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Harmful algal blooms are one of the consequences of the human impact on aquatic ecosystems, particularly the process of eutrophication. They can cause a variety of deleterious effects, including the poisoning of fish and shellfish, habitat disruptions for many organisms, water discolouration, beach fouling, and even toxic effects for humans. This volume is a comprehensive synthesis of the latest research achievements concerning harmful algae (HA) ecology. International experts provide an in-depth analysis of HA topics including: global distribution, ecology of major HA groups, ecology and physiology of HA, HA and the food web, studying and mitigating HA, the human impact on HA and HA impact on human activity. This volume is an invaluable source of information for researchers in HA ecology as well as for advanced students, lecturers, and environmental managers.

This book integrates a variety of issues such as regional settings of productivity and nutrient cycling; plankton of coastal and shelf systems; plankton, climate change and human-induced changes; harmful algae and their impacts; and gelatinous zooplankton. This book explores the intriguing marine plankton communities of the SWA region of South America encompassing low to high latitude environments, framed by a complex hydrographic background and global climate change.This vast and iconic region has been largely under-recognized and under-studied. However, in recent years a strong interest has emerged along with the acknowledgment of its high biological productivity. The book concludes by discussing conservation in the region, highlighting regional biodiversity hotspots where the challenges of climate change, habitat loss, and other threats to biodiversity may be particularly acute.Plankton Ecology of the Southwestern Atlantic is a timely synthesis of the field, setting a new baseline for future research. It will be important reading for both researchers and graduate students, and will also be of interest and use to a professional audience of oceanographers, conservation biologists, stake holders and educated science enthusiasts

This book describes essential principles of and approaches to monitoring and modeling algal blooms. Freshwater algal blooms have become a growing concern worldwide. They are caused by a high level of cyanobacteria, particularly Microcystis spp. and Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii, which can produce microcystin and cylindrospermopsin, respectively. Since long-term exposure to these cyanotoxins may affect public health, the reliable detection and quantification of these harmful algae species has become a priority in water quality management. The book utilizes an advanced monitoring approach to identify and quantify cyanobacteria species and various cyanotoxin-producing genotypes. Further, it uses a modeling approach to forecast the occurrence of the phytoplankton that causes algal blooms in freshwater reservoirs, providing a comprehensive picture of currently available micro- and macro-techniques for studying the problem of algal blooms. As such, it offers a valuable guide forresearchers, graduate students and professional engineers engaged in monitoring and modeling water quality in lakes and reservoirs. Dr. InChio Lou is an Assistant Professor at University of Macau, Macau, China. Dr. Boping Han is a professor at Jinan Universtiy, Guangzhou, China. Weiying Zhang is a researcher of Environmental Engineering in the area of freshwater phytoplankton at University of Macau, Macau, China.

The Chesapeake Bay is North America's largest and most biologically diverse estuary, as well as an important commercial and recreational resource. However, excessive amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment from human activities and land development have disrupted the ecosystem, causing harmful algae blooms, degraded habitats, and diminished populations of many species of fish and shellfish. In 1983, the Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) was established, based on a cooperative partnership among the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the state of Maryland, and the commonwealths of Pennsylvania and Virginia, and the District of Columbia, to address the extent, complexity, and sources of pollutants entering the Bay. In 2008, the CBP launched a series of initiatives to increase the transparency of the program and heighten its accountability and in 2009 an executive order injected new energy into the restoration. In addition, as part of the effect to improve the pace of progress and increase accountability in the Bay restoration, a two-year milestone strategy was introduced aimed at reducing overall pollution in the Bay by focusing on incremental, short-term commitments from each of the Bay jurisdictions. The National Research Council (NRC) established the Committee on the Evaluation of Chesapeake Bay Program Implementation for Nutrient Reduction in Improve Water Quality in 2009 in response to a request from the EPA. The committee was charged to assess the framework used by the states and the CBP for tracking nutrient and sediment control practices that are implemented in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and to evaluate the two-year milestone strategy. The committee was also to assess existing adaptive management strategies and to recommend improvements that could help CBP to meet its nutrient and sediment reduction goals. The committee did not attempt to identify every possible strategy that could be implemented but instead focused on approaches that are not being implemented to their full potential or that may have substantial, unrealized potential in the Bay watershed. Because many of these strategies have policy or societal implications that could not be fully evaluated by the committee, the strategies are not prioritized but are offered to encourage further consideration and exploration among the CBP partners and stakeholders.

Freshwater and Marine Ecology is an introduction to the field of aquatic ecology, integrating the conceptually and methodologically widely overlapping fields of limnology and biological oceanography. It is structured like most textbooks of general ecology, leading from more elemental entities (individuals having to cope with their environment) to increasingly overarching entities, from populations over communities and ecosystems to the biogeochemistry of the entire planet and, finally, an overview over the major human impacts on the aquatic components of the earth system. The book provides examples for all major theoretical concepts of general ecology while the usual ecology textbooks have a strong terrestrial bias and rely only on few aquatic examples. This book takes the contrasting approach, motivated by the fact the fact that life originated from aquatic systems and that surface waters cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface. The choice of studies used as examplesin Freshwater and Marine Ecology provides a balanced mix of freshwater and marine studies, of field observations, experimental and modeling studies. The readers are confronted with very recent work leading to the forefront of contemporaneous research but also with classic studies which laid the foundations of theory development in the field. Freshwater and Marine Ecology is a comprehensive text ideally serving for undergraduate courses in biological oceanography, limnology, and ecology, but also for advanced students, teachers and scientists who had limited exposure to aquatic sciences and/or ecology during their studies.

