Articles tagged with Coastal Ecosystems
Researchers have identified a hardy sea sponge that can thrive in polluted harbor habitats, demonstrating an exceptional ability to adapt and even reproduce asexually. The chicken kidney sponge showed outstanding resilience and was found to be particularly effective at filtering pollutants and recycling nutrients.
A new global database has been developed to map pathogens and antibiotic resistance risks in coastal waters, providing a practical tool for assessing biological risks. The Coastal Water Pathogen Database integrates shotgun metagenomic sequencing data from six coastal regions across three continents.
Giant kelp forests in Southern California are controlled by how much kelp survives disturbance, rather than its growth rate. Winter storms significantly shape their productivity, with disturbances removing biomass and changing forest recovery abilities.
A newly published paper reveals that Karenia cristata, the source of neurotoxins in a devastating South Australian algal bloom, is the most toxic species ever studied. The bloom caused mass mortality of marine animals and has taken an immense environmental toll on the region.
A study by Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research found that Lesser Black-backed Gulls rarely visit wind farms off the Zeeland coast, except for some male birds. Despite being attracted to fishing boats outside the wind farm, the gulls' behavior suggests they avoid entering the wind farm due to unknown reasons.
New research suggests that mangrove forests may not store as much carbon as previously thought, but instead release it as sea levels rise. The study found that localized areas may experience increased carbon storage, but the entire forest's storage is likely to decline over the next 100 years.
Seasonal sea level fluctuations are expected to intensify, affecting coastal ecosystems with prolonged submersion and changing flooding patterns. This can alter habitats for plants and animals living at the boundary between land and sea.
Researchers analyzed centuries-old Swedish newspapers to reconstruct past porpoise distribution patterns in the Baltic Sea. The study found that harbour porpoises once occupied a wider area than they do today, with a loss of about one third of their historic range. Historical records provide valuable insights for conservation efforts.
The study found a clear hump-shaped elevational pattern with species richness peaking at approximately 600 m, supporting the mid-domain effect. Community structure was differentiated by body size and biomass, with lizards contributing most of the individuals but only 66% of total biomass.
Researchers found a significant reduction in tree-ring growth after major hurricanes, but these trees can recover quickly within two years. Coastal forests in the Northeastern US are vulnerable to sea-level rise and stand dead or dying trees, posing a threat to densely populated communities.
Researchers tracked the impact of beach nourishment on nearshore conditions and marine life, finding that prolonged turbidity can interfere with blacktip shark hunting and increase accidental encounters. The study highlights a delicate balance between coastal engineering projects and marine ecosystem protection.
A new framework links body size, lifespan, and mobility to species' responses to multiple environmental pressures. The study suggests that smaller and less mobile species are more vulnerable to warming, while short-lived species exhibit variable responses over time.
A study published in Ecology Letters found that similarity in environmental conditions predicts local food web similarity across a continent. The researchers used satellite images and network analysis to identify habitat fragmentation and vegetation amount as major factors in shaping food webs.
A new study documents the rapid expansion of the Indo-Pacific crab Gonioinfradens giardi in the Ionian Sea, indicating a shift from sporadic occurrence to stable populations. The species' establishment raises concerns about its ecological role and interactions with native species.
The US Nature Assessment Report documents human impact on nature, including resource extraction and habitat loss, but also shows restoration and Indigenous stewardship approaches can help turn things around. The report highlights the importance of farmer involvement in protecting ecosystems and preserving biodiversity.
Researchers discovered novel microorganisms that rely on conductive particles to convert organic carbon to methane in sediments. These particle-dependent partnerships use the particles as an 'electron transfer conduit', allowing cells to collaborate even when physically separate.
Researchers found juvenile smalltooth sawfish showing strong site fidelity to the South Fork of the Saint Lucie River, spending up to 87% of their time within a 0.4 square kilometer area. This suggests that the Indian River Lagoon is once again functioning as a nursery for this endangered species.
A global analysis of over 2,300 seawater samples reveals human-made chemicals make up a significant portion of organic matter in coastal oceans. Industrial chemicals, including plastics and consumer products, dominate the anthropogenic chemical signal, persisting even 20 kilometers offshore.
A recent study on the 2021 North American heat wave reveals that some species, such as sea lettuce, were able to withstand the extreme temperatures, while others, like mussels and blueberry plants, suffered severe declines. The research highlights the importance of understanding these differing effects to prepare for future heat waves.
