Population Connectivity in a Dynamic Coastal System

Population Connectivity in a Dynamic Coastal System PDF Author: Kathryn Shulzitski
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

Get Book Here

Book Description
Population connectivity (i.e., the exchange of individuals among geographically distinct subpopulations) is an issue of particular relevance in the marine environment, as the majority of benthic marine organisms have complex life cycles and dispersal events occurring in the early life stages are nearly impossible to track. As the magnitude and direction of larval dispersal are shaped ultimately by larval distributions, growth, mortality, and transport to adult habitat, this dissertation examined these processes for larval reef fishes in the Straits of Florida (SOF) to contribute to the understanding of patterns of population connectivity along a continental coastline. An analysis of spatially and temporally extensive ichthyoplankton collections and associated environmental data demonstrated that environmental variation through the vertical water column was most important in structuring larval assemblages in the SOF and that horizontal patterns in larval assemblages were only weakly related to oceanographic features (i.e., mesoscale eddies, ME, and the Florida Current). However, otolith analysis revealed that residence in MEs enhanced larval growth for four out of the five reef fish species examined, and this increased growth was consistent across three sampling periods and two years. These results indicate that MEs provide enhanced feeding environments for larval reef fishes. Additional otolith analysis of cohorts of two reef fishes tracked from the pelagic environment to the reef (i.e., settlement-stage), demonstrated that for one species (Cryptotomus roseus) slow-growing larvae were selectively removed from the population just prior to settlement. In this same species, slow-growing larvae from offshore waters did not contribute to the surviving population of settlement-stage larvae, suggesting that for at least some species and settlement events, upstream Caribbean fish populations are not well-connected to populations in the SOF. Finally, several lines of evidence, including temporal changes in larval assemblages and patterns of larval abundance and age across water masses, are consistent with the existence of nearshore retention of locally-spawned larvae in the SOF and, thus, the potential for self-recruitment in reef fish populations of the Florida Keys.

Population Connectivity in a Dynamic Coastal System

Population Connectivity in a Dynamic Coastal System PDF Author: Kathryn Shulzitski
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

Get Book Here

Book Description
Population connectivity (i.e., the exchange of individuals among geographically distinct subpopulations) is an issue of particular relevance in the marine environment, as the majority of benthic marine organisms have complex life cycles and dispersal events occurring in the early life stages are nearly impossible to track. As the magnitude and direction of larval dispersal are shaped ultimately by larval distributions, growth, mortality, and transport to adult habitat, this dissertation examined these processes for larval reef fishes in the Straits of Florida (SOF) to contribute to the understanding of patterns of population connectivity along a continental coastline. An analysis of spatially and temporally extensive ichthyoplankton collections and associated environmental data demonstrated that environmental variation through the vertical water column was most important in structuring larval assemblages in the SOF and that horizontal patterns in larval assemblages were only weakly related to oceanographic features (i.e., mesoscale eddies, ME, and the Florida Current). However, otolith analysis revealed that residence in MEs enhanced larval growth for four out of the five reef fish species examined, and this increased growth was consistent across three sampling periods and two years. These results indicate that MEs provide enhanced feeding environments for larval reef fishes. Additional otolith analysis of cohorts of two reef fishes tracked from the pelagic environment to the reef (i.e., settlement-stage), demonstrated that for one species (Cryptotomus roseus) slow-growing larvae were selectively removed from the population just prior to settlement. In this same species, slow-growing larvae from offshore waters did not contribute to the surviving population of settlement-stage larvae, suggesting that for at least some species and settlement events, upstream Caribbean fish populations are not well-connected to populations in the SOF. Finally, several lines of evidence, including temporal changes in larval assemblages and patterns of larval abundance and age across water masses, are consistent with the existence of nearshore retention of locally-spawned larvae in the SOF and, thus, the potential for self-recruitment in reef fish populations of the Florida Keys.

