Artículos (Zoología)

URI permanente para esta colecciónhttps://hdl.handle.net/11441/10929

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Genomic Characterization of Piscicolin CM22 Produced by Carnobacterium maltaromaticum CM22 Strain Isolated from Salmon (Salmo salar)
(Springer Nature, 2024-07-03) González-Gragera, Elías; García-López, J. David; Teso-Pérez, Claudia; Jiménez-Hernández, Irene; Peralta Sánchez, Juan Manuel; Martínez-Bueno, Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación (CDTI); Junta de Andalucía
Carnobacterium maltaromaticum is a species of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) that has been isolated from various natural environments. It is well-known for producing a diverse spectrum of bacteriocins with potential biotechnological applications. In the present study, a new psychrotolerant strain of C. maltaromaticum CM22 is reported, isolated from a salmon gut sample and producing a variant of the bacteriocin piscicolin 126 that has been named piscicolin CM22. After identification by 16S rRNA gene, this strain has been genomically characterized by sequencing and assembling its complete genome. Moreover, its bacteriocin was purified and characterized. In vitro tests demonstrated that both the strain and its bacteriocin possess antimicrobial activity against several Gram-positive bacteria of interest in human and animal health, such as Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium perfringens, or Enterococcus faecalis. However, this bacteriocin did not produce any antimicrobial effect on Gram-negative species. The study of its genome showed the genetic structure of the gene cluster that encodes the bacteriocin, showing a high degree of homology to the gene cluster of piscicolin 126 described in other C. maltaromaticum. Although more studies are necessary concerning its functional properties, this new psychrotolerant strain C. maltaromaticum CM22 and its bacteriocin could be considered an interesting candidate with potential application in agri-food industry.
Ecological niche modelling of cold-water corals in the Southern Ocean (N Antarctic), present distribution and future projections due to temperature changes
(Inter-Research, 2019-10) Chaabani, Safa; López González, Pablo José; Casado Amezúa, Pilar; Pehlke, Hendrik; Weber, Lukas; Martínez Baraldés, Irene; Jerosch, Kerstin; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft / German Research Foundation (DFG); Ministerio de Economia, Industria y Competitividad (MINECO). España
An urgent necessity to understand the effect of climatic change on scleractinian cold-water coral (CWC) ecosystems has arisen due to increasing ocean warming and acidification over the last decades. Here, presence-absence records of 12 scleractinian CWC species from research expeditions and the literature were compiled and merged with model-generated pseudo-absence data and 14 environmental variables. The best-fitting results of 9 species distribution models (SDMs) were combined to an ensemble habitat suitability model for CWCs in the northern Southern Ocean (Weddell Sea and Antarctic Peninsula) by means of the open-source R package ‘biomod2’. Furthermore, 2 future scenarios of increasing bottom sea temperature were used to investigate the spatial response of scleractinians to temperature change. The resulting (current scenario) potential ecological niches were evaluated with good to excellent statistical measures. The results predict that present areas of highest probability of CWC occurrence are around the Antarctic Peninsula, South Orkney Islands and Queen Maud Land, with preference to geomorphic features such as seamounts. The distribution of CWC habitats is mainly driven by distance to coast and ice shelves, bathymetry, benthic calcium carbonate, and temperature. Under warming conditions, CWCs are predicted to expand their distribution range by 6 and 10% in 2037 and 2150, respectively, compared to the present distribution. The future models using increased bottom temperature revealed a stable CWC distribution for most parts of the study area. However, habitat shifts are expected to the Filchner Trough region, the adjacent continental shelves, as well as to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Nature-based solutions for coastal protection in sheltered and exposed coastal waters: integrated monitoring program for baseline ecological structure and functioning assessment
