Article
Environmental Sciences
Davide Spatafora, Michele Gristina, Federico Quattrocchi, Cataldo Pierri, Tamara Lazic, Jorge Palma
Summary: In the face of future ocean warming and habitat fragmentation, coastal fishes, including seahorses, need to adjust their physiological and behavioral traits. This study investigated the behavior of two sympatric seahorse species and found that seahorses have behavioral tolerance to temperature variation. However, increased density of one species and habitat availability can affect the behavior of the other species, potentially impacting their distribution in shallow habitats.
FRONTIERS IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Anushka Vidurangi Samaraweera, M. D. Neranjan Tharuka, Thanthrige Thiunuwan Priyathilaka, Hyerim Yang, Sukkyoung Lee, Jehee Lee
Summary: HaPrx3, a ubiquitous antioxidant protein, plays a significant role in oxidative stress and immune responses against pathogenic infections in big-belly seahorses, offering cell survival ability and DNA protection.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Anna Karolina Martins Borges, Romulo Romeu Nobrega Alves, Tacyana Pereira Ribeiro Oliveira
Summary: To design seahorse conservation strategies, we conducted a study on the distribution and habitat preferences of longsnout seahorses in a mangrove estuary in Brazil. The study found that dense mangrove cover and shallow depths were predictors of seahorse sightings and higher densities. Seahorses also exhibited a preference for mangrove structures as holdfasts. Therefore, protecting these ecosystems is crucial for the conservation and management of H. reidi in estuaries.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Diego Luzzatto, Victor Cussac
Summary: This study aimed to develop a non-invasive and efficient method for measuring and identifying individual seahorses in their natural habitat. Through capturing and photographing seahorses to obtain measurements and individual recognition, the study identified growth patterns and behaviors related to seahorse sizes.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Fisheries
Yanan Tian, Fang Wang, Xiaolei Su, Lele Zhang, Zhenhao Ma, Longkun Gao, Hansheng Yan, Yuanyuan Xue, Chunhui Lv, Xu Zhang, Mingzhu Li, Yuping Hou, Kai Wang
Summary: This study evaluated the probiotic effects of Enterococcus faecium supplementation on the growth, development, intestinal health, and immunity of big-belly seahorses during the diet conversion period. The concentration and frequency of E. faecium supplementation were found to significantly affect the growth performance of seahorses. Seahorses supplemented with high concentration of E. faecium showed improved growth performance and increased expression of intestinal immune-related genes. The remodeling of intestinal micro-biota and their functions also contributed to a healthier intestinal environment and increased resistance against pathogenic challenge.
AQUACULTURE REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Fisheries
Natalie Villar Freret-Meurer, Amanda do Carmo Vaccani, Gabriela dos Santos Cabiro
Summary: Intersex conditions were found in wild populations of gonochoristic fish, with seahorses in Brazil showing possible feminization and a case of brood pouch reduction after reproductive stimuli. The female seahorses exhibited two types of morphological anomalies, with consistent proportion of affected individuals in the study population unrelated to sex ratio. The study suggests changes in the sexual profile of individuals.
JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Developmental Biology
J. S. Dudley, P. Hannaford, S. N. Dowland, L. A. Lindsay, M. B. Thompson, C. R. Murphy, J. U. Van Dyke, C. M. Whittington
Summary: The study examined structural changes in the seahorse brood pouch during pregnancy, showing dramatic tissue remodeling as pregnancy progresses, including an increase in capillary density and a decrease in diffusion distance. These changes provide evidence of increased surface area and expansion of the vascular bed to facilitate respiratory gas exchange, similar to adaptations seen in viviparous amniotes and elasmobranchs supporting pregnancy in live-bearing animals.