Recent Trends in Estuarine and Coastal Dynamics: Observations and Modelling is a thorough reference guide on the most recent trends and developments in observing and modelling of estuaries and coastal oceans. The coasts cover a diverse range of ecosystems within marine, estuarine, and freshwater environments. They are some of the most heavily populated and visited areas and are also some of the most threatened natural habitats. Human activities like sewage discharge, overfishing, navigation channel dredging, land reclamation, the construction of shipping ports and marine plastics are also responsible for coastal pollution and degradation. This book focuses on current studies on sediment transport dynamics and hydrodynamics of these environments and presents thorough case studies that aim to help students and researchers working in the field.Includes worldwide contributions from experts in the field of ocean modelling and coastal managementContains real-life case studies to guide students and researchersCovers the latest studies on recent developments in observing and modelling estuaries and coastal oceans

Assessments and Conservation of Biological Diversity from Coral Reefs to the Deep Sea: Uncovering Buried Treasures and the Value of the Benthos examines marine benthic habitats around the world that are linked by their physical location at the bottom of the oceans. The book approaches deep sea marine biodiversity with perspectives on genetics, microbiology and evolution, weaving a narrative of vital expert linkages with the goal of protecting something that most people cannot witness or experience. It provides a full assessment of biological diversity within benthic habitats, from coral reefs to plankton and fish species, and offers global case studies. It is the ideal resource for marine conservationists and biologists aiming to expand their knowledge and efforts to the rarely seen, yet equally important, realms of the ocean and respective benthic species. As these deep-sea ecosystems and their species face unprecedented threats of destruction and extinction due to factors including climate change, this book provides the most current knowledge of this undersea world along with solutions for its conservation.Compares and contrasts between shallow and marine habitats to reveal revolutionary connections and continuityAnalyzes modern threats and gaps in biological knowledge regarding benthic communitiesExamines benthic biodiversity through vertical vs. horizontal gradientsPoses possible solutions for the conservation of benthic habitats and organisms

This contributed volume covers all aspects of small indigenous fish for nutritional and livelihood security. The availability, descriptions and identification of common small indigenous fish provides potential and prospects of fish production from inland open water system. In addition, individual chapters are added on growth, feeding, diseases and health management of these small fishes. Essential information is provided on packaging and transport of these fishes. Specific chapters provide information on nutritional value of fishes, value addition and product development by using small indigenous fish species in different regions of the country. Further topics include small fishes of ornamental value, indigenous technical knowledge, climate change impact, conservation and management of small indigenous fish diversity. This book supports the academicians, farmers, entrepreneurs and fisheries professionals involved in gaining the knowledge and skills needed to contribute in nutritional and livelihood security of the nation.

This book provides a snapshot of the manifestations of the climate emergency in the Philippines from a wide array of disciplines including physical sciences, social sciences, arts and humanities, management, and law. Researchers and faculties at the University of the Philippines contributed to this compilation, where each chapter provides policymakers and the public a clear picture of why climate change must be confronted with a sense of urgency and near-desperation.Divided into three main parts, the first one zeroes in on climate-vulnerable sectors such as water, food and agriculture, health, and coastal communities in the Philippines to introduce readers to the current pressing impacts of the climate emergency. The second part presents case studies of local experiences from the country's three island regions, namely, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, and it situates the readers in different environments and contexts. The third part features transdisciplinary responses to the climate emergency, including salient challenges in relation to planning, financing, communication, and education. The concluding chapter highlights eight areas for action to tackle the climate emergency. Each chapter comes with an overview and a Summary for Policymakers, which provides clear guidance for action to be taken by both local and national policymakers.

Case Studies in Ecohealth is primarily intended to be a student textbook, using a series of case studies to illustrate key concepts applicable to EcoHealth, with a focus on taking an interdisciplinary approach to solving complex problems at the interface between animals and their environment. Using case studies, the book will illustrate key concepts in ‘EcoHealth'allowing readers to better understand the strengths and challenges of taking an ‘Eco Health'approach Within the key themes addressed in the book, the reader will gain insight into how to approach complex problems at the animal-environment interface using a transdisciplinary approach Access to the case studies presented in the book, along with supplementary material on line, will provide the reader with good examples of current and emerging issues for discussion in the class room or for field experience programs

In 2015 the first edition of this book was published before the Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention entered into force. To our knowledge this was and still is the first comprehensive book on BWM worldwide. It provided an overview of possible solutions to the complex issue of BWM. It further outlined consequences and implications to address the ballast water'problem'in line with provisions of the BWM Convention considering environmental, shipping, legal and policy perspectives. The previously addressed subjects remain essential, but new subjects appeared which more recently have proven to be critical for the effective BWM Convention implementation. After the first book content was already agreed and in preparation, new advances were achieved in BWM-related research around the world. Further, new experience was gained and issues came out during the preparation processes of countries for the BWM Convention implementation. The editors of the first book remained heavily involved in BWM-related research and other processes, hence these new critical BWM issues and subjects are now dealt with in the second edition of this book to complement the first one. In essence, this new book covers main issues that arose recently during the implementation of the BWM Convention. Scientists and experts with extensive experience in these subjects from around the globe from academic and private sectors, as well as national administrations, were involved in the preparation of this book.

