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab; School of Biological Sciences; University of Queensland; St Lucia Queensland 4072 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Guest JR, Edmunds PJ, Gates RD, Kuffner IB, Andersson AJ, Barnes BB, Chollett I, Courtney TA, Elahi R, Gross K, Lenz EA, Mitarai S, Mumby PJ, Nelson HR, Parker BA, Putnam HM, Rogers CS, Toth LT. A framework for identifying and characterising coral reef “oases” against a backdrop of degradation. J Appl Ecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- James R. Guest
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine BiologyUniversity of Hawai'i Kāneʻohe Hawaii
| | - Peter J. Edmunds
- Department of BiologyCalifornia State University Northridge California
| | - Ruth D. Gates
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine BiologyUniversity of Hawai'i Kāneʻohe Hawaii
| | - Ilsa B. Kuffner
- U.S. Geological SurveySt. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center St. Petersburg Florida
| | - Andreas J. Andersson
- Scripps Institution of OceanographyUniversity of California, San Diego La Jolla California
| | - Brian B. Barnes
- College of Marine ScienceUniversity of South Florida St Petersburg Florida
| | - Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Marine StationSmithsonian Institution Fort Pierce Florida
| | - Travis A. Courtney
- Scripps Institution of OceanographyUniversity of California, San Diego La Jolla California
| | - Robin Elahi
- Hopkins Marine StationStanford University Pacific Grove California
| | - Kevin Gross
- Biomathematics Graduate ProgramNorth Carolina State University Raleigh North Carolina
| | - Elizabeth A. Lenz
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine BiologyUniversity of Hawai'i Kāneʻohe Hawaii
| | - Satoshi Mitarai
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University Okinawa Japan
| | - Peter J. Mumby
- Marine Spatial Ecology LabSchool of Biological Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence for Reef StudiesUniversity of Queensland St Lucia Qld Australia
| | - Hannah R. Nelson
- Department of BiologyCalifornia State University Northridge California
| | - Britt A. Parker
- The Baldwin Group, Inc. on Contract at the NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program Silver Spring Maryland
| | - Hollie M. Putnam
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of Rhode Island Kingston Rhode Island
| | - Caroline S. Rogers
- U.S. Geological Survey, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center St John Virgin Islands
| | - Lauren T. Toth
- U.S. Geological SurveySt. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center St. Petersburg Florida
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Garavelli L, White JW, Chollett I, Chérubin LM. Population models reveal unexpected patterns of local persistence despite widespread larval dispersal in a highly exploited species. Conserv Lett 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/conl.12567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lysel Garavelli
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute; Florida Atlantic University; Fort Pierce Florida
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory; Richland Washington
| | - J. Wilson White
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology; University of North Carolina Wilmington; Wilmington North Carolina
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Coastal Oregon Marine Experiment Station; Oregon State University; Newport Oregon
| | - Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Marine Station; Smithsonian Institution; Fort Pierce Florida
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chollett I, Collin R, Bastidas C, Cróquer A, Gayle PMH, Jordán-Dahlgren E, Koltes K, Oxenford H, Rodriguez-Ramirez A, Weil E, Alemu J, Bone D, Buchan KC, Ford MC, Escalante-Mancera E, Garzón-Ferreira J, Guzmán HM, Kjerfve B, Klein E, McCoy C, Potts AC, Ruíz-Rentería F, Smith SR, Tschirky J, Cortés J. Correction: Widespread local chronic stressors in Caribbean coastal habitats. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0192016. [PMID: 29370312 PMCID: PMC5785015 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0192016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
|
11
|
Chollett I, Collin R, Bastidas C, Cróquer A, Gayle PMH, Jordán-Dahlgren E, Koltes K, Oxenford H, Rodriguez-Ramirez A, Weil E, Alemu J, Bone D, Buchan KC, Creary Ford M, Escalante-Mancera E, Garzón-Ferreira J, Guzmán HM, Kjerfve B, Klein E, McCoy C, Potts AC, Ruíz-Rentería F, Smith SR, Tschirky J, Cortés J. Widespread local chronic stressors in Caribbean coastal habitats. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188564. [PMID: 29261694 PMCID: PMC5737976 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Coastal ecosystems and the livelihoods they support are threatened by stressors acting at global and local scales. Here we used the data produced by the Caribbean Coastal Marine Productivity program (CARICOMP), the longest, largest monitoring program in the wider Caribbean, to evidence local-scale (decreases in water quality) and global-scale (increases in temperature) stressors across the basin. Trend analyses showed that visibility decreased at 42% of the stations, indicating that local-scale chronic stressors are widespread. On the other hand, only 18% of the stations showed increases in water temperature that would be expected from global warming, partially reflecting the limits in detecting trends due to inherent natural variability of temperature data. Decreases in visibility were associated with increased human density. However, this link can be decoupled by environmental factors, with conditions that increase the flush of water, dampening the effects of human influence. Besides documenting environmental stressors throughout the basin, our results can be used to inform future monitoring programs, if the desire is to identify stations that provide early warning signals of anthropogenic impacts. All CARICOMP environmental data are now available, providing an invaluable baseline that can be used to strengthen research, conservation, and management of coastal ecosystems in the Caribbean basin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Marine Station, Smithsonian Institution, Fort Pierce, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Rachel Collin