(Springer, 2024-02-28) Boulenger, Arnaud; Lanza Arroyo, Pablo; Langedock, Kobus; Semeraro, Alexia; Van Hoey, Gert; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Flanders Innovation and Entrepreneurship Agency
Nature-based solutions, such as shellfish reefs, can support natural coastal defence and be a potential solution for climate-resilient shorelines in the future. In the Belgian Part of the North Sea, the “Coastbusters” projects aim to develop nature-based coastal protection by favouring subtidal mussel bed establishment on the seafloor through typical longline aquaculture techniques. Mussel beds are dependent on environmental conditions, and both influence the physical and biogeochemical features in a soft-sediment environment. Therefore, a comprehensive ecological monitoring program is essential to assess the success of future mussel bed development and its influence on the surrounding ecosystem. For establishing a monitoring baseline of the two experimental areas, a combination of conventional benthic assessment methods (grab sampling and granulometry) and non-invasive techniques (sediment profile imaging and transect diving video surveys) were utilised. Although mussel reefs did not yet develop by the time of this study, clear differences in ecological and sedimentological characteristics were found between two experimental areas (sheltered and exposed), subjected to slightly different hydrodynamic conditions. The one sheltered by coastal sandbanks was dominated by fine-muddy sand, higher species richness, biomass, and higher biological activity (burrows, fauna, and biological beds) as observed by all methods in one or another way. Moreover, functional diversity indices revealed a higher partitioning of the total available resources, suggesting more complex ecological processes in the sheltered area. Conversely, the area more exposed to the open sea was dominated by more sandy sediments, and fewer organisms were found. The combination of those different monitoring tools provides an integrated, complementary view, from different perspectives, on the biological, physical and functional characteristics of the study areas.
A dataset of acoustic measurements from soundscapes collected worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic
(Springer Nature, 2024-08) Challeat, Samuel; Farrugia, Nicolas; Froidevaux, Jeremy S P; Gasc, Amandine; Pajusco, Nicolas; Silent Cities project consortium; Beltrán Gala, Juan Francisco; Rodríguez Rodríguez, Eduardo; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología
Political responses to the COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in city soundscapes around the globe. From March to October 2020, a consortium of 261 contributors from 35 countries brought together by the Silent Cities project built a unique soundscape recordings collection to report on local acoustic changes in urban areas. We present this collection here, along with metadata including observational descriptions of the local areas from the contributors, open-source environmental data, open-source confinement levels and calculation of acoustic descriptors. We performed a technical validation of the dataset using statistical models run on a subset of manually annotated soundscapes. Results confirmed the large-scale usability of ecoacoustic indices and automatic sound event recognition in the Silent Cities soundscape collection. We expect this dataset to be useful for research in the multidisciplinary field of environmental sciences.
Bosques de gorgonias amenazados en el Parque Natural del Estrecho. Evaluación del estado de conservación e implementación de medidas de restauración. Proyecto GOTARES
(Mancomunidad de Municipios de la Comarca del Campo de Gibraltar, 2022) Montseny Cusco, María; Florido Capilla, Marta; Navarro Barranco, Carlos; López González, Pablo José; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología
Los bosques de gorgonias del Parque Natural del Estrecho tienen un alto valor ecológico y económico, ya que forman áreas de cría y alevinaje para numerosas especies y representan un aliciente para el turismo deportivo responsable (como el buceo). Sin embargo, actualmente, los bosques de gorgonias han sufrido una gran regresión en este entorno y se encuentran principalmente amenazados por la presencia, cada vez mayor, del alga invasora Rugulopteryx okamurae y el aumento de la temperatura del agua. En este contexto, el proyecto GOTARES evalúa la distribución y estado actual los bosques de gorgonias en la Isla de Tarifa, y plantea medidas de restauración para reforzar sus poblaciones, mediante técnicas de trasplantes.