This textbook offers a basic understanding of aquatic ecotoxicology from molecular to physiological levels for graduate and advanced undergraduate students. The book covers the guidelines and lab protocols used by international organizations for ecotoxicology studies, and discusses the challenges faced by aquatic organisms in a changing climate from an ecotoxicological perspective. Readers will learn about pollutants, contaminants and chemicals of emerging concern (CECs) in aquatic environments, their impacts on environmental and human health, and what techniques can be used to curb and control their adverse impacts. The book will be useful for students in aquatic ecotoxicology, environmental pollution and marine biochemistry.

Quality of Life and Climate Change: Impacts, Sustainable Adaptation, and Social-Ecological Resilience delves into the pressing concerns surrounding climate change and its profound impacts on the quality of life (QoL) experienced by individuals and communities worldwide. This book explores the intricate relationship between climate change, variability, and QoL in both rural and urban settings. It undertakes a detailed review of QoL assessments to examine the extent to which climatic changes and livability conditions are incorporated into existing evaluations. By shedding light on the critical need to consider climatic factors in measuring and comparing QoL, especially in the context of creating aging-friendly and climate-neutral cities, this publication addresses a significant research gap. To answer the question of how climate change and its variability impact the QoL of living beings across diverse geographical settings, this book expands our understanding of this crucial topic through reporting and documentation of the associations between climatic changes and QoL, particularly in understudied rural and urban areas. Furthermore, the book emphasizes resilience as a critical factor in maintaining urban QoL and developing sustainable living environments. A key contribution of this work lies in the exploration of various models adopted worldwide to enhance resilience and create sustainable living environments in the face of climate change. By examining these models, the book strives to identify effective solutions for maintaining and enhancing QoL, as well as building resilient systems capable of withstanding climate change and variability. This book presents prospective themes, including sustainable solutions, mitigation strategies, and models to enhance socio-ecological resilience. The chapters within the book cover a wide range of topics including climatic variations and future projections, technological advancements in climate change mitigation, implications for residential and non-residential areas, industrial solutions, SDG attainment, mitigation strategies, QoL measurement instruments, and urban QoL models. By addressing these themes, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex interactions between climate change, QoL, and the pursuit of sustainable development. This book serves as a valuable resource for researchers, academicians, policymakers, civil society groups, think tanks, government and non-government organizations, international agencies, and other interested parties seeking to deepen their knowledge and capacity in the field of climate change and its impacts on QoL and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) attainment.

This book discusses state-of-the-art techniques for ecosystem service valuation of forests, rivers, wetlands, lakes and coastal ecosystems, for their sustainable development and management. An ecosystem service valuation can be used to address environmental degradation of natural resources. Numerous natural and man-made factors like climate change, pollution, encroachment, and over-exploitation, have put ecosystems under threat worldwide. These ecosystems provide a lot of services to human beings but many of these services are not taken into account in the market prices for products and services, and their ecological functions are not economically valued. The valuation of these ecosystems'services will help to shed light on their sustainable management. This book offers a fresh and innovative resource that captures the latest advancements, addresses emerging challenges, and propels the field forward, making it a must-have for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. This book is also useful for stakeholders to achieve United Nations'Sustainable Development Goals 6 (Sustainability of water resources) and 13 (Climate action). The most relevant target audiences are hydrologists, hydrogeologists, environmental scientists, ecologists, biologists, and academicians. This book can be useful to post-graduate students, researchers, academicians, policy makers, NGOs in these fields. It also appeals to professionals in the fields of urban planning, agriculture, forestry, water resources management and environmental policy.

Bio-organic Amendments for Heavy Metal Remediation: Water, soil and plant focuses on these core continuum media to explore remediation options using microbial, organic and combined approached. A volume in the Plant Biology, Sustainability and Climate Change series, this book offers a comprehensive view of techniques and approaches for addressing contamination by heavy metals.As anthropogenic activities increasingly negatively impact natural resources, there has been significant disturbance of water, soil, and plant continuum due to the accumulation of heavy metals. The bioaccumulation of heavy metals in the food chain could pose life-threatening effects on plants as well as humans, and there is need to find effective and sustainable remediation options. The application of bio-organic amendments could serve as a sustainable solution to this problem.Employing microbial, organic and combined approaches to reduce the accumulation of heavy metals in the food chain ultimately would lead to the production of safe food for humans.This book provides a comprehensive view of the challenge with a focus on the bioremediation of heavy metals contamination using ecotechnological approaches to protecting the soil, water and plant continuum.Highlights remediation techniques/approaches for heavy metals under water, soil and plant continuumsPresents case-studies for real-world insights as well as current practicesIncludes regulatory aspects for ensuring safe implementation