Article
Fisheries
Yasara Kavindi Kodagoda, D. S. Liyanage, W. K. M. Omeka, Gaeun Kim, Jeongeun Kim, Jehee Lee
Summary: In this study, the cystatin C gene from big-belly seahorse was cloned and characterized, and its important role in immune responses was discovered. Recombinant cystatin C showed dose-dependent inhibitory activity against cysteine protease. Overexpressing cystatin C protected cells against virus-induced apoptosis and increased cell viability. These findings indicate the profound role of cystatin C in modulating fish immune responses.
FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Heather D. Mason, Emily Rose, Jessica Elson Gonzalez, Duncan A. O'Brien
Summary: Although the nighttime ecology of organisms remains understudied, nocturnal surveys play a vital role in evaluating fish assemblages and the selective forces affecting them. A study in Eleuthera, Bahamas, found significantly higher densities of seahorses during nocturnal surveys compared to daytime transects. The surveys also revealed differences in sex ratios and reproductive categories between day and night. The detection of spatial and seasonal recruitment, as well as the increase in nocturnal population size, have important implications for the understanding and conservation of this vulnerable species.
ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION
(2023)
Article
Fisheries
Yuqin Su, Xuange Liu, Huadong Yi, Sheng Bi, Xiaoli Chen, Han Lai, Shuang Liu, Zeyu Zeng, Qiuxian Chen, Guifeng Li
Summary: The study investigated the effects of starvation and refeeding on the growth, physiology, and intestine structure of Hippocampus erectus. Starvation led to a decrease in total protein content, changes in enzyme activity, and alterations in intestinal structure, while refeeding helped partially restore these changes. Overall, the study provided valuable insights into the starvation physiology of seahorses and its implications for aquaculture.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Mario D. D. Carneiro, Sergio Garcia-Mesa, Luis A. Sampaio, Miquel Planas
Summary: This study investigated the effects of acidification and different salinity conditions on the growth and fitness of seahorse. The results showed that seahorse juveniles reared in seawater under acidic conditions had better overall performance and fitness compared to those reared in brackish water.
Article
Fisheries
Yasara Kavindi Kodagoda, D. S. Liyanage, W. K. M. Omeka, Hyukjae Kwon, Seong Don Hwang, Jehee Lee
Summary: Cystatins play an important role in various pathophysiological conditions in animals, but their role in the immunity against viral and bacterial infections in fish is still not clear. This study identified and characterized a cystatin B from big-belly seahorse and investigated its role in immune protection against bacteria and viruses.
FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biology
Cataldo Pierri, Tamara Lazic, Michele Gristina, Giuseppe Corriero, Mauro Sinopoli
Summary: The distribution of seahorses in Europe is fragmented and patchy, requiring systematic review and the PRISMA protocol to identify gaps and propose future research priorities. Conservation efforts would benefit from detailed habitat descriptions and the use of standardized classification systems to understand the impacts of anthropogenic activities and habitat changes on these sensitive fish species.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Hyo-Geun Lee, Hyun-Soo Kim, Hyesuck An, Kyunghwa Baek, Jeong Min Lee, Mi-Jin Yim, Seok-Chun Ko, Ji-Yul Kim, Gun-Woo Oh, Jun-Geon Je, Dae-Sung Lee, You-Jin Jeon
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess the potential hypertensive effects of the IGTGIPGIW peptide purified from Hippocampus abdominalis alcalase hydrolysate (HA) for application in the functional food industry. The antihypertensive effects of IGTGIPGIW were studied in vitro using endothelial cells, and its vasorelaxation effect was evaluated using a fluorescent stain. Furthermore, the study also demonstrated the antihypertensive activity of IGTGIPGIW in a rat model in vivo. These findings suggest the suitability of IGTGIPGIW for application in the functional food industry.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Joseph D. DiBattista, Tanika C. Shalders, Sally Reader, Amanda Hay, Kerryn Parkinson, Robert J. Williams, Jemina Stuart-Smith, Mark McGrouther
Summary: This study aimed to re-evaluate the fish diversity in Sydney Harbour and explore its spatial and temporal distribution. The researchers generated an updated checklist based on verified records and newly available citizen science records. The results showed an increase of 15% in the number of fish species, with new species primarily attributed to citizen science programs and the influx of fish preferring warmer waters. Some areas with higher pollution levels also exhibited an overrepresentation of certain fish families.
MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN
(2022)
Article
Ecology
N. A. Knott, J. Williams, D. Harasti, H. A. Malcolm, M. A. Coleman, B. P. Kelaher, M. J. Rees, A. Schultz, A. Jordan
Summary: This study examined the ecological responses to marine reserve networks in three Australian bioregions, showing significant benefits for the commercially and recreationally harvested species while less pronounced effects were observed for other targeted fish species. Non-target or by-catch species generally did not show differences in abundance across different management zones within the bioregional network. These results demonstrate the potential of marine reserves in assessing the ecological effects of fishing and broader environmental management, supporting ecosystem-based management for reef species.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Sofie E. Voerman, Paul E. Gribben, Tim M. Glasby
Summary: This study examined the relationship between the spread of the native macroalga Caulerpa filiformis and different marine habitats. The results showed that algal turf facilitated the recruitment of C. filiformis, while kelp canopies resisted its spread. The study demonstrated the importance of positive and negative species interactions in influencing the recruitment success of a native alga.
FRONTIERS IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Fisheries
David Harasti
Summary: A long-term monitoring programme from 2005 to 2021 revealed that endangered seahorses can live over 7 years in the wild. Using visible implant fluorescent elastomer (VIFE) for individual identification proved beneficial for long-term studies on movement, population abundance and life-history of seahorses.
JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Greg J. West, Tim M. Glasby
Summary: Seagrass habitats provide essential ecosystem services and are indicators of estuarine health, but are facing increasing threats globally. This study in New South Wales, Australia, over a 40-year period found a decline in total seagrass area, mainly attributed to the genus Ruppia. Different seagrass genera showed varying levels of temporal variability, with Posidonia being the least variable. Factors such as estuary type played a role in seagrass composition and change over time.
ESTUARIES AND COASTS
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Ellen Muller, David Harasti, Bert W. Hoeksema
Summary: This study documents three cases of seahorses being caught by octopuses, suggesting that predation on seahorses by octopuses may be more widespread and common than previously thought. These observations were made in Bonaire (Caribbean Netherlands) and New South Wales (Australia).
Article
Environmental Sciences
Michael G. Hughes, Tim M. Glasby, David J. Hanslow, Gregory J. West, Li Wen
Summary: This article introduces a method to predict the distribution of intertidal wetlands and predicts the future distribution under specified sea level scenarios. The method shows high accuracy and can be used to assess the vulnerability of intertidal wetlands to sea level rise and guide planning for wetland migration pathways.
FRONTIERS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Fisheries
Giulia Ferretto, Adriana Verges, Alistair G. B. Poore, Paul E. Gribben, Tim M. Glasby
Summary: Coastal aquaculture, while beneficial for local economies and reducing pressure on wild stocks, can have negative impacts on the marine environment. This study found that trays and longline baskets used in oyster aquaculture methods in New South Wales, Australia caused significant declines in the endangered seagrass species Posidonia australis. These methods reduced light availability, compromised photosynthetic efficiency, and decreased shoot density. In contrast, floating bags did not have any negative effects on seagrass. More research is needed to understand the long-term effects of floating bags and their impacts in shallower water and higher densities.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Daniel S. S. Swadling, Greg J. J. West, Peter T. T. Gibson, Roger J. J. Laird, Tim M. M. Glasby
Summary: This study examined how anthropogenic disturbances affect the habitat fragmentation of seagrass meadows, specifically looking at an endangered seagrass species in estuaries along the coastline of New South Wales, Australia. The results showed that habitat fragmentation was more severe in estuaries near highly populated areas, with boat moorings being the most significant factor. The findings suggest that as human population and estuarine development continue to grow, seagrass meadow fragmentation will become more pervasive.
