Article
Environmental Sciences
Alexandra Kinnby, Gunilla B. Toth, Henrik Pavia
Summary: Climate change affects the growth and biochemical composition of seaweeds, particularly reducing their chemical defense and increasing susceptibility to grazers under conditions of high temperature, low salinity, and high pCO2.
FRONTIERS IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
B. Williams, P. T. W. Chan, I. T. Westfield, D. B. Rasher, J. Ries
Summary: The skeletal density of high-latitude species of crustose coralline algae (CCA) significantly declined under future pCO2 conditions, potentially increasing their vulnerability to disturbance and impairing their ability to produce critical habitat in high-latitude systems.
GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH LETTERS
(2021)
Article
Fisheries
Caitlin O. Blain, Sara Kulins, Craig A. Radford, Mary A. Sewell, Nick T. Shears
Summary: The study found a network of vents embedded in complex topography at Whakaari-White Island, New Zealand, with spatially variable levels of pH and pCO2. The distribution of benthic communities was primarily influenced by substratum type and sea urchin densities, rather than by pH. In dynamic environments like this, the use of control-impact designs may oversimplify and potentially overestimate the future impacts of ocean acidification.
ICES JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Limnology
Stephen R. Carpenter, Michael L. Pace, Grace M. Wilkinson
Summary: The concentration of light-absorbing dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in lakes can affect their resilience to nutrient enrichment. Lakes with higher DOC concentration are more resilient to enrichment. However, there is overlap in the resilience measures for lakes when using stochastic indicators.
LIMNOLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY LETTERS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Eun Ju Kang, A-Reum Han, Ju-Hyoung Kim, Il-Nam Kim, Sukyeon Lee, Jun-Oh Min, Bo-Ra Nam, Young-Joon Choi, Matthew S. Edwards, Guillermo Diaz-Pulido, Changsin Kim
Summary: The study found that under ocean acidification conditions, Ulva ohnoi algae prefer CO2 and NH4+ as carbon and nitrogen sources, leading to an increase in N content and better performance in photosynthesis and growth, thus potentially increasing their bloom potential; however, elevated temperatures decrease photosynthesis and growth, reducing their bloom potential.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Shama E. Haque
Summary: Emerging changes in water availability in Florida are the combined result of human perturbations, natural variability, and climate change. The state is vulnerable to sea level rise, saltwater intrusion, eutrophication, sedimentation, and ocean acidification. The review paper highlights the influences of changing climate on groundwater aquifers, eutrophication, the Everglades, runoff and sedimentation, and coastal water acidification. The findings indicate significant environmental impacts and the need for adaptation to climate change effects in Florida.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Juan Yu, Ji-Yuan Tian, Guang Gao, Rui Xu, Jing-Guang Lai, Gui-Peng Yang
Summary: The effects of ocean acidification and solar radiation on the growth and production of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) in coccolithophores are investigated in this study. It is found that high CO2 concentration decreases cell concentration and DMSP concentration, while UV radiation increases cell concentration and decreases DMSP concentration.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Louis M. Hennequin, Sungwhan Kim, Eric A. Monroe, Tyler Phillips Eckles, Nataly Beck, Wittney D. Mays, Paul S. Fennell, Jason P. Hallett, Anthe George, Ryan W. Davis
Summary: The deployment of an attached periphytic algae flow-way at the Alamo River Wetlands of the Salton Sea in California has shown promising results in terms of biomass production and nutrient removal. The length of the flow-way, along with variations in nutrient utilization efficiency, were found to influence biomass productivity and nutrient removal rates. Temperature and solar irradiation were identified as key environmental factors for the system. Despite fluctuations in source water concentrations, the attached periphytic algae biomass demonstrated stable nutrient and metal uptake. Copper and Selenium were found to exceed toxicity guidelines in the surrounding water, indicating the potential role of attached algae cultivation in remediating contaminants.
ALGAL RESEARCH-BIOMASS BIOFUELS AND BIOPRODUCTS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Michael Lintner, Bianca Lintner, Michael Schagerl, Wolfgang Wanek, Petra Heinz
Summary: We studied the metabolic activity of Heterostegina depressa under different light conditions. The photosynthetic performance and isotope uptake of the specimens were measured. Light supply significantly affected the photosynthetic performance, while the photosymbionts and holobionts could survive and be reactivated after prolonged darkness. The assimilation of C-13-carbonate and N-15-nitrate is mainly controlled by the photosymbionts, while N-15-ammonium and C-13-glucose utilization is regulated by both the symbiont and the host cells.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Glen L. Wheeler, Daniela Sturm, Gerald Langer
Summary: Coccolithophores are abundant calcifying organisms in modern oceans and are important for marine biogeochemistry and the global carbon cycle. Emiliania huxleyi, also known as Gephyrocapsa huxleyi, is the primary model organism for coccolithophore research and has contributed to significant advancements in the field. Other species are also being explored as models for specific aspects of coccolithophore biology.
JOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Joachim Rozemeijer, Ruurd Noordhuis, Kevin Ouwerkerk, Miguel Dionisio Pires, Anouk Blauw, Arno Hooijboer, Geert Jan van Oldenborgh
Summary: This study explored the effects of climatic variability on water quality in various water systems in the Netherlands, showing that water quality is impacted by global climate change, changes in Atlantic ocean circulation patterns, continental precipitation, river discharge fluctuations, and local climatic fluctuations. The fluctuations induced by climatic variability give a preview for the potential effects of climate change on water quality.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Review
Biodiversity Conservation
Christopher E. Cornwall, Ben P. Harvey, Steeve Comeau, Daniel L. Cornwall, Jason M. Hall-Spencer, Viviana Pena, Shigeki Wada, Lucia Porzio
Summary: The majority of coralline algae experienced negative impacts like reduced abundance, calcification rates, and pH declines in response to ocean acidification (OA) in laboratory experiments or at naturally elevated CO2 sites. However, there were inconsistent physiological responses of coralline algae to simulated OA, with calcification/growth being the most frequently measured parameters.
GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Michiyo Yamamoto-Kawai, Soichiro Ito, Haruko Kurihara, Jota Kanda
Summary: The study investigated seasonal and interannual variabilities in the partial pressure of CO2 (pCO(2)), pH, and calcium carbonate saturation state (omega) in Tokyo Bay, Japan, finding that these parameters vary significantly in surface and bottom waters due to various factors such as photosynthesis, respiration, warming/cooling, and freshwater input. Anoxic conditions in the bottom waters caused calcium carbonate undersaturation, suggesting that de-eutrophication can help slow down ocean acidification in Tokyo Bay.
FRONTIERS IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yuqiu Wei, Dongsheng Ding, Ting Gu, Yong Xu, Xuemei Sun, Keming Qu, Jun Sun, Zhengguo Cui
Summary: Data on the independent or combined effects of ocean acidification and warming on coastal eutrophication and organic pollution are limited. Acidification favors eutrophication and organic pollution, while warming inhibits these two variables. However, the interaction between acidification and warming in the future may exacerbate organic pollution but mitigate eutrophication.
MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN
(2023)
Article
Marine & Freshwater Biology
Satheeswaran Thangaraj, Haijiao Liu, Il-Nam Kim, Jun Sun
Summary: This study examines the physiological adjustments and resource allocation changes in the dinoflagellate Alexandrium minutum under future ocean conditions of warming and acidification. The findings suggest that the species increases its carbon and phosphate quotas during acclimation, with the changes largely influenced by phosphate-based molecules.
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Jonathan Y. S. Leung, Ivan Nagelkerken, Jennifer C. A. Pistevos, Zonghan Xie, Sam Zhang, Sean D. Connell
Summary: Ocean acidification and warming have an impact on the mechanical properties of shark teeth, but when combined together, the durability of teeth increases. The teeth are mainly made of fluorapatite, with increased fluoride content under acidified seawater, which may enhance the durability of the teeth.
GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Ecology
Ben P. Harvey, Katie E. Marshall, Christopher D. G. Harley, Bayden D. Russell
Summary: Marine heatwaves, prolonged periods of warm seawater, can reshape marine communities and ecosystems. Researchers propose a functional trait approach to understand which species and communities are most vulnerable to these events and predict how species distribution and community composition may shift over time. This approach aims to unify extreme events and long-term environmental trends as drivers of ecological change, enhancing the ability to make informed management decisions.
TRENDS IN ECOLOGY & EVOLUTION
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Marine
Yichun Xie, Elaine Y. Y. Huang, Wenyan Nong, Sean T. S. Law, Yifei Yu, Khan Cheung, Yiqian Li, Cheuk Fung Wong, Ho Yin Yip, Patrick W. S. Joyce, King Ming Chan, Ka Hou Chu, Bayden D. Russell, Laura J. Falkenberg, Jerome H. L. Hui
Summary: The Hong Kong oyster is a native species with scientific, ecological, cultural and nutritional importance. However, limited information about its genetics, stress adaptation mechanisms, and gut microbiota has restricted the sustainable production and use of oyster resources. This study conducted population structure analysis, transcriptome analysis, and microbiota profiling to reveal the molecular basis for the oyster's adaptation to environmental conditions.
JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Sharon S. W. Chan, Ho Tin Wong, Marine Thomas, Heidi K. Alleway, Boze Hancock, Bayden D. Russell
Summary: This study evaluated the biodiversity of an abandoned benthic oyster farm and found that it has significant ecological potential, supporting a greater diversity and biomass of benthic flora and fauna.
FRONTIERS IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Jay J. Minuti, Maria Byrne, Hamish Campbell, Deevesh A. Hemraj, Bayden D. Russell
Summary: Rising ocean temperatures and extreme weather events can negatively impact marine life. However, research shows that offspring of sea urchins that have undergone heat conditioning exhibit faster growth and higher survival rates.
GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Marine & Freshwater Biology
Rhyn W. Y. Cheung-Wong, James K. Dytnerski, Rinaldi Gotama, Deevesh A. Hemraj, Bayden D. Russell
Summary: This study surveyed the seasonal biomass and cover of subtidal macroalgal and sessile invertebrate communities in Hong Kong. The results showed that shallow assemblages were more influenced by environmental factors and exhibited seasonal patterns, while deeper communities had less biomass but were more stable across seasons. Oysters, barnacles, and live corals dominated the sessile invertebrate communities at both depths. This study establishes a baseline for assessing future changes in algal productivity and community composition.
ESTUARINE COASTAL AND SHELF SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Dominic McAfee, Brittany R. Williams, Lachlan McLeod, Andreas Reuter, Zak Wheaton, Sean D. Connell
Summary: Marine soundscapes play a crucial role in providing navigational cues for larvae searching for suitable habitats. A study conducted in Australia demonstrates that enriching marine soundscapes using speaker technology can significantly boost oyster recruitment and habitat formation. The use of speakers can influence the early recruitment of oysters, resulting in a larger number of large oysters that form three-dimensional habitats.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Patrick W. S. Joyce, Laura J. Falkenberg
Summary: This study examined microplastic abundance in three co-existing mussel species in four sites in Hong Kong, with the highest microplastic abundance found in Perna viridis. The study also found that the majority of observed microplastics were red in color, and the proportion of microplastic colors varied among species and sites. These findings highlight the need for further research on the potential impacts of microplastic ingestion on ecologically important bivalve species.
REGIONAL STUDIES IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Laura J. Falkenberg, Patrick W. S. Joyce
Summary: Internationalisation of curriculum enhances graduate awareness of global issues and facilitates sustainable development. This study investigates the application of internationalisation at home through the use of contemporary media in the Global Change Biology course at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. The results show a positive response from students, who reported increased knowledge confidence about climate change and a willingness to adapt sustainably.
Article
Ecology
Deevesh Ashley Hemraj, Laura J. Falkenberg, Khan Cheung, Lauren Man, Alessia Carini, Bayden D. Russell
Summary: Reef building oysters provide ecological benefits and ecosystem services, but the impact of changing environmental conditions on their microbial communities and ecological role is unclear. In this study, oysters were exposed to acidification and hypoxia, resulting in physiological stress, changes in microbial community structure, and potential nutrient cycling loss. These findings suggest that the oyster holobiont may experience negative effects under hypoxia and multi-stressor conditions.
FRONTIERS IN ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION
(2023)
Article
Education & Educational Research
Polly Y. Y. Chik, Jessica S. C. Leung, Susan M. Bridges, Gray A. Williams, Bayden D. Russell, Christelle A. Not
Summary: Affective engagement is crucial for promoting pro-environmental behaviors in environmental education. This case study examined the affective engagement of secondary school students during an ecology field trip, using POV camera glasses and student reflections. The findings revealed that students' interest and curiosity in nature and their desire to protect nature varied. There was a complex relationship between interest in nature, motivation to learn, environmental consciousness, and the ability to take action. Future research should explore why students feel the way they do and how affective learning outcomes are achieved in outdoor settings.
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Brittany R. Williams, Dominic McAfee, Sean D. Connell
Summary: This study combines ecological knowledge and novel acoustic technology to enhance oyster recruitment in reef restoration. By broadcasting healthy reef soundscapes and introducing artificial kelp, the combination of acoustic enrichment and artificial kelp increases oyster recruitment to both the topside and underside of the substrate. These findings provide insight into the potential value of combining multiple techniques to kick-start the recovery of lost oyster reefs.
RESTORATION ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Alissa V. V. Bass, Laura J. J. Falkenberg
Summary: Tropical seagrasses show different responses to marine heatwaves, with one species exhibiting increased tolerance and the other experiencing changes in epiphyte cover that may affect the food chain. These findings are crucial for the conservation of marine ecosystems and species.
ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION
(2023)
Article
Ecology
John Terenzini, Yiqian Li, Laura J. Falkenberg
Summary: Jellyfish are important organisms in marine ecosystems, and their occurrence and diversity in Hong Kong's coastal waters have been underestimated. The Hong Kong Jellyfish Project uses citizen science to gather observations of jellyfish, resulting in the discovery of 19 species, including two previously undocumented ones. The observations also reveal a seasonal trend and a broad geographical distribution of jellyfish in Hong Kong's waters.
REGIONAL STUDIES IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
John Terenzini, Sheldon Rey Boco, Laura J. Falkenberg
Summary: The Hong Kong Jellyfish Project utilizes photos and videos from citizen scientists to document jellyfish occurrences in the region. This research identified two previously unrecorded box jellyfish species, Malo filipina (Bentlage & Lewis, 2012) and an unidentified species of Morbakka sp. Gershwin, 2008, in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China. Understanding the current distribution of these species is important due to their potential impacts on human activities and local ecosystems.