Phytoplankton, or algae, are the engines of the Earth. They form the base of the aquatic food web and, although microscopic, they produce 50% of the oxygen in the air. Many of our ideas of what makes these cells “tick” come from ideas developed decades ago. But, lakes and oceans are changing- and so, too are phytoplankton. Our understanding has to change accordingly. Nutrient pollution is a major problem worldwide, and climate is changing, altering temperature, CO2 and pH, as well as the physics that control water stratification. All of these factors control which species of phytoplankton may grow well at any particular time. While algae grow in all types of aquatic systems, not all algae are favorable for the production of fish and other food resources. The prevalence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) has increased. At the core of this effort is a drive to understand–and to convey to researchers, students and managers–what kinds of phytoplankton are likely to thrive as conditions change and why this matters. There has not yet been a synthetic summary that unravels the mysteries of phytoplankton in a modern world. This book aims to provide such a resource.

The edited book serves as a reference on indicators of environmental pollution and how to sustainably ascertain the effects of different pollutants on life forms. It addresses an improved technology for monitoring contaminants, especially in the Global South and beyond, where the level of technology available for sustainable management of environmental quality is limited. Biomonitoring ecosystems'health by using organisms to gather quantitative data on environmental quality is one of the most straightforward and affordable ways to check environmental quality. Since organisms may function as environmental sensors, their use in the direct measurement of environmental quality in the process of biomonitoring studies implicates the health status of various ecosystems. In this regard, microorganisms, higher and lower plants, invertebrates, and vertebrate animals are beneficial since they can detect pollution levels and pollutants in the environment. This book is of interest and useful to toxicologists, water, soil, and air quality experts, practitioners, trainees, and trainers, biological sciences scientists, academicians, researchers, students (especially undergraduates and postgraduates), libraries, and other public knowledge repositories interested in novel and advanced practices in sustainable biomonitoring of environmental pollutants.

One of today's most accomplished biologists and gifted storytellers reveals the rules that regulate all lifeHow does life work? How does nature produce the right numbers of zebras and lions on the African savanna, or fish in the ocean? How do our bodies produce the right numbers of cells in our organs and bloodstream? In The Serengeti Rules, award-winning biologist and author Sean Carroll tells the stories of the pioneering scientists who sought the answers to such simple yet profoundly important questions, and shows how their discoveries matter for our health and the health of the planet we depend upon.One of the most important revelations about the natural world is that everything is regulated—there are rules that regulate the amount of every molecule in our bodies and rules that govern the numbers of every animal and plant in the wild. And the most surprising revelation about the rules that regulate life at such different scales is that they are remarkably similar—there is a common underlying logic of life. Carroll recounts how our deep knowledge of the rules and logic of the human body has spurred the advent of revolutionary life-saving medicines, and makes the compelling case that it is now time to use the Serengeti Rules to heal our ailing planet.Bold and inspiring, The Serengeti Rules illuminates how life works at vastly different scales. Read it and you will never look at the world the same way again.

Microbiome-Based Decontamination of Environmental Pollutants explores the complex interactions of plant-associated microbiomes, providing insights into the pressing challenges of managing environmental resources such as soil, water, and waste. Analysis has shown a formidable potential based in the network interactions between plant microbiota and environmental contaminants. This book presents insights into the potential exploitation of these plant-associated microbial functions. This volume in the Plant and Soil Microbiome series summarizes microbiological aspects of environmental management from the basics to advanced theoretical as well as practical aspects of microbial-based approaches. The physical and chemical changes caused by pollution of an ecosystem can occur rapidly, significantly impacting the functionality of ecosystem services in that environment. Environmental contamination poses and increasingly global challenge through direct and indirect adverse impacts on the climate, soil productivity and the health concerns of human beings. Traditional remediation techniques are not consistently feasible in mitigating environmental contaminants challenges in terms of cost-effectiveness, limited land resources and toxic residual products. The use of plant-associated microbes as part of a network of tools opens a new door to explore an alternative, eco-friendly and economical technology to mitigate the challenges of environmental contamination.Explores the emerging plant microbe interactive nexus for contaminants degradationPresents insights into the production and commercialization of plant-microbiome based enzymesIncludes engineered microbes and microbial products application in contaminant managementHighlights the latest omics and technologies used in plant–soil microbiome in contaminant management

