coastal ecosystems
coastal ecosystems on World Data Ocean: a running collection of 7 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on coastal ecosystems in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. A Global Hub for Ocean Intelligence 4 World Data Ocean is a centralized digital platform where researchers, scientists, and ocean enthusiasts converge to explore, analyze, and… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around coastal ecosystems, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything World Data Ocean is covering right now.
Microparticle ingestion by the endangered marine otter (Lontra felina) in a human-impacted coastal ecosystem
Microplastic pollution poses a significant, validated threat to marine ecosystems, particularly for endangered species. This study empirically assessed microparticle ingestion by the endangered marine otter (*Lontra felina*) across three human-impacted coastal localities in Peru. Analysis of scat samples revealed a prevalence of microparticles, with Pucusana exhibiting the highest concentration. Dominant particle types included fibers, primarily polypropylene.
Abundance of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) along the Garden Route of South Africa
Human development increasingly threatens coastal ecosystems globally, impacting vulnerable species like the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphin (*Sousa plumbea*). Along South Africa’s Garden Route, this population, estimated at fewer than 500 individuals, faces mounting pressure. Recent photo-identification surveys validated an estimated 89 individuals within the study area—approximately one-fifth of the species’ total South African abundance. Analysis of longitudinal data reveals a concerning decline in local abundance between 2002/03 and 2014/15.
Beyond corals: unveiling the ecological roles of macroalgae in the Red Sea - a review
Macroalgae, often overshadowed by coral reefs, are fundamental drivers of marine ecosystem health and productivity. This review synthesizes current understanding of these vital organisms within the Red Sea, a unique and challenging environment characterized by extreme conditions. Macroalgae contribute significantly to primary production, habitat formation, and nutrient cycling, demonstrating their critical role in biodiversity. Addressing research gaps—including long-term monitoring and physiological responses—is essential for effective ecosystem management.
Tourism and coastal fisheries interaction: impacts and mechanism on social-ecological coastal ecosystems
Coastal ecosystems face a complex interplay between tourism and fisheries, both vital for livelihoods and local development. While tourism is often proposed as a sustainable alternative to overexploited fisheries, the precise nature of this interaction remains unclear. A recent scoping review of 317 articles reveals a growing body of research examining these impacts and underlying mechanisms. Findings suggest tourism can either increase or decrease fishing pressure, depending on governance structures and livelihood shifts.
Extreme warming increases metabolic demand and diminishes acidification effects on larval survival in the dog conch Strombus canarium
Rising ocean temperatures and acidification pose escalating threats to marine ecosystems. A recent study investigated the combined impact on *Strombus canarium* larvae, revealing that extreme warming significantly diminishes the effects of acidification on survival. While growth performance responded positively to moderately reduced pH, oxygen consumption increased with temperature. These contrasting responses highlight the potential for altered metabolic demands to constrain larval performance, suggesting thermal stress may become a dominant factor under future warming scenarios.
Marine science Indonesia
As a Fulbright applicant seeking to conduct longitudinal marine science research in Indonesia, I require a professional sponsor to navigate stringent visa requirements, despite securing independent funding for a 10-12 month residency. My research will contribute validated ocean intelligence, furthering our understanding of critical climate indicators. I am actively seeking connections to established marine science professionals within Indonesia for potential sponsorship. This pursuit aligns with World Data Ocean’s commitment to global collaboration; as highlighted in a recent discussion, “My mom doesn’t like my degree?
Harnessing the microbial carbon pump: prospects and challenges for coastal carbon sequestration
The Marine Microbial Carbon Pump (MCP) represents a promising, yet complex, avenue for coastal carbon sequestration. Recent research validates the MCP’s significant contribution to the global ocean carbon reservoir, with coastal systems responsible for 40–60% of recalcitrant dissolved organic carbon (RDOC) production. This review synthesizes advancements in technologies aimed at enhancing this natural carbon sink, highlighting challenges including low RDOC conversion efficiency and potential ecological risks.