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Smithsonian Institution, Panama City, Panama
| | - Carolina Bastidas
- Departamento de Biología de Organismos, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Caracas, Venezuela
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sea Grant Program, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Aldo Cróquer
- Departamento de Estudios Ambientales, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Peter M. H. Gayle
- Discovery Bay Marine Laboratory, Centre for Marine Sciences, University of the West Indies, St. Ann, Jamaica
| | - Eric Jordán-Dahlgren
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
| | - Karen Koltes
- Office of Insular Affairs, US Department of the Interior, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Hazel Oxenford
- Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies, University of the West Indies, Cave Hill, Barbados
| | | | - Ernesto Weil
- University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
| | - Jahson Alemu
- University of the West Indies, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - David Bone
- Instituto de Tecnología y Ciencias Marinas, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Kenneth C. Buchan
- Environment and Economy Directorate, Dorset County Council, Dorchester, Dorset, United Kingdom
| | | | - Edgar Escalante-Mancera
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
| | | | - Hector M. Guzmán
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Smithsonian Institution, Panama City, Panama
| | - Björn Kjerfve
- American University of Sharjah, Sharja, United Arab Emirates
| | - Eduardo Klein
- Departamento de Estudios Ambientales, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Croy McCoy
- Department of Environment, Cayman Islands Government, Georgetown, Grand Cayman
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Gwyneth, United Kingdom
| | - Arthur C. Potts
- University of Trinidad and Tobago, Chaguaramas, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Francisco Ruíz-Rentería
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
| | | | - John Tschirky
- American Bird Conservancy, International Program, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Jorge Cortés
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kennedy EV, Tonk L, Foster NL, Chollett I, Ortiz JC, Dove S, Hoegh-Guldberg O, Mumby PJ, Stevens JR. Symbiodinium biogeography tracks environmental patterns rather than host genetics in a key Caribbean reef-builder, Orbicella annularis. Proc Biol Sci 2017; 283:rspb.2016.1938. [PMID: 27807263 PMCID: PMC5124097 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2016.1938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological performance of a reef-building coral is a combined outcome of both the coral host and its algal endosymbionts, Symbiodinium. While Orbicella annularis—a dominant reef-building coral in the Wider Caribbean—is known to be a flexible host in terms of the diversity of Symbiodinium types it can associate with, it is uncertain how this diversity varies across the Caribbean, and whether spatial variability in the symbiont community is related to either O. annularis genotype or environment. Here, we target the Symbiodinium-ITS2 gene to characterize and map dominant Symbiodinium hosted by O. annularis at an unprecedented spatial scale. We reveal northwest–southeast partitioning across the Caribbean, both in terms of the dominant symbiont taxa hosted and in assemblage diversity. Multivariate regression analyses incorporating a suite of environmental and genetic factors reveal that observed spatial patterns are predominantly explained by chronic thermal stress (summer temperatures) and are unrelated to host genotype. Furthermore, we were able to associate the presence of specific Symbiodinium types with local environmental drivers (for example, Symbiodinium C7 with areas experiencing cooler summers, B1j with nutrient loading and B17 with turbidity), associations that have not previously been described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma V Kennedy
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK .,Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, 4111 Queensland, Australia
| | - Linda Tonk
- Coral Reef Ecosystems Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, 4072 Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicola L Foster
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.,School of Marine Science and Engineering, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Marine Station, Smithsonian Institution, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
| | - Juan-Carlos Ortiz
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, 4072 Queensland, Australia