This book presents technoeconomic challenges, recent trends, and developments toward sustainable algal biofuels and biorefinery. The exponential increase in population and thus the demand for energy, the ever-rising threats to climate change with conventional fossil fuels consumption, fluctuations in fossil fuels price and geopolitical instability have made each and every country of the world to think over its energy independence and security by increasing its own domestic energy production and reducing dependence on scarce fossil fuels. The global need to shift towards a sustainable source of energy has led to the discovery of third and fourth generation biofuels, in which microalgae and their genetically modified strains have been exploited. However, these simple photosynthetic organisms are difficult to select and cultivate for the production of biodiesel. Genetic engineering has opened provisions for the introduction of desired traits to such useful strains. There are also scopes for designing of novel photobioreactors (PBRs) having strain-specific physicochemical parameters, adequate CO2 and nutrient supply, and so on. The role of microalgae in CO2 sequestration from the environment is well known fact. Wastewater treatment plants can be used a raceway pond for the microalgal biomass production, and thus, obtained biomass can be used for biofuels and biochemical production. Mathematical modelling can be used to understand the complex phenomena inside the photobioreactor, which can be a great help to overcome the limitations related to design and scale up of PBRs. Flow hydrodynamics in PBRs has significant effect on the microalgae growth. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can be used to study operating and geometry factors in PBRs that influence the flow dynamics, such as the inlet gas flow rate, mixing, mass transfer, reactor geometry. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) particularly artificial neural network model (ANN model), statistical and evolutionary learning-based techniques are some innovative approaches in manipulating and optimizing productivity and costs in algal biofuel production. This book is aimed to bring several aspects of algal biorefinery and microalgal biofuel production, challenges, and future perspective of microalgal biofuel production at a single place.

Treatise on Estuarine and Coastal Science is the most up-to-date reference work for system based coastal and estuarine ecosystem science and management. It addresses the big issues facing the estuaries and coastal zone; in particular how to best use multi- and inter-disciplinary science to ensure the sustainability of the environment. It focusses on the need to protect and maintain the natural functioning of the estuaries and coasts worldwide while delivering the ecosystem services from which society extract goods and benefits.Structured chapters, written by leaders in the field, include reference lists and additional reading, copious diagrams, case-studies, and especially provide synthesis diagrams and conceptual models of complex issues. The Treatise covers both the natural and social sciences, serving a wide audience which ranges from undergraduate students to established researchers and practitioners.The work avoids autecological studies but focusses on inter-linked physical-chemical-biological-ecosystem processes and associated socio-economic issues in the coastal zone. It examines estuaries and coasts, and their interactions and feedbacks with humanity, from the inland catchment/river basin to the ocean shelf.The new edition builds on and expands the previous version with significant updates and a whole new section on Climate Change and Coastal Ecosystems, covering the resistance and resilience of the estuaries, coasts and other transitional habitats to climate change, thereby determining changes and responses needed over the coming decades.Comprehensive – a unique resource in the field, Treatise on Estuarine and Coastal Science covers system based coastal and estuarine science and management, linking physical, chemical and biological ecosystem processes with associated socio-economic issues.Highly regarded: the previous edition was very well received by the market and widely used, with over 50,000 chapter downloads.Updated and forward-looking: the new edition expands the previous version with significant updates and a whole new section on Climate Change and Coastal Ecosystems, covering the resistance and resilience of the estuaries, coasts and other transitional habitats and responses needed over the coming decades.Authoritative and accessible – 155 chapters, written by leaders in the field, provide synthesis and conceptual models of complex issues, ensuring that the knowledge within is easily understood by a large audience.Structured content - all chapters follow a common structure with set headings, making it easier for users to cross-compare and navigate the content.

This new textbook provides an accessible introduction to sustainable aquaculture through its relationship with three key pillars: the environment, the economy, and society.As the demand for seafood keeps increasing, aquaculture is considered one of the most promising and sustainable ways to satisfy this demand with nutritious and high-quality food. It is important to understand, therefore, the wider role and impact aquaculture has on the environment, the economy, and society. The book begins by providing a foundational introduction to aquaculture and sustainability, discussing the complex and interdependent relationship that exists between the two. The core text of the book is divided into four parts which focus on the environment, economics, social impacts, and governance and technologies. Chapters examine key issues surrounding climate change, food security, new technologies, bioeconomics and risk analysis, international cooperation, employment, and animal welfare, with the book concluding with a chapter examining the future directions and challenges for the aquaculture industry. The book draws on global case studies and each chapter is accompanied by recommended reading and chapter review questions to support student learning.This book will serve as an essential guide for students of aquaculture, fisheries management, and sustainable food, as well as practitioners and policymakers engaged in sustainable fishery development.

For many people, thoughts of the United Arab Emirates conjure images of ultramodern skyscrapers and rolling sand dunes. However, the Emirates are a rich mosaic of ecosystems and habitats that support surprisingly diverse communities of organisms, and there is growing awareness of the importance of these previously underappreciated natural assets. A Natural History of the Emirates provides a comprehensive overview of the unusual environmental setting of this young nation, and surveys the major ecosystems and the marine and terrestrial organisms occurring across the nation. From freshwater streams in the hyperarid Hajar Mountains to the world's most temperature-tolerant coral reefs, the UAE is home to an astounding variety of uniquely adapted organisms that are providing insights into climate change and how organisms cope with and respond to extreme environmental conditions. The book closes with a section on human interactions with this unique environment, and proposes initiatives to ensure the protection of these unique natural assets into the future. This is an open access book.