A global study found that safeguarding 7.3% more mangrove areas can increase their resilience by 13.3%, with climate-smart conservation being achievable and affordable
A new FAU study uncovers the impact of acidic water on shell-building marine organisms, highlighting the need for strategies to mitigate coastal acidification. The research found that nutrient pollution, freshwater input, and other environmental factors contribute to reduced aragonite saturation.
The Arctic is experiencing a rise in human-generated underwater noise due to melting ice and increased activity, disrupting wildlife and local communities. A new study from the University of Bath provides a clear framework for monitoring noise in Arctic waters, urging authorities to revise thresholds used to assess noise levels.
Decades of dredging have reduced feeding grounds for birds and made the estuary more vulnerable to sea-level rise. The report highlights the need for policymakers to use dredged sediment strategically for nature restoration and climate adaptation.
Marine darkwaves are short-term episodes of underwater darkness that can severely impact kelp forests, seagrass beds, and other light-dependent marine life. The researchers developed a framework to compare these events across the globe, finding between 25-80 marine darkwaves along the East Cape since 2002.
Climate change enables mangroves to colonize new regions, with warmer winters and storms driving dispersal. Ocean currents transport propagules from northern-edge and southern populations, allowing for potential expansion beyond current range limits.
A study found that a global pandemic is quietly wiping out sea urchins around the world, with populations nearing local extinction in the Canary Islands. The 2022-2023 mass mortality event affected the entire population of the species across the archipelago, causing a 74% decrease in La Palma and a 99.7% decrease in Tenerife.
New research reveals drift logs causing widespread destruction of rocky intertidal ecosystems, leading to population decline in barnacle beds and interstitial invertebrates. This disturbance is comparable to ice-scouring or heatwaves, emphasizing the need for conservation measures to protect organisms in the intertidal zone.
Researchers used drones to create detailed maps of a high-density nesting beach, identifying steepness and proximity to dune crossover stairs as key factors influencing turtle nesting success. The study provides insights into how changing coastal conditions affect sea turtle habitats, informing conservation policy and coastal development.
The FAU Queen Conch Lab has developed mobile lab hatcheries to restore threatened Caribbean queen conch populations and promote sustainable seafood production. These self-contained units bring advanced aquaculture capabilities to coastal communities, supporting education, employment, and food security.
Research suggests that American lobsters are more resilient to ocean acidification than previously thought, but they are highly sensitive to heat stress. The study found that warmer water led to faster embryo development, but smaller larvae with decreased survival prospects in the wild.
A study found that volcanic ash can enhance phytoplankton growth even at considerable distances from the volcanic site. Researchers detected a surge in phytoplankton levels around Mukojima Island, located 130 km northeast of Nishinoshima, after ash was transported by wind and ocean currents.
A new multi-diversity index (MDI) developed by the University of Queensland has opened up a market for coastal wetland restoration projects. The index measures biodiversity gains in restored ecosystems, enabling landholders and communities to earn tradeable certificates with a market value.
Researchers analyzed sediment cores to find a recurring 60-year cycle in carbon and silicon burial, showing human intervention led to changes in estuary ecosystems. Human activities like dam construction reduced organic matter delivery, while increased water clarity promoted algal growth.
Steve Canty has been appointed as the new director of the Smithsonian's Marine Global Earth Observatory (MarineGEO) network. As part of this role, he aims to expand how MarineGEO collaborates with communities to co-develop solutions for protecting and restoring coastal environments globally.
A landmark review published by FAU reveals that sargassum is a rapidly growing and widely distributed marine organism. The study found that the Atlantic Ocean's sargassum biomass has increased by over 50% since the 1980s, with nitrogen content rising sharply.
Researchers found river otter scat containing parasites that infect prey, indicating otters may play a crucial role in shaping their ecosystems. The study also discovered diverse diets and invasive species among the otters' meals.
Researchers have identified a previously undocumented class of PFAS in the blubber of killer whales, accumulating in fat-rich blubber. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that PFAS primarily bind to proteins and accumulate in liver or blood.
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework sets robust targets for protecting marine biodiversity, addressing its complexity and variability. By focusing on key indicators such as species distribution, genetic diversity, and ecosystem structure, policymakers can track changes and implement effective conservation measures.
Researchers found that providing hard substrate in deeper parts of the Wadden Sea actually discourages mussel and oyster settlement due to predation pressure. However, introducing substrates with high surface complexity can enhance shellfish settlement, offering shelter from predators.
A new study found that hermit crabs with more sensory hairs on their claws recover faster from a startle response, indicating they are bolder. The research suggests a link between sensory ability and behavior, proposing a hypothesis called sensory investment syndrome.
