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Projeto de investigação
Portuguese Coastal Monitoring Network
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Publicações
Food web attributes to assess spatial–temporal dynamics in estuarine benthic ecosystem
Publication . Vieira, Soraia; Maurer, Anne France; Barrocas Dias, Cristina; Neves, Joana; Martins, Marta; Lobo-Arteaga, Jorge; Adão, Helena; Sroczyńska, Kasia; MARE - Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente; Elsevier
Threatened benthic ecosystems need urgent tools for effective bioassessment and relevant management. EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) obligates member states to achieve GES (Good Environmental Status) for 11 descriptors of environmental state (MSFD; 2008/56/EC). From all of the descriptors, D4 that focuses on Food Webs is the most functional-oriented indicator, but also the most challenging to implement due to our limited knowledge on benthic interactions. Particularly, it is still unclear how spatially and temporally regulated abiotic variables determine the entire benthic food webs, and which benthic food web attributes best respond to these spatially and temporally derived environmental variations. To fill this gap, we measured the natural isotopic ratios (δ13C and δ15N) of macrobenthic organisms and their food sources and build twelve food web topologies across three distinct sites (Navigator, Gambia, Tróia) in summer and winter during two consecutive years. To assess these food web topologies, we applied isotopic metrics, further integrated with univariate and multivariate analysis to find food web-based indicators that best respond to these spatial and temporal variability. We found clear spatial patterns associated to an increase in primary production and quantity and quality of organic matter (OM). Sites with higher organic load and less quality OM (Navigator and Gambia) had simpler food webs, likely associated to high abundance of opportunistic meiobenthic species. Site located inside protected area (Tróia) with high quality OM had the most complex food web characterized by high diversity of specialist consumers that used more efficiently available resources. Similarity metrics were valuable complementary tool that helped to further disentangle the causes of spatial variability, in this case distinguishing between two food webs (Navigator and Gambia) that had similar structures but different resource utilization. The temporal patterns were not so evident than the spatial patterns, although significant differences were reported between sampling occasions for the same metrics (maximum trophic position and the percentage of carnivores and omnivores, p < 0.05). The most complex Tróiás food web demonstrated greater responsiveness in capturing temporal differences in resource use, suggesting that more complex food webs are better equipped to reflect temporal variability. The integration of isotopic metrics complemented with multivariate and univariate analyses proved to be an important tool for the analysis of different aspects of the benthic food web complexity in a spatial–temporal context providing a promising approach to assess the functional integrity of the estuarine ecosystems, especially in the context of the descriptor 4 within MSFD.
Participatory action research supporting adaptive governance of Manila clam fisheries
Publication . Correia, Maria João; Chainho, Paula; Goulding, Thomas; Carvalho, Frederico; Cabral, Sara; Ferreira, Filipa Gomes; Vasconcelos, Lia; MARE - Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente; Elsevier
This paper reports the outcomes of the engagement between researchers, harvesters and other relevant stakeholders using participatory approaches for the purpose of the sustainable management of Manila clam fisheries in Portugal. Collaborative meetings were held between 2018 and 2023 in several coastal systems, framed by participatory action research principles. The goal was to identify problems, collect and analyse biologic and social information, and to discuss and co-construct potential solutions for the management of Manila clam fisheries, addressing the social, economic, biological and ecological dimensions. Throughout the process, a deeper understanding of the challenges facing Manila clam management was acquired, which demonstrated that success varies from system to system and “one size fits all” approach is not viable. Stakeholder meetings resulted in a functional network linking local and national actors. This collaboration influenced national and local regulatory measures, though formal mechanisms for sustaining the network were not achieved. The establishment of local organisations enabled consensus at the local level that shaped governance outcomes; regions with organized associations (Ria de Aveiro and Óbidos lagoon), achieved more effective management solutions compared to less cohesive communities (Tagus and Sado estuary). Participant perception assessments demonstrated that although they have an overall positive attitude towards the collaborative process, they are not certain about its potential to improve management. The Manila clam illegal fishing is perceived as a critical issue that undermines management solutions, that needs dedicated efforts and higher political support. This study highlights the importance of trust, social cohesion, and government support in building effective resource management systems.
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Entidade financiadora
Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia
Programa de financiamento
9444 - RNIIIE
Número da atribuição
PINFRA/22128/2016