Ammonia oxidising bacteria (AOB) and archaea are ubiquitous microorganisms, but their abundance and diversity vary widely across environments and play a crucial role in many ecosystems and aquatic ecosystems in particular. However, characterization of AOB communities requires genomic methods as they are difficult to isolate from samples. Although non-toxic to humans, in the short term, ammonia in water systems is harmful to aquatic life both directly and indirectly through the disruption of the ecosystem by promoting the proliferation of algae (a process called eutrophication). Contamination often occurs due to use of disinfectants with chloramines, fertilizers, waste disposal and from natural processes. Due to their natural presence, utilising AOBs to treat water is viewed as an attractive solution, but greater knowledge of their biochemical processes and measurement of their efficacy is required. Ideal for postgraduates and researchers in a variety of disciplines, this book covers the ecology, genomics, physiology and biochemistry of AOBs and their presence in wastewater, and the challenges, opportunities and potential applications for nitrification and ammonia removal.

Rivers of North America, Second Edition features new updates on rivers included in the first edition, as well as brand new information on additional rivers. This new edition expands the knowledge base, providing readers with a broader comparative approach to understand both the common and distinct attributes of river networks. The first edition addressed the three primary disciplines of river science: hydrology, geomorphology, and ecology. This new edition expands upon the interactive nature of these disciplines, showing how they define the organization of a riverine landscape and its processes. An essential resource for river scientists working in ecology, hydrology, and geomorphology. Provides a single source of information on North America's major rivers Features authoritative information on more than 200 rivers from regional specialists Includes full-color photographs and topographical maps to illustrate the beauty, major features, and uniqueness of each river system Offers one-page summaries help readers quickly find key statistics and make comparisons among rivers

This book provides a detailed evaluation of the hydro-ecological characteristics of the Western Balkans, an area characterized by still preserved inland waters and fish resources important for the European continent, as well as the biodiversity of inland waters important for the planet Earth. Freshwater ecosystems cover only 1% of the Earth's surface; however, they are a habitat for about 40% of fish species. At the same time, inland fisheries make less than 12% of the world's global fish catch, with 43% coming from low-income and food-deficient countries (Africa, South America, Southeast Asia). In Europe, the Western Balkans have significant fishing waters and fish resources, including the Middle Danube drainage (Sava, Drina, Velika Morava river systems), large ancient lakes (Skadar/Shkodra, Ohrid, Prespa, Dojran), and the Adriatic basin characterized by endemic and commercially important species. However, in contrast to the high fishing potential in a significant part of the Western Balkans, diverse and specific political, economic, and social factors largely had a negative impact on the state of fish resources. This volume is multidisciplinary and provides a sound knowledge base for scientific and practical fisheries. In addition, it may be a valuable guide for managers and conservationists worldwide to adapt methods and procedures for the ecological sustainability of fish resources under specific local, natural, and socio-economic conditions. Finally, the content is a good reference for natural sciences and agriculture students studying fish, fish resources, and fisheries sciences. It would improve their knowledge and perspectives on the challenges of sustainable use and conservation of inland water resources.

This book is the first comprehensive account of the modern Kenya Rift Valley lakes and their precursor lakes preserved in the sedimentary record. The first part gives the broad geological and environmental background to the Kenya Rift and a history of research. In the second part, each modern lake is described from perspectives of geology, limnology, ecology, sedimentology and late Quaternary history. The fossil lake sediments, some linked to hominin sites, and their paleoenvironmental history are considered in the third part. In the fourth section, the global tectonic, volcanic and climate controls of lake evolution in continental rifts are examined. The last section discusses the resource potential of the lakes and their sediments, and the environmental issues that currently affect the modern lakes. This research-level book (geology, paleoecology) is illustrated throughout by original figures and photographs.

This reference book covers the ecological impact and biotechnological applications of diatoms. Diatoms contribute to 40% of primary productivity in aquatic ecosystems. They have a unique biomonitoring ability and sensitivity toward different pollutants in wastewater, and are thereby a tool for ecotoxicological monitoring. The book discusses the need for newer diatom-based indices for wastewater quality analysis. It describes the nutraceutical value of the myriad compounds like omega 3 fatty acids-DHA, polysaccharides, and phenols in diatoms. It also elaborates on the challenges in sustainable diatom biorefinery. This book is meant for microbiologists, biotechnologists, and marine biologists.

This contributed volume covers the applications of marine biotechnology for food, drugs and energy production using marine resources. It introduces many aspects of marine biotechnology, including bioenergy, pharmaceutical development, food security from mariculture, pollution handling, legal issues and conflicts. Information in the book is accompanied by clear images, flow charts, quantitative and qualitative data. Marine biotechnology is essential for realizing the previously untapped potential of marine bio-resources. These resources are used to develop innovative goods and procedures that aid in the global management of food, energy, and disease management. The development of innovative tools and solutions for more sustainable marine environmental management is another important section of this title. This reference book is of interest to teachers, researchers, and climate change scientists. It serves as an additional reading material for college, undergraduate, and graduate students of marine science and aquaculture. This is also a good research guide for food and fishing industry scientists.