Researchers developed a model to detect early signs of marsh decline using satellite observations, identifying vulnerable areas along Georgia's coast. The study found belowground biomass has declined across 72% of Georgia's coastal marsh since 2014.
Scientists discovered that tiny anoxic pockets on sand grains can carry out denitrification, a process removing human-derived nitrogen from coastal sands. These microenvironments, created by microbes consuming oxygen, account for up to one-third of total nitrogen loss in silicate shelf sands.
Coastal lagoons are becoming increasingly salty due to climate change, affecting microbial life and ecosystem services. Restoration efforts can mitigate the impacts by restoring environmental flows, upgrading wastewater plants, and increasing nutrient retention.
Researchers found that sulfur runoff can dramatically increase methylmercury concentrations in fish up to 10 million times greater than the waters they lived in. This poses a significant risk to human health and wildlife due to methylmercury's neurotoxic effects.
A study led by Monterey Bay Aquarium shows that the collapse of one marine predator can benefit another. Sea otters thrive in response to increased availability of mussels after a mussel boom is triggered by the loss of ochre sea stars, demonstrating keystone interdependence.
A multidisciplinary survey in the eastern Indian sector of the Southern Ocean found that the southern boundary of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current has shifted southward, causing a change in water temperature and mac zooplankton composition. The survey also estimated the biomass of Antarctic krill in the area, with comparable results t...
Researchers created a new GIS-based multi-criteria decision tool to guide decisions on using nature-based shorelines or hybrid solutions in the Florida Keys. The study finds that nearly 8% of the shoreline is suitable for nature-based solutions, while 67% is already vegetated or represents another natural shoreline.
A new method has been developed to link individual microbes to their genetic code, providing insights into the activity of microorganisms in coastal sediments. The study reveals a diverse microbial community thriving in environments subject to frequent disruptions from rapid temperature changes and tides.
A new study led by University of Maryland geologist Sujay Kaushal finds that multiple threats are making fresh water saltier, including land-based pollution and saltwater intrusion. The researchers offer a framework for predicting and preventing the issue, which affects ecosystems, agriculture, and drinking water supplies.
Climate change impacts Arctic coastal ecosystems through melting glaciers, altering kelp growth and elemental composition. Kelps are highly susceptible to changes in run-off intensities, leading to increased metal concentrations and negative ecological consequences.
A study predicts East Coast estuaries will face devastating consequences from increased marine heat waves, with potential ecosystem collapse and job losses. The researchers found strong connections between estuaries in similar geographic regions, driven by atmospheric heat exchange.
Researchers from University of Jyväskylä recommend addressing vulnerabilities in coastal communities, such as uncontrolled shrimp farming and pollution. They suggest supporting environmentally friendly livelihoods like freshwater harvesting and agroforestry to promote sustainable development in mangrove forest areas.
Scientists at UMass Amherst accurately quantify coastal carbon storage using satellites, revealing 10 million cars' worth of carbon stored in top meter of soil and an additional 15,000-worth each year. The results are crucial for a resilient, low-carbon future, highlighting the potential for salt marshes to mitigate climate change.
Researchers captured three instances of coyotes dragging and devouring baby harbor seal pups on MacKerricher State Beach. The study found that the coyotes' brain was often the first part eaten, with other predators like vultures and ravens also feeding on the carcasses.
A new study by UC Santa Cruz researchers identifies the most vulnerable marine species in California's coastal waters due to climate change. The study categorizes over 34 fish and invertebrate species into four vulnerability levels, providing a clear framework for fisheries managers to prioritize conservation and adaptation efforts.
Nanomaterials are being studied for their potential in combating marine oil spills, with promising results showing improved removal efficiency and reduced toxicity. The researchers emphasize the need for eco-friendly and sustainable approaches to minimize environmental risks.
Researchers from Heidelberg University found the oldest evidence of human-caused lead contamination in the Aegean region, dated to approximately 5,200 years ago. This early contamination is linked to socioeconomic change and historical events such as the Roman conquest of Greece.
Researchers will focus on novel non-plastic materials used for oyster reef restoration, evaluating their impact on surrounding marine habitats. The project aims to find solutions that bring the natural environment back after degradation from storms or human impact.
A new study found that a unique population of large fish-eating herring has evolved in the Baltic Sea, exhibiting faster growth rates and lower levels of pollutants. These herring have adapted to the brackish water by switching from plankton-eating to a fish diet, with potential benefits for human consumption.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that Aldabra Atoll's shoreline has maintained its net shoreline and total land area over 51 years, with an average change rate of 25 cm per year. The lagoon shoreline underwent more rapid changes than the ocean shoreline, particularly in areas exposed to wind and waves.