AQUATIC CONSERVATION-MARINE AND FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Meryl F. Larkin, Tom R. Davis, David Harasti, Kirsten Benkendorff, Stephen D. A. Smith
Summary: This study investigates the attachment of D. australis cuttings to moveable substrates and tests three feeding regimes. The results show a 100% survival rate for the cuttings under all three feeding treatments. The study also finds that the cutting removal process has no significant effect on the donor colonies, suggesting the sustainability of this approach for species recovery.
AQUATIC CONSERVATION-MARINE AND FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Mariana Mayer-Pinto, Ana B. Bugnot, Emma L. Johnston, Jaimie Potts, Laura Airoldi, Tim M. Glasby, Elisabeth M. A. Strain, Peter Scanes, Shinjiro Ushiama, Katherine A. Dafforn
Summary: This study investigates the effects of increasing habitat complexity on biodiversity and ecological functions. The results show that increasing physical and biogenic complexity can enhance species richness but does not necessarily affect productivity. Therefore, when implementing eco-engineering practices, it is important to consider the trade-off between biodiversity and functional targets.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Li Wen, Tim M. Glasby, Michael G. Hughes
Summary: Globally, sea-level rise poses a significant environmental challenge for coastal ecosystems, particularly intertidal wetlands. The future of these wetlands in south-east Australia depends on landward migration due to inadequate surface accretion to keep up with predicted SLR. Regional assessment of lateral accommodation space is essential for pre-emptive planning to conserve coastal ecosystems.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Tim M. Glasby, Peter T. Gibson, Roger Laird, Daniel S. Swadling, Gregory West
Summary: There is increasing evidence that bushfires are becoming more common and severe due to climate warming, particularly in regions like south-eastern Australia. The recent Australian bushfires in 2019/2020 had unprecedented effects on habitats such as peat swamps and estuarine wetlands. The saltmarsh and mangroves in affected estuaries experienced varying levels of damage, with mangroves being more likely to burn when adjacent to burnt wet sclerophyll forest. While saltmarshes showed signs of recovery, the majority of fire-affected mangrove trees appeared to be dead after 24 months. More research is needed to understand the long-term impacts and recovery capacity of estuarine wetlands from bushfires.
ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Giulia Ferretto, Adriana Verges, Alistair G. B. Poore, Tim M. Glasby, Kingsley J. Griffin
Summary: Habitat complexity plays a critical role in shaping biotic assemblages and ecosystem processes. The decline of the late-successional seagrass Posidonia australis in some estuaries of eastern Australia, where it is now classified as an endangered ecological community, has led to reduced erosion and increased fish abundance in fragmented areas. However, areas with lower seagrass density showed higher abundance of epifauna and fish, indicating the importance of meadow characteristics in influencing ecological functions and processes.
Article
Ecology
Giulia Ferretto, Tim M. Glasby, Alistair G. B. Poore, Corey T. Callaghan, Elizabeth A. Sinclair, John Statton, Gary A. Kendrick, Adriana Verges
Summary: Restoration is crucial for damaged ecosystems, and careful selection of donor material can enhance its success and cost-effectiveness. In this study, we identified that P. australis fragments with more shoots and less necrosis had higher survival rates after replanting. Additionally, fragments stored longer in tanks before replanting showed significantly higher survival rates.
RESTORATION ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Laura L. Griffiths, Joel Williams, Christina A. Buelow, Vivitskaia J. Tulloch, Mischa P. Turschwell, Max D. Campbell, David Harasti, Rod M. Connolly, Christopher J. Brown
Summary: The coastal environment is subjected to threats from marine, land, and atmosphere, but the current linear approach to assessing the impact of threats may be misleading due to the nonlinear relationships between threats and species. Using a data-driven approach, this study explored the nonlinear relationships between threats and a temperate reef fish community and quantified the associations among threats and fish abundances. The findings highlight the importance of considering cumulative threats and implementing appropriate management actions to address them.
CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
(2023)