Crambe insularis sp. nov. (Crambeidae: Poecilosclerida) a New Crambeid from the Eastern Tropical North Pacific: Morphological, Molecular and Ontogenetic Approach
(MDPI, 2023) Bautista Guerrero, Eric; Carballo Cenizo, Juan José Luis; Rodríguez Troncoso, Alma Paola; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT). México
Specimens of Poecilosclerida taxa, collected from an insular coral community on the Pacific coast of Mexico, were identified as members of the family Crambeidae Lévi, 1963. They were associated with larvae and rhagon phases by using morphological characters, the nucleotide relationship and genetic divergence of three independent loci, two mitochondrial (COI and 16S rDNA) and one ribosomal (28S rDNA C3–C5). Crambe insularis sp. nov. differs from the general skeletal architecture in the genus Crambe Vosmaer, 1880, by its reduced spiculation defined by the presence of ectosomal and choanosomal monactinal megascleres, and the absence of microscleres. Bayesian and Maximum–Likelihood analyses of three loci supported the clustering of larvae, rhagon and adult sponge, all closely related to Mediterranean Crambe crambe (type species of the genus Crambe), and with South American Crambe species (C. chilensis, C. maldonadoi and C. amarilla) as sister species. The larva of C. insularis sp. nov. corresponded to the typical parenchymella larvae poecilosclerid species but with the presence of subtylostyles and styles. Ontogenetic process about the larval and rhagon of this new crambeid are provided. The morphological characters and molecular affinities of Crambe insularis sp. nov. are similar to Monanchora genus, and the implications are further discussed. This is the first taxonomic and molecular study with an integrative approach that includes other diagnostic features such as larval and rhagon development for the description of new species in Porifera.
Thermal tolerance does not explain the altitudinal segregation of lowland and alpine aquatic insects
(Elsevier, 2024-04) Carbonell Hernández, José Antonio; Pallarés Párraga, Susana; Velasco J.; Millán A.; Abellán Ródenas, Pedro; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Ministerio de Universidades. España
Elevation gradients provide powerful study systems for examining the influence of environmental filters in shaping species assemblages. High-mountain habitats host specific high-elevation assemblages, often comprising specialist species adapted to endure pronounced abiotic stress, while such harsh conditions prevent lowland species from colonizing or establishing. While thermal tolerance may drive the altitudinal segregation of ectotherms, its role in structuring aquatic insect communities remains poorly explored. This study investigates the role of thermal physiology in shaping the current distribution of high-mountain diving beetles from the Sierra Nevada Iberian mountain range and closely related lowland species. Cold tolerance of five species from each altitudinal zone was measured estimating the supercooling point (SCP), lower lethal temperature (LLT) and tolerance to ice enclosure, while heat tolerance was assessed from the heat coma temperature (HCT). Alpine species exhibited wider fundamental thermal niches than lowland species, likely associated with the broader range of climatic conditions in high-mountain areas. Cold tolerance did not seem to prevent lowland species from colonizing higher elevations, as most studied species were moderately freeze-tolerant. Therefore, fundamental thermal niches seem not to fully explain species segregation along elevation gradients, suggesting that other thermal tolerance traits, environmental factors, and biotic interactions may also play important roles.
Yield, nutrients uptake and lipid profile of the halophyte Salicornia ramosissima cultivated in two different integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems (IMTA)
(Elsevier, 2024-01-19) Castilla Gavilán, Marta; Muñoz Martínez, M.; Zuasti, E.; Canoura Baldonado, J.; Mondoñedo, R.; Hachero Cruzado, I.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF). E. U.
The nutrient removal, biomass production and nutritional value of the halophyte Salicornia ramosissima were evaluated in the context of an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system. The experiment consisted of an indoor fish RAS whose effluent was used to feed two different halophyte hydroponic systems: a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) system or a Deep Water Culture (DWC) system. The highest yield of S. ramosissima was observed in the DWC (320 g m−2 day−1), this system showed significantly higher yields compared to the NFT. Both hydroponic systems were effective in removing nutrients from the fish RAS wastewater, contributing to the wastes valorization process. Maximal nutrient uptake efficiencies were: 82.8% and 68.6% NO3− in the DWC and the NFT, respectively; 72.6% PO43− in the DWC and 82.9% in the NFT; 63.6% NO2− in the DWC vs 56.4% in the NFT; and 89.2% NH4+ in the DWC vs 94.1% in the NFT. The lipid profile of the halophytes in the DWC was analysed. The total lipid content ranged from 2.99% to 3.83%. The fatty acids (FA) profile in the leaves was dominated by polyunsaturated fatty acids (about 66%), which were represented by α-linolenic acid (41%) and linoleic acid (24%), followed by saturated fatty acids (28%) with palmitic acid (22%) as the major component. A small component of monounsaturated fatty acids accounts for about 12% of total FA. Regarding lipid classes, pigments were the most abundant compounds followed by glycolipids, phospholipids, flavonoids and sterols. The study supports the potential of S. ramosissima to valorise aquaculture wastes and its high nutritional interest. The experimental systems minimized waste and maximized resources utilization. Such integrated approaches can contribute to the sustainability and resilience of aquaculture systems while providing additional economic opportunities through the production of high value halophyte products.