| | - Sophie Dove
- Coral Reef Ecosystems Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, 4072 Queensland, Australia
| | - Ove Hoegh-Guldberg
- Coral Reef Ecosystems Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, 4072 Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter J Mumby
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.,Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, 4072 Queensland, Australia
| | - Jamie R Stevens
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bejarano S, Jouffray J, Chollett I, Allen R, Roff G, Marshell A, Steneck R, Ferse SCA, Mumby PJ. The shape of success in a turbulent world: wave exposure filtering of coral reef herbivory. Funct Ecol 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Bejarano
- Department of Ecology Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) Fahrenheitstraße 6 28359 Bremen Germany
| | - Jean‐Baptiste Jouffray
- Global Economic Dynamics and the Biosphere Academy Programme Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences PO Box 50005 Stockholm104 05 Sweden
- Stockholm Resilience Centre Stockholm University Stockholm106 91 Sweden
| | - Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Marine Station Smithsonian Institution Fort Pierce FL34949 USA
| | - Robert Allen
- Department of Life Sciences Silwood Park Imperial College London Ascot UK
| | - George Roff
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab School of Biological Sciences & ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies The University of Queensland St. Lucia Qld4072 Australia
| | - Alyssa Marshell
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab School of Biological Sciences & ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies The University of Queensland St. Lucia Qld4072 Australia
- Department of Marine Science and Fisheries College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences Sultan Qaboos University PO Box 34 Al Khoud 123 Muscat Oman
| | - Robert Steneck
- School of Marine Sciences University of Maine Darling Marine Center Walpole ME04573 USA
| | - Sebastian C. A. Ferse
- Department of Ecology Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) Fahrenheitstraße 6 28359 Bremen Germany
- Department of Geography University of Hawaii Mānoa 2424 Maile Way Honolulu HI96822 USA
| | - Peter J. Mumby
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab School of Biological Sciences & ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies The University of Queensland St. Lucia Qld4072 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chollett I, Garavelli L, O'Farrell S, Cherubin L, Matthews TR, Mumby PJ, Box SJ. A Genuine Win‐Win: Resolving the “Conserve or Catch” Conflict in Marine Reserve Network Design. Conserv Lett 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/conl.12318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Marine Station Smithsonian Institution Fort Pierce FL 34949 USA
- Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute University of California Davis Davis CA 95616 USA
| | - Lysel Garavelli
- Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Fort Pierce FL 4946 USA
| | - Shay O'Farrell
- Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute University of California Davis Davis CA 95616 USA
| | - Laurent Cherubin
- Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Fort Pierce FL 4946 USA
| | - Thomas R. Matthews
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Florida Marine Research Institute Marathon FL 33050 USA
| | - Peter J. Mumby
- Marine Spatial Ecology Laboratory and ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Stephen J. Box
- Smithsonian Marine Station Smithsonian Institution Fort Pierce FL 34949 USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chollett I, Box SJ, Mumby PJ. Quantifying the squeezing or stretching of fisheries as they adapt to displacement by marine reserves. Conserv Biol 2016; 30:166-175. [PMID: 26096358 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2015] [Revised: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The designation of no-take marine reserves involves social and economic concerns due to the resulting displacement of fishing effort, when fishing rights are removed from those who traditionally fished within an area. Displacement can influence the functioning of the fishery and success of the reserve, yet levels of displacement are seldom quantified after reserve implementation and very rarely before that. We devised a simple analytical framework based on set theory to facilitate reserve placement. Implementation of the framework requires maps of fishing grounds, fishing effort, or catch per unit effort for at least 2 years. The framework quantifies the level of conflict that a reserve designation might cause in the fishing sector due to displacement and the opportunities to offset the conflict through fisher spatial mobility (i.e., ability of fishers to fish elsewhere). We also considered how the outputs of the framework can be used to identify targeted management interventions for each fishery. We applied the method in Honduras, where the largest marine protected area in Central America is being placed, for which spatial data on fishing effort were available for 6 fisheries over 3 years. The proposed closure had a greater negative impact on the shrimp and lobster scuba fisheries, which concentrated respectively 28% and 18% of their effort inside the reserve. These fisheries could not accommodate the displacement within existing fishing grounds. Both would be forced to stretch into new fishing grounds, which are available but are of unknown quality. These stakeholders will likely require compensation to offset costly exploratory fishing or to travel to fishing grounds farther away from port.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iliana Chollett