This book discusses current knowledge and challenges with the ecological management and conservation of wetlands, with a focus on the East Kolkata Wetlands of India. This area is referred to as a Ramsar Site, a designation given to areas with special protection statuses, since it is the largest natural waste recycling system in the world. The site faces many threats to its biodiversity and ecosystem functioning due to anthropogenic activity in the region, and therefore an assessment of the ecosystem services, bio-ecological uniqueness, and issues stemming from climate change and human impacts is needed to develop protection strategies for the future ecological functioning and sustainability of the wetlands. The authors use GIS and remote sensing techniques to assess and monitor harmful industrial and environmental impacts on the wetlands, and to inform mitigation and conservation strategies in the face of ongoing threats such as pollution, habitat destruction and bioinvasion. Thebook also highlights various social and economic aspects tied to the functioning and management of the wetlands, along with ecological, biological, and physio-chemical considerations. The study will be of use to students and researchers in aquatic ecology, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability and conservation, as well as to environmental planners, engineers, and policymakers.

This textbook addresses global and local environmental problems and the involvement of microorganisms in their development and remediation. In particular, methodological aspects, some of them molecular genetic, for the study of microbial communities are considered. Overall, the prominent role of microorganisms in various material cycles is presented. In addition to biochemical principles for the degradation of environmental pollutants, the use of microorganisms in environmental biotechnological processes for the purification of air, water or soil as well as in environmentally friendly production processes is discussed. The book is intended for biologists with an interest in environmental microbiological issues, but also for students of process or environmental engineering, geoecology or geology, as well as students of other environmental science disciplines. For the 3rd edition, the authors have completely revised, corrected, updated and supplemented the book.

Coastal Habitat Conservation: New Perspectives and Sustainable Development of Biodiversity in the Anthropocene offers the latest research and approaches to biodiversity conservation in coastal areas. The book synthesizes the background of foundational conservation views and provides new perspectives and recent strategies within a sustainable development context for coastal species and organic life. Written by a team of international authors with expertise in wide-ranging issues of biodiversity conservation, this book analyzes the challenges of conserving marine habitats and species that humanity faces in the Anthropocene era. Sections explore emerging and unforeseen impacts within a changing world, specifically, the marine-based conservation in the context of global change, coastal urbanization and mitigation of its environmental impacts, marine bioinvasions, conservation strategies for of out-of-sight communities like caves, habitat restoration, and the citizen science and its challenging role in monitoring conservation. Discusses different strategies to deal with various biological and ecological impacts on coastal marine species and habitats Offers new insights into the practices of marine conservation in the Anthropocene Led by editors whose expertise includes marine biodiversity, marine ecology and marine habitat conservation

DNA is the essence of life and the original ‘big data'. New technologies are allowing scientists to access and make sense of this information like never before, and they are using it to solve the world's greatest environmental challenges. Applied Environmental Genomics synthesises the latest and most exciting uses of genomic technologies for environmental science and management. With an emphasis on diversity of applications and real-world demonstrations, leading researchers have contributed detailed chapters on innovative approaches to obtaining critical management-relevant information about the natural world. These chapters are complemented by perspective sections written by environmental managers who describe their experiences using genomics to support evidence-based decisions. Ideal for students, researchers and professionals working in natural resource management and policy, Applied Environmental Genomics is a comprehensive introduction to a fast-moving field that is transforming the practice of environmental management, with profound relevance to industry, government and the public.

Nombre de grands lacs de la planète ne sont, en réalité, pas assez vastes pour faire face aux usages qui en sont faits par les activités humaines, telles qu'elles se déploient depuis plus d'un siècle. Les limites de ces macro-écosystèmes à dimension continentale se manifestent par toute une série de pathologies qui les affectent et qui s'accompagnent d'une dégradation des services écosystémiques rendus : pêche, approvisionnement en eau, autoépuration, dilution des pollutions, services culturels et récréatifs, etc. En outre, l'ensemble des tensions en cause s'exerce désormais dans un contexte de multi-stress dû au changement climatique. La taille « grand lac », l'inertie et la complexité dont elle dote les systèmes concernés, se traduit par des conditions d'expositions et de réponses inédites, difficiles à intégrer en termes de gestion.L'ouvrage propose une analyse pluridisciplinaire de diverses expériences de restauration menées sur des grands lacs de la planète (réussites et échecs). Riche d'enseignements sur la sauvegarde et la préservation du patrimoine lacustre mondial, cette étude ouvre des pistes de réflexion sur les futurs défis écologiques à relever pour préparer les systèmes « lac-bassin versant-société » à la nouvelle donne, en termes de climat et de pollution.Ce livre est destiné aux étudiants, enseignants et chercheurs, aux gestionnaires des milieux lacustres, ainsi qu'au grand public intéressé par la préservation et la restauration des grands lacs.

More than 4000 beaches distributed along the Brazilian coastline are one of the country's main assets. They harbor endemic and diverse biota and provide numerous goods and services essential to human populations. However, they are under increasing pressure, trapped between the impacts of climate change and human activities in the terrestrial and marine environment, and the knowledge about their environmental characteristics and biodiversity is still insufficient to ensure their preservation. This book is the first-ever comprehensive work about Brazil's sandy beaches addressing their physical, ecological, and social aspects. It was written by an interdisciplinary group of leading Brazilian researchers from different regions of the country and also had the contribution of a few international experts. The information synthesized in this book is accessible to anyone who wants to know more about Brazilian coastal biodiversity and represents a significant step towards conserving Braziliansandy beaches, their biodiversity, and ecosystem services.