Thermal biology of aquatic insects in alpine lakes: Insights from diving beetles
(Wiley, 2023-10-21) Carbonell Hernández, José Antonio; Pallares Párraga, Susana; Velasco, J.; Millán, A.; Picazo, Félix; Abellán Ródenas, Pedro; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICINN). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; Universidad de Sevilla
High mountain areas are especially vulnerable to global warming, as they ex-perience faster temperature changes than lowlands in a climate change con-text. Notably, increased temperatures and frequency of extreme flooding anddroughts, and the consequent decrease in ice cover and water availability fluctua-tions, will induce important physical changes in alpine freshwater systems. Thus,assessing thermal limits and exploring overwintering strategies of aquatic alpineinsects is pivotal to understanding how aquatic communities of high-mountainfresh waters will respond to climate change. However, knowledge on these topicsis still scarce for aquatic alpine insects.2. Here, the thermal biology of adults of five diving beetle species from alpinelakes located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range (southern Iberia) was stud-ied. Cold tolerance was measured estimating the supercooling point (SCP), lowerlethal temperature (LLT), tolerance to ice enclosure and to submersion, whereasheat tolerance was assessed from the heat coma temperature and upper lethaltemperature.3. All of the species survived ice enclosure for 3 h. Furthermore, three of the studiedspecies had SCPs higher than their LLTs, suggesting that they could be freeze-tolerant. All species except Agabus nevadensis also were tolerant to submersion,which could be a key adaptation for overwintering underwater below the icecover as adults, reducing risk from freezing conditions in the air. The species didnot differ significantly in their upper thermal limits, which were similar to those ofother dytiscids from lower altitudes.4. Overall, our results suggest that increasing temperatures is not expected to bethe most important threat for the water beetle populations in Sierra Nevada, butrather the colonisation of alpine lakes by lowland dytiscids in a warmer climatescenario.
Surface integrity could limit the potential of concrete as a bio-enhanced material in the marine environment
(Elsevier, 2024-02-09) Sempere Valverde, Juan; Chebaane, Sahar; Bernal Ibáñez, Alejandro; Silva, Rodrigo; Cacabelos, Eva; Ramalhosa, Patrício; Espinosa Torre, Free; Navarro Barranco, Carlos; Guerra García, José Manuel; Canning-Clode, João; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología
Coastal sprawl is among the main drivers of global degradation of shallow marine ecosystems. Among artificial substrates, quarry rock can have faster recruitment of benthic organisms compared to traditional concrete, which is more versatile for construction. However, the factors driving these differences are poorly understood. In this context, this study was designed to compare the intertidal and subtidal benthic and epibenthic assemblages on concrete and artificial basalt boulders in six locations of Madeira Island (northeastern Atlantic, Portugal). To assess the size of the habitat, the shorelines in the study area were quantified using satellite images, resulting in >34 % of the south coast of Madeira being artificial. Benthic assemblages differed primarily between locations and secondarily substrates. Generally, assemblages differed between substrates in the subtidal, with lower biomass and abundance in concrete than basalt. We conclude that these differences are not related to chemical effects (e.g., heavy metals) but instead to a higher detachment rate of calcareous biocrusts from concrete, as surface abrasion is faster in concrete than basalt. Consequently, surface integrity emerges as a factor of ecological significance in coastal constructions. This study advances knowledge on the impact and ecology of artificial shorelines, providing a baseline for future research towards ecological criteria for coastal protection and management.