- Smithsonian Institution, Smithsonian Marine Station, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, U.S.A
- University of Exeter, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
- University of Queensland, School of Biological Sciences, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Stephen J Box
- Smithsonian Institution, Smithsonian Marine Station, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, U.S.A
| | - Peter J Mumby
- University of Exeter, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
- University of Queensland, School of Biological Sciences, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
González-Rivero M, Bozec YM, Chollett I, Ferrari R, Schönberg CHL, Mumby PJ. Asymmetric competition prevents the outbreak of an opportunistic species after coral reef degradation. Oecologia 2016; 181:161-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s00442-015-3541-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 12/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
17
|
Rogers A, Harborne AR, Brown CJ, Bozec YM, Castro C, Chollett I, Hock K, Knowland CA, Marshell A, Ortiz JC, Razak T, Roff G, Samper-Villarreal J, Saunders MI, Wolff NH, Mumby PJ. Anticipative management for coral reef ecosystem services in the 21st century. Glob Chang Biol 2015; 21:504-14. [PMID: 25179273 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Under projections of global climate change and other stressors, significant changes in the ecology, structure and function of coral reefs are predicted. Current management strategies tend to look to the past to set goals, focusing on halting declines and restoring baseline conditions. Here, we explore a complementary approach to decision making that is based on the anticipation of future changes in ecosystem state, function and services. Reviewing the existing literature and utilizing a scenario planning approach, we explore how the structure of coral reef communities might change in the future in response to global climate change and overfishing. We incorporate uncertainties in our predictions by considering heterogeneity in reef types in relation to structural complexity and primary productivity. We examine 14 ecosystem services provided by reefs, and rate their sensitivity to a range of future scenarios and management options. Our predictions suggest that the efficacy of management is highly dependent on biophysical characteristics and reef state. Reserves are currently widely used and are predicted to remain effective for reefs with high structural complexity. However, when complexity is lost, maximizing service provision requires a broader portfolio of management approaches, including the provision of artificial complexity, coral restoration, fish aggregation devices and herbivore management. Increased use of such management tools will require capacity building and technique refinement and we therefore conclude that diversification of our management toolbox should be considered urgently to prepare for the challenges of managing reefs into the 21st century.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Rogers
- Marine Spatial Ecology Laboratory and Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia Campus, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia; Marine Spatial Ecology Laboratory, Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang M, Ahmadia GN, Chollett I, Huang C, Fox H, Wijonarno A, Madden M. Delineating biophysical environments of the Sunda Banda Seascape, Indonesia. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2015; 12:1069-82. [PMID: 25648170 PMCID: PMC4344655 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120201069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Sunda Banda Seascape (SBS), located in the center of the Coral Triangle, is a global center of marine biodiversity and a conservation priority. We proposed the first biophysical environmental delineation of the SBS using globally available satellite remote sensing and model-assimilated data to categorize this area into unique and meaningful biophysical classes. Specifically, the SBS was partitioned into eight biophysical classes characterized by similar sea surface temperature, chlorophyll a concentration, currents, and salinity patterns. Areas within each class were expected to have similar habitat types and ecosystem functions. Our work supplemented prevailing global marine management schemes by focusing in on a regional scale with finer spatial resolution. It also provided a baseline for academic research, ecological assessments and will facilitate marine spatial planning and conservation activities in the area. In addition, the framework and methods of delineating biophysical environments we presented can be expanded throughout the whole Coral Triangle to support research and conservation activities in this important region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingshu Wang
- Center for Geospatial Research, Department of Geography, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
- Conservation Science Program, World Wildlife Fund-US, Washington, D.C. 20037, USA.
| | - Gabby N Ahmadia
- Conservation Science Program, World Wildlife Fund-US, Washington, D.C. 20037, USA.
| | - Iliana Chollett
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon EX4 4SB, UK.