Laboratory- and Field-based Approaches for Evaluating Connectivity in a Dynamic Coastal Environment

Laboratory- and Field-based Approaches for Evaluating Connectivity in a Dynamic Coastal Environment PDF Author: Ryan Edward Stanley Stanley
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

Get Book Here

Book Description
Connectivity of marine populations, defined as the magnitude of discrete population units interconnected through dispersal, has important implications for the ecology and management of commercially harvested species. Sustainable management requires consideration of the spatial-temporal structure of exploited populations. Connectivity measurement requires accuracy in providing relevant spatial information. My thesis bridges laboratory and field based approaches to provide integrated and reliable estimates of connectivity. Using controlled laboratory experiments, I determined that the interaction of temperature and salinity influenced composition of juvenile Atlantic cod otoliths, thus questioning whether otoliths can reconstruct environmental history when environmental variables are studied in isolation. Utilizing a field survey, I demonstrated that otolith chemistry differences could discriminate among juvenile cod from adjacent bays and coasts of origin. Assignment of residuals derived from laboratory model predictions and field observations improved discrimination, illustrating underlying fine-scale biocomplexity in otolith chemistry, and potential influence of environment on assignment at small spatial scales. These results demonstrate the utility of otolith chemistry as a tool to evaluate contributions of sub-populations to Atlantic cod stocks, and, highlight limitations imposed by environmental variation at scales less than 100 km. In a second series of experiments that focused on larval American lobster, I demonstrated that swimming ability and vertical position in the water column varied significantly among ontogenetic stages and did not did not increase linearly with development. Through a series of common garden experiments, I demonstrated biogeographic variability in swimming ability and the influence of environment. Variability in swimming apparently reflects ambient conditions of the pelagic habitat of origin. Utilizing a biophysical model incorporating observed swimming behaviours, I demonstrated that larval behaviour significantly influenced the magnitude, direction, and duration of dispersal, and that this influence varied both spatially and temporally. These results provide a biological-behavioural context to parameterize bio-physical models and an approach to improve accuracy of dispersal models and advance understanding of connectivity. By improving aspects of design and testing assumptions, these analyses provide a template for future use of otolith chemistry and biophysical modelling, punctuating the need for calibration and validation of the assumptions of each strategy when applied to dynamic field conditions.

Assessing Connectivity in Coastal Systems as a Tool for Fish Management and Conservation

Assessing Connectivity in Coastal Systems as a Tool for Fish Management and Conservation PDF Author: Patrick Neil Bowskill Reis dos Santos
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Coastal ecology
Languages : en
Pages : 173

Get Book Here

Book Description
Connectivity is a critical component of marine fish populations as it drives population replenishment, determines colonization patterns and populations' resilience to harvest. Knowledge of individual movement patterns is pivotal to ascertain population dynamics and underpins sustainable management. Many marine fish species occupy spatially segregated habitats throughout their life history. Estuarine nursery function and the ecological link between estuaries and the coastal environment were reviewed with emphasis on quantifying estuarine contributions and assessing fish movement to coastal adult populations. The chemical composition of otoliths is one of the most promising natural tags to quantify fish movement, particularly for early life stages. Yet, many uncertainties remain regarding the factors affecting elemental incorporation in otoliths. Temperature, salinity and water composition variations were examined to evaluate their interactive effects on Dicentrarchus labrax otolith chemistry, which is a vital first step in reconstructing environmental histories and intra-estuarine movement patterns. The combined use of otolith chemistry and muscle stable isotopes provided corroborative and complementary information, at different spatio-temporal scales, of intraestuarine habitat use and outlined limited movement between segregated estuarine nursery areas. Otolith elemental signatures of juvenile Platichthys flesus and D. labrax collected in estuarine nurseries along the Portuguese coast were year specific; though variation among seasons did not hinder spatial discrimination. Juveniles were accurately assigned to their estuaries of origin. These elemental signatures constituted the baseline for assessments of connectivity between juvenile and adult populations. The quantification of the relative contributions of estuaries to coastal populations of P. flesus and D. labrax in two years enabled the identification of the estuarine systems which contributed most to the replenishment of coastal populations. Overall, results contributed to prioritization of the conservation of ecologically important habitats and to the development of integrated management strategies for these commercially important species.

Ecosystem-Based Management for the Oceans

Ecosystem-Based Management for the Oceans PDF Author: Karen McLeod
Publisher: Island Press
ISBN: 1610911318
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 393