Morphometric variations of two patellid limpets between artificial breakwaters and natural reefs
(Elsevier, 2024-01-10) Sempere Valverde, Juan; Ostalé Valriberas, Enrique; Espinosa Torre, Free; Márquez, Federico; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICINN). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER)
Artificial shorelines often differ from natural reefs in shape, composition, and habitat complexity. They promote higher accumulation of pollutants and increased physiological stress, which lead to changes in species distributions and ecosystem functioning. This can promote trophic shifts and reduced genetic diversity of gastropod populations inhabiting artificial shorelines and might promote morphological changes, which may influence behaviour, vulnerability to predation, feeding efficiency, sex ratios, reproductive development, and overall fitness. This study explores inter- and intraspecific shell morphometric variations in Patella rustica and P. caerulea between breakwaters (ripraps) and natural reefs in three sites of Ceuta (North Africa, Spain), including a physicochemical assessment of the studied locations: shore orientation, inclination and wave exposure, and substratum nature, heterogeneity and roughness. Limpets on artificial substrata had a slightly smaller extra-visceral cavity and flattened shell profile, which suggests that the desiccation and temperature stress driven by the lithological composition and roughness of the studied substrata might have influenced the registered shell shape variation. However, the high morphometric variation registered for both species across sites and substrata suggests that limpets' morphology might be responding to a complex interaction of environmental and ecological factors rather than solely rock type. The findings of this study highlight the complex interplay between rock type and local environmental conditions in shaping patellid limpets’ shell morphology and provide insights into the adaptive mechanisms that drive shell shape variation in limpet populations in the face of coastal sprawl and anthropogenic global change.
Livin' on the edge: reducing infanticide risk by maintaining proximity to potentially less infanticidal males
(Elsevier, 2024-02-13) Penteriani, Vincenzo; Kojola, Ilpo; Heikkinen, Samuli; Find'o, Slavomír; Skuban, Michaela; Fedorca, Ancuta; Balbontín Arenas, Javier; Delgado, María del Mar; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICINN). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; European Union (UE)
Infanticide is a significant evolutionary force influencing carnivore behaviours, as it is one of the primary contributors to offspring mortality. Female multimale mating, which creates paternal uncertainty, is known to reduce infanticide. We propose that two crucial steps are needed for this strategy to work in solitary species like brown bears, Ursus arctos. First, after mating, females should choose dens within their mating area (step 1), boosting the chances of encountering potential fathers of cub(s) after den emergence in spring. However, the efficacy of this strategy hinges on males' fidelity to the same mating areas from one year to the next (step 2). Our study confirmed that pregnant females consistently selected dens within their mating areas, with significant overlap (around 90%) between areas used by females with cubs and their mating zones. Males also demonstrated fidelity (over 65%) to mating areas over 2 consecutive years. Infanticide significantly shapes the sociospatial ecology of female brown bears, a phenomenon that can carry nutritional costs for females with cubs, and influence settlement patterns near human shields to increase reproductive success. Additionally, in hunted populations, removing resident males can trigger an influx of potentially infanticidal bears from elsewhere.
Levels of persistent organic pollutants (PoPs) and the role of anthropic subsidies in the diet of avian scavengers tracked by stable isotopes
(Elsevier, 2023-12-22) Muñoz Arnanz, J.; Cortés Avizanda, Ainara; Donázar Aramendía, Iñigo Javier; Arrondo, E.; Ceballos, O.; Colomer Vidal, P.; Jiménez, B.; Donázar, José A.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Comunidad de Bardenas Reales de Navarra. España; Junta de Andalucía; Generalitat Valenciana; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICINN). España
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) have been identified as a significant factor driving declines in wildlife populations. These contaminants exhibit a dual tendency to biomagnify up the food chains and persist within tissues, rendering long-lived vertebrates, such as raptors, highly vulnerable to their adverse effects. We assessed the concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in fledglings of two vulture species, the Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) and the griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), coexisting in northern Spain. Vultures, currently facing a severe threat with a population decline exceeding 90%, represent one of the most critically endangered avian groups in the Old World. Despite this critical situation, there remains a scarcity of research examining the intricate relationship between contaminant levels and individual foraging behaviors. In parallel, we analyzed stable isotope levels (δ15N and δ13C) in fledgling's feathers and prey hair to determine the association between individual dietary and contaminant burdens. Our findings revealed higher levels of PCBs in Egyptian vultures, while pesticide concentrations remained very similar between focal species. Furthermore, higher individual values of δ13C, indicating a diet based on intensive farming carcasses and landfills, were associated with higher levels of PCBs. While the levels of POPs found do not raise immediate alarm, the presence of individuals with unusually high values reveals the existence of accessible contamination sources in the environment for avian scavengers. The increasing reliance of these birds on intensive livestock farming and landfills, due to the decline of extensive livestock farming, necessitates long-term monitoring of potential contaminant effects on their populations.