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Charles Huang
- Conservation Science Program, World Wildlife Fund-US, Washington, D.C. 20037, USA.
| | - Helen Fox
- Conservation Science Program, World Wildlife Fund-US, Washington, D.C. 20037, USA.
| | - Anton Wijonarno
- Coral Triangle Program, World Wildlife Fund-Indonesia, Jakarta Selatan 12540, Indonesia.
| | - Marguerite Madden
- Center for Geospatial Research, Department of Geography, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chollett I, Enríquez S, Mumby PJ. Redefining thermal regimes to design reserves for coral reefs in the face of climate change. PLoS One 2014; 9:e110634. [PMID: 25333380 PMCID: PMC4204933 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0110634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reef managers cannot fight global warming through mitigation at local scale, but they can use information on thermal patterns to plan for reserve networks that maximize the probability of persistence of their reef system. Here we assess previous methods for the design of reserves for climate change and present a new approach to prioritize areas for conservation that leverages the most desirable properties of previous approaches. The new method moves the science of reserve design for climate change a step forwards by: (1) recognizing the role of seasonal acclimation in increasing the limits of environmental tolerance of corals and ameliorating the bleaching response; (2) using the best proxy for acclimatization currently available; (3) including information from several bleaching events, which frequency is likely to increase in the future; (4) assessing relevant variability at country scales, where most management plans are carried out. We demonstrate the method in Honduras, where a reassessment of the marine spatial plan is in progress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iliana Chollett
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences, Goddard Building, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Susana Enríquez
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, México
| | - Peter J. Mumby
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences, Goddard Building, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Mumby
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences & ARC Centre of Excellence for Reef Studies; University of Queensland; St Lucia Qld 4072 Australia
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, College of Life Sciences; University of Exeter; Exeter Devon EX4 4PS UK
| | - Nicholas H. Wolff
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences & ARC Centre of Excellence for Reef Studies; University of Queensland; St Lucia Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Yves-Marie Bozec
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences & ARC Centre of Excellence for Reef Studies; University of Queensland; St Lucia Qld 4072 Australia
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, College of Life Sciences; University of Exeter; Exeter Devon EX4 4PS UK
| | - Iliana Chollett
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, School of Biological Sciences & ARC Centre of Excellence for Reef Studies; University of Queensland; St Lucia Qld 4072 Australia
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, College of Life Sciences; University of Exeter; Exeter Devon EX4 4PS UK
| | - Paul Halloran
- Meteorological Office; FitzRoy Road Exeter EX1 3PB UK
- School of Geography, College of Life and Environmental Sciences; University of Exeter; Exeter Devon, EX4 4RJ UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Chollett I, Müller-Karger FE, Heron SF, Skirving W, Mumby PJ. Seasonal and spatial heterogeneity of recent sea surface temperature trends in the Caribbean Sea and southeast Gulf of Mexico. Mar Pollut Bull 2012; 64:956-65. [PMID: 22406045 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2012.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2011] [Revised: 02/09/2012] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent changes in ocean temperature have impacted marine ecosystem function globally. Nevertheless, the responses have depended upon the rate of change of temperature and the season when the changes occur, which are spatially variable. A rigorous statistical analysis of sea surface temperature observations over 25 years was used to examine spatial variability in overall and seasonal temperature trends within the wider Caribbean. The basin has experienced high spatial variability in rates of change of temperature. Most of the warming has been due to increases in summer rather than winter temperatures. However, warming was faster in winter in the Loop Current area and the south-eastern Caribbean, where the annual temperature ranges have contracted. Waters off Florida, Cuba and the Bahamas had a tendency towards cooling in winter, increasing the amplitude of annual temperature ranges. These detailed patterns can be used to elucidate ecological responses to climatic change in the region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iliana Chollett
- Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|