Get Book Here

Book Description
Conventional management approaches cannot meet the challenges faced by ocean and coastal ecosystems today. Consequently, national and international bodies have called for a shift toward more comprehensive ecosystem-based marine management. Synthesizing a vast amount of current knowledge, Ecosystem-Based Management for the Oceans is a comprehensive guide to utilizing this promising new approach. At its core, ecosystem-based management (EBM) is about acknowledging connections. Instead of focusing on the impacts of single activities on the delivery of individual ecosystem services, EBM focuses on the array of services that we receive from marine systems, the interactive and cumulative effects of multiple human activities on these coupled ecological and social systems, and the importance of working towards common goals across sectors. Ecosystem-Based Management for the Oceans provides a conceptual framework for students and professionals who want to understand and utilize this powerful approach. And it employs case studies that draw on the experiences of EBM practitioners to demonstrate how EBM principles can be applied to real-world problems. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to social and ecological resilience —the extent to which a system can maintain its structure, function, and identity in the face of disturbance. Utilizing the resilience framework, professionals can better predict how systems will respond to a variety of disturbances, as well as to a range of management alternatives. Ecosystem-Based Management for the Oceans presents the latest science of resilience, while it provides tools for the design and implementation of responsive EBM solutions.

The Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate

The Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate PDF Author: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
ISBN: 9781009157971
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 755

Get Book Here

Book Description
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the leading international body for assessing the science related to climate change. It provides policymakers with regular assessments of the scientific basis of human-induced climate change, its impacts and future risks, and options for adaptation and mitigation. This IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate is the most comprehensive and up-to-date assessment of the observed and projected changes to the ocean and cryosphere and their associated impacts and risks, with a focus on resilience, risk management response options, and adaptation measures, considering both their potential and limitations. It brings together knowledge on physical and biogeochemical changes, the interplay with ecosystem changes, and the implications for human communities. It serves policymakers, decision makers, stakeholders, and all interested parties with unbiased, up-to-date, policy-relevant information. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.

Tomorrow's Coasts: Complex and Impermanent

Tomorrow's Coasts: Complex and Impermanent PDF Author: Lynn Donelson Wright
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 331975453X
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 390

Get Book Here

Book Description
This book is intended as a conceptual roadmap to show how some of the numerous pieces of complex coastal systems intersect and might interact under changing future environmental regimes. It is addressed to a non-technical but environmentally literate audience that includes the lay public, policy makers, planners, engineers and academics interested in the causes and consequences of global changes as they are likely to affect coastal systems. The book also outlines some strategies for anticipating and responding to the challenges that lie ahead. The purpose is not to offer a technical treatise on how to build better numerical models or to provide the cognoscenti with new scientific details or theories. Quite on the contrary the authors aim to provide a holistic, easy-accessible overview of coastal systems and therefore use a writing style that is non-technical, nonmathematical and non-jargonized throughout. Wherever scientific terms are required to avoid ambiguity, a clear and simple definition is presented and those definitions are repeated in the glossary. The authors aim to communicate with all who care about the future of coastal environments. In Part 1, they present some underlying general “big picture” concepts that are applicable to coastal processes and coastal change worldwide. Part 2 reviews some of the more important physical, ecological and societal causes and outcomes of coastal change. A selection of case studies of some prominent and highly vulnerable coastal regions is presented in Part 3. Some strategies for facilitating and supporting collaboration among the global scientific community to enhance future coastal resilience are outlined in Part 4.

Trophic Organization in Coastal Systems

Trophic Organization in Coastal Systems PDF Author: Robert J. Livingston
Publisher: CRC Press
ISBN: 1420040855
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 418

Get Book Here

Book Description
Derived from an unprecedented research effort covering over 70 field years of field data in a series of studies, Trophic Organization in Coastal Systems represents an alternative approach to coastal research that has been successfully applied to coastal resource management issues. This unique book is based upon a sequence of long-term, interdiscipl

Connectivity, Fecundity, and Larval Abundance Along an Upwelling Coast

Connectivity, Fecundity, and Larval Abundance Along an Upwelling Coast PDF Author: Sarah Olverson Hameed
Publisher:
ISBN: 9781369202939
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