Leakage of plastics and other debris from landfills to a highly protected lake by wintering gulls
(Elsevier, 2024-04-01) Martín Vélez, Víctor; Cano Povedano, Julián; Cañuelo Jurado, Belén; López Calderón, Cosme; Céspedes, Vanessa; Ros Clemente, Macarena; Sánchez Ordóñez, Marta Isabel; Green, Andy J.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Junta de Andalucía; European Union (UE). H2020; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España
General context Gulls ingest plastic and other litter while foraging in open landfills, because organic matter is mixed with other debris. Therefore, gulls are potential biovectors of plastic pollution into natural habitats, especially when they concentrate in wetlands for roosting. Novelty We quantified, for the first time, the flow of plastic and other anthropogenic debris from open landfills to a natural lake via the movement of gulls. We focused on Fuente de Piedra, an inland closed-basin lake in Spain that is internationally important for biodiversity. Methodology In 2022, we sampled gull pellets regurgitated in the lake by lesser black-backed gulls Larus fuscus that feed on landfills, as well as their faeces, then characterized and quantified debris particles of ≥0.5 mm. By combining GPS and census data from 2010 to 2022, together with plastic quantification based on FTIR-ATR analysis, we estimated the average annual deposition of plastic and other debris by the wintering gull population into the lake. Main results 86 % of pellets contained plastics, and 94 % contained other debris such as glass and textiles. Polyethylene (54 %), polypropylene (11.5 %) and polystyrene (11.5 %) were the main plastic polymers. An estimated annual mean of 400 kg of plastics were moved by gulls into the lake. Only 1 % of plastic mass was imported in faeces. Discussion Incorporating the biovectoring role of birds can provide a more holistic view of the plastic cycle and waste management. Biovectoring is predictable in sites worldwide where gulls and other waterbirds feed in landfills and roost in wetlands. We discuss bird deterrence and other ways of mitigating debris leakage into aquatic ecosystems.
Fine-scale niche differences allow the co-existence of congeneric aquatic beetles in supratidal rockpools
(Springer, 2023-08-11) García Meseguer, A. J.; Abellán Ródenas, Pedro; Miron Gaton, J. M.; Botella Cruz, M.; Guareschi, Simone; Millan, A.; Velasco, J.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Universidad de Murcia
Here we focused on the co-occurrence pattern on regional and local scales, and on the niche differences of two species of congeneric beetles (Ochthebius quadricollis and O. lejolisii, Hydraenidae) exclusive of supratidal rockpools. Abundances of adults and larval stages from both species and environmental variables were obtained in 10 pools from 12 localities along the Iberian Mediterranean coast. To determine the local co-existence pattern, we monthly sampled two localities in an annual cycle. On regional and local scales, we found negative correlations between both species’ pool abundances, which suggest spatio-temporal segregation based on their different environmental responses. The OMI analysis detected interspecific niche differences, larger in larvae than adults. The best regression models obtained for O. quadricollis larvae included depth, conductivity, and fine sediments as the main explanatory variables with a positive effect, and distance to sea and CPOM with a negative effect. For O. lejolisii larvae, the best models included CPOM and periphyton with positive effects, while pool area, depth and conductivity negatively affected. Our results suggest that subtle interspecific differences in ecological niches, mainly those related to pool hydroperiod and salinity, could determine spatio-temporal storage effects as the principal mechanisms of co-existence on local and regional scales.
Facilitation of macrofaunal assemblages in marinas by the habitat-forming invader Amathia verticillata (Bryozoa: Gymnolaemata) across a spatiotemporal scale
(Elsevier, 2023-11-24) Guerra García, José Manuel; Ruiz Velasco, Sofía; Navarro Barranco, Carlos; Moreira, Juan; Angulo, G.; García Domínguez, R.; Sáenz Arias, Pablo; López-Fé de la Cuadra, Carlos María; Ros Clemente, Macarena; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER)
Widespread habitat-forming invaders inhabiting marinas, such as the spaghetti bryozoan Amathia verticillata, allow exploring facilitation processes across spatiotemporal contexts. Here we investigate the role of this bryozoan as habitat for native and exotic macrofaunal assemblages across different ecoregions of Western Mediterranean and East Atlantic coasts, and a monthly variation over a year. While only 7 (all peracarid crustaceans) of the 54 associated species were NIS, they dominated macrofaunal assemblages in terms of abundance, raising the potential for invasional meltdown. NIS richness and community structure differed among marinas but not among ecoregions, highlighting the importance of marina singularities in modulating facilitation at spatial scale. Despite facilitation did not depend on bryozoan abundance fluctuations, it was affected by its deciduous pattern, peaking in summer and disappearing in late winter. Monitoring A. verticillata in marinas, especially in summer periods, may improve the detection and management of multiple associated NIS.
Ecological succession within microhabitats (tidepools) created in riprap structures hosting climax communities: An economical strategy for mitigating the negative effects of coastal defence structure on marine biodiversity
(Elsevier, 2024-01-28) Ostalé Valriberas, Enrique; Martín Zorrilla, A.; Sempere Valverde, Juan; García Gómez, José Carlos; Espinosa Torre, Free; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología
The substitution of natural habitats with artificial structures, such as coastal defence structures, has significantly detrimental effects on the marine biological community. In this context, the application of ecological engineering to marine ecosystems presents an opportunity to mitigate these environmental impacts and enhance ecosystem services. There are proposals aimed at mimicking structures found in the natural environment to increase topographic complexity in artificial substrates, thereby promoting biodiversity and hindering the establishment of invasive species. The present study focuses on assessing change in the biological community of intertidal pools constructed on existing coastal defence structures and their influence on a halo (5 cm) of humidity created around the pools. Using an inexpensive method, the tidepools were created at the beginning of 2014 using a pneumatic hammer (DeWalt brand D25902K), imitating the tidepools of the adjacent natural substrate. The coastal defence structures (riprap) which were selected for the study host climax communities since they were built >8 years ago. After 7.5 years of the creation of this microhabitat, the value of species richness in the tidepool was 64.2% higher than in the control, Shannon diversity 41.54% and functional diversity 6.27%. The study of the effect on a halo (5 cm) of humidity produced around the pool shows that Shannon diversity is higher than in the control treatment, demonstrating that the microhabitat created mitigates the harsh environmental (high temperature and desiccation) conditions of the intertidal zone beyond the interior of the tidepool. The results showed that the species richness in the tidepools was bigger in the high intertidal than the low, therefore it is more beneficial to create this microhabitat in high intertidal zone. The created microhabitats serve as shelter and breeding sites for animal species that were not previously observed in the studied artificial structure, as detected for species such as Pisania striata, Ocenebra edwarasii, Stramonita haemastoma, Meralarhaphe neritoides, Siphonaria pectinata, Paracentrotus lividus and Spirorbis sp., thus contribute to reducing the fragmentation of their populations. In terms of “ecological succession”, the current study demonstrated that typical species of a mature benthic biological community had colonised the created microhabitat 7.5 years later. These species included the Anthozoa Anemonia sulcata, Actinia equina and Exaiptasia diaphana or the endangered Mollusc Dendropoma lebeche.