Get Book Here

Book Description
A better understanding of the processes that regulate marine metapopulations is needed for effective conservation management planning. Ecosystem level protections in the form of marine protected areas (MPAs) may be the most effective strategy to minimize the risk of population collapse, community disruption, and biodiversity loss because intact communities appear to be more resilient to natural and anthropogenic disturbances. The effectiveness of MPAs as a tool for conserving marine populations, however, hinges on understanding the processes that regulate marine populations. This dissertation focuses on three connected processes that play large roles in regulating marine metapopulations - population connectivity, fecundity, and larval distribution. I investigate these processes in decapod populations along an open coast characterized by strong seasonal upwelling that drives high primary production and rich marine biodiversity and supports a plethora of fisheries. In Chapter 1, I used extensive field measurements of fecundity, population size, and settlement and a Bayesian modeling approach to determine demographic connectivity among invertebrate populations along the California coastline. This study provides the first evidence of high local retention and limited connectivity among populations spanning 700 km along an open coast in an upwelling system with larvae that spend approximately six weeks in the plankton. The Bayesian modeling approach employed to estimate larval dispersal revealed the importance of employing demographic data in these estimates. The approach provides a tractable framework for addressing these questions for species occurring in discrete coastal populations. Latitudinal variation in upwelling affecting larval supply via advection offshore is widely considered to regulate populations and communities in upwelling regimes. In Chapter 2, I investigated an alternative explanation for differences in recruitment along the west coast of the U.S. - whether variation in fecundity could explain differences in recruitment across the two upwelling regimes that occur between Washington and California. Fecundity varied between upwelling regions, likely due to previously documented differences in primary productivity, and locally, depending on habitat type and surfzone hydrodynamics, both of which likely affect access to food. Larval distributions provide us with the clues to determine larval transport and survival. In Chapter 3, I determined the degree to which decapod larval abundance and spatial distribution are affected by local, regional, and basin-scale oceanographic conditions interannually. This investigation revealed that environmental variability, predominantly related to upwelling and primary production, explained 5% - 20% of the variability in the larval distributions, and the spatial distributions found in previous temporally constrained studies remained generally consistent across 8 years. The findings indicate that larval behaviors and demographic variables likely play a more important role in larval distributions than physical forcing. Effective spatial conservation management relies on understanding population persistence, which requires knowledge of population connectivity, fecundity, and the drivers of larval abundance through time. Taken together, these investigations into processes that regulate marine populations along a productive upwelling coast advance our fundamental understanding of the ecology and evolution of life in the sea and provide insights to improve management and conservation of its resources and ecosystems.

Coastal Systems

Coastal Systems PDF Author: Simon Haslett
Publisher: Routledge
ISBN: 1134069332
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 349

Get Book Here

Book Description
The coast represents the crossroads between the oceans, land and atmosphere, and all three contribute to the physical and ecological evolution of coastlines. Coasts are dynamic systems, with identifiable inputs and outputs of energy and material. Changes to input force coasts to respond, often in dramatic ways as attested by the impacts of the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, the landfall of Hurricane Katrina along the Gulf Coast of the USA in 2005, and the steady rise of global warming driven sea-level. More than half the world’s human population lives at the coast, and here people often come into conflict with natural coastal processes. Research continues to unravel the relationship between coastal processes and society, so that we may better appreciate, understand, manage and live safely within this unique global environment. Coastal Systems offers a concise introduction to the processes, landforms, ecosystems and management of this important global environment. New to the second edition is a greater emphasis on the role of high-energy events, such as storms and tsunamis, which have manifested themselves with catastrophic effects in recent years. There is also a new concluding chapter, and updated guides to the ever-growing coastal literature. Each chapter is illustrated and furnished with topical case studies from around the world. Introductory chapters establish the importance of coasts, and explain how they are studied within a systems framework. Subsequent chapters explore the role of waves, tides, rivers and sea-level change in coastal evolution. Students will benefit from summary points, themed boxes, engaging discussion questions and new graded annotated guides to further reading at the end of each chapter. Additionally, a comprehensive glossary of technical terms and an extensive bibliography are provided. The book is highly illustrated with diagrams and original plates. The comprehensive balance of illustrations and academic thought provides a well balanced view between the role of coastal catastrophes and gradual processes, also examining the impact humans and society have and continue to have on the coastal environment.

Globalization and System Capabilities

Globalization and System Capabilities PDF Author: Rana Eijaz Ahmad
Publisher: Ledizioni
ISBN:
Category : Political Science
Languages : en
Pages : 169

Get Book Here

Book Description
Welcome to the world of artificial intelligence, where digitalization has transformed the globe worldwide. This book investigates the ‘system capabilities’ and its utilization through the lens of leadership as per its idiosyncrasy. The thesis of this book emphasizes that it is not the form of government but the efficient utilization of the system capabilities by the leadership that make the difference in the socio-political and economic development of any country in the world. It provides a dynamic landscape of globalization, discovering how two economic dynamos—China and India—navigate and shape the complicated web of global relations in the contemporary era.As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, understanding the roles of major players in shaping global systems is crucial. China and India, with their rich histories, diverse cultures, and rapidly evolving economies, stand as pivotal actors in the unfolding narrative of our shared global future.