Buoys are non-indigenous fouling hotspots in marinas regardless of their environmental status and pressure
(Elsevier, 2023-11-17) Sempere Valverde, Juan; Castro Cadenas, María D.; Guerra García, José Manuel; Espinosa Torre, Free; García Gómez, José Carlos; Ros Clemente, Macarena; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER)
Marinas contribute to the degradation of coastal ecosystems, constitute non-indigenous species (NIS) hotspots and function as steppingstones in invasion processes. These often enclose highly modified water bodies that promote the concentration of pollutants and propagules, favoring NIS abundance. In these habitats, floating structures are often the most invaded by fouling NIS. This study aims to address the effect of floating substrate (buoys vs pontoons) on fouling assemblages, with special focus on NIS, in 6 marinas of Cadiz Bay during summer and winter seasons. Since the effect substrate type can depend on the water physicochemical conditions and environmental state and pressures of marinas, an environmental assessment was carried out for each marina using literature, physicochemical water measurements and environmental risk assessments. Despite the registered seasonal variation in fouling assemblages and the environmental variability among the studied marinas, the type of substrate played a key role in fouling assemblages' structure and abundance. The higher abundance of fouling assemblages in buoys than pontoons favor NIS prevalence in marinas and increase the risk of NIS dispersal, particularly considering that buoys are more likely to detach and drift at sea than pontoons. The results indicate that high-risk consideration should be given to this substrate type and that the potential environmental effects of biological pollution must be considered in risk assessments.
Artificial portable plates: A brand new method for assisted colonization of an endangered marine invertebrate, Patella ferruginea
(Wiley, 2023-12-17) Pavón Paneque, Altai Carlos; Ostalé Valriberas, Enrique; Sempere Valverde, Juan; Sedano Vera, Francisco; Espinosa Torre, Free; García Gómez, José Carlos; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Educación. España
1. Limpets play an important role in structuring the intertidal fringe, one of the most heavily impacted marine habitats. A large number of limpet species are listed as Endangered or Vulnerable, including Patella ferruginea, one of the most endangered marine invertebrates in the Mediterranean Sea. 2. Relocation attempts have been made as a conservation tool for reintroductions and population reinforcements for P. ferruginea. Some relocations were mandatory because of port infrastructure repairs in areas where viable populations of this limpet occurred. However, most relocations attempted to date have experienced high mortality rates, leading to the Spanish National Conservation Strategy not recommending this approach for this species. 3. In this study, 84 individuals of P. ferruginea were relocated, using artificial portable plates (APPs) installed on the ripraps of the Port of Ceuta (Western Mediterranean Sea). These plates were divided into two groups and relocated: (i) as a translocation to a nearby site with similar environmental conditions to the donor area (procedural control); and (ii) as a reinforcement translocation to a relatively distant location (30 km, Algeciras Bay) (experimental procedure). The mortality of the translocated individuals in the procedural control after 10 weeks was similar (6.6%) to that expected for natural populations, whereas the mortality rate for individuals in the reinforcement translocation was higher (26.6%). 4. The APPs have been proven to be a feasible method for translocation, as they result in relatively low mortality by preventing the stress and damage caused by limpet detachment from substrata. The constraints caused by reinforcement translocation to a new environment seem to be the cause of the increased mortality, as the translocated limpets changed their home scar at a much higher rate than the control limpets did.
A new deep-sea species of golden gorgonian (Octocorallia: Scleralcyonacea: Chrysogorgiidae) from Antarctic waters
(Elsevier, 2024-01-11) Baena, Patricia; Martell, Luis; Soto-Angel, Joan J.; Ambroso, Stefano; López González, Pablo José; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Zoología; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Institute of Marine Research (IMR). Norway
The Southern Ocean harbours rich deep-sea ecosystems with local hotspots of benthic biodiversity. Still, many species, including deep-water octocorals, remain undescribed despite the fact that the exploration of the deep-sea has improved thanks to recent technological advances. In this context, a new species of golden gorgonian has been collected at 1407–1581 m depth during a recent cruise to Dronning Maud Land in the Eastern Weddell Sea. Currently, after recent changes in Chrysogorgia taxonomy, Chrysogorgia lunae sp. nov. (Octocorallia: Scleralcyonacea) is the only known representative of the genus in Antarctic waters. It corresponds to the "Squamosae typicae" and is characterized by a bushy colony with branching sequence of 2/5L and bell-shaped polyps. A molecular comparison with published sequences of Chrysogorgia species is provided based on a concatenated sequence of two mitochondrial genes, mtMutS and COI, as well as the 28S nuclear ribosomal gene.

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