This book covers several innovative alternative livelihoods based on mangrove floral resources with their respective SWOT analysis. True mangrove flora and their associates in Indian Sundarbans are noted for their wide spectrum of ecosystem services in which livelihoods of the region are one of the most important components. Many alternative mangrove-centric livelihoods are in the pipeline of startup. However, due to difficulty in marketing and lack of clarity over ownership of natural resources, the values of the mangrove-based products have not been fully realized. Natural resources of several categories in Indian Sundarbans like oysters, seaweeds, medicinal mangrove flora, vitamin-rich mangrove fruits, etc. are still lying untapped. These untapped resources have been spun with the livelihood sectors of the Sundarban people backed up with sound business models to make the venture sustainable. The carbon foot prints associated with each of these livelihoods have been studied in details and steps have been suggested for net zero carbon livelihood programmes along with their sustainability. The book provides the readers about several mangrove-based cutting-edge researches and technologies in the domain of climate resilient livelihood, which if implemented can lead to food and economic security of the region.

Armenia is a small landlocked mountainous country located in the Southern Caucasus. It is a typical mountainous country, having its lowest point of 375m above sea level and culminating at 4095m with an average altitude of 1850m, where the landscapes and ecosystems form a complex multi-functional system. In general, the ecosystems of Armenia are characterized by a number of peculiarities, which all together contribute to formation of rich and unique biodiversity. On the small territory of Armenia (less than 30 thousand km2) there are about 3800 species of vascular plants (about a half of the whole Caucasian flora), 428 species of soil and water algae, 399 species of mosses, 4207 species of fungi, 464 species of lichens, 549 species of vertebrates and about 17200 species of invertebrates. The biodiversity of Armenia is notable for high endemism: about 500 species of fauna (about 3% of the fauna) and 147 species of flora (3.8% of total flora) are considered endemics. Such a high level of endemism is typical only for some of the large islands. Due to the huge variety of climates (from dry subtropics to cold alpine) and soil conditions all the main Caucasian ecosystems (besides humid subtropics) are represented in Armenia – deserts and semi-deserts, steppes, meadow-steppes, forests and open woodlands, sub-alpine and alpine vegetation as well as intrazonal ecosystems. Therefore Armenia is a biodiversity hotspot both within the Caucasian ecoregion and around the globe. This book compiles, summarizes and analyzes data on flora, fauna and mycobiota of Armenia, with a special focus on the impact of forecasted climate change on biodiversity and ecosystems of the region.

This book is devoted to the exploration of innovative sensing technologies for marine applications. The book focuses on various novel biosensor designs from nano-biosensors to molecularly imprinted polymers offering a broad perspective for marine biosensors development to deployment challenges.The book aims to target researchers in the area of marine monitoring, sensor developments and deployment of devices in the marine environment.

The Lymnaeidae (also known as ‘pond snails') are a species-rich and globally distributed family of freshwater snails, many species of which are known to be hosts of parasitic trematodes (such as the liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica). Written by world-leading experts in the field, this book covers a wealth of topics ranging from the phylogeny and taxonomy of lymnaeid snails to their relationships with helminths and their impact on public and veterinary health. It provides an overview of the species richness, evolution, ecology, biogeography and fossil record of the family. A considerable number of chapters are devoted to the economic and medical importance of lymnaeids, their involvement in the transmission of fascioliasis and other zoonotic diseases. Special chapters deal with the molecular and morphological identification of the Lymnaeidae, their rearing in the laboratory and experimental approaches to their study. This contributed volume is aimed at experts and practitioners in various disciplines: Invertebrate zoology, evolutionary biology, biogeography, aquatic ecology, parasitology, epidemiology and public health. It is also useful for university lecturers, undergraduate and postgraduate students.

This book provides the advance research results of environmental pollution and governance and covers the main research field of environmental remediation, environmental monitoring, sanitation and so on. Nowadays, environmental pollution, as one of the most important problems in the world, has seriously affected the global ecology, temperature, water resources and so on. Therefore, the research on environmental governance can better help us comprehend the methods and measures of environmental protection and protect our ecology more scientifically and effectively. This book also aims to promote scientific information interchange between scholars from the top universities, research centers and high-tech enterprises working all around the world. It is beneficial to scholars, engineers and researchers in the field of environmental engineering and environmental governance.

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An ecologist explores how life itself shapes Earth using the elemental constituents we all shareIt is rare for life to change Earth, yet three organisms have profoundly transformed our planet over the long course of its history. Elemental reveals how microbes, plants, and people used the fundamental building blocks of life to alter the climate, and with it, the trajectory of life on Earth in the past, present, and future.Taking readers from the deep geologic past to our current era of human dominance, Stephen Porder focuses on five of life's essential elements—hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. He describes how single-celled cyanobacteria and plants harnessed them to wildly proliferate across the oceans and the land, only to eventually precipitate environmental catastrophes. He then brings us to the present, and shows how these elements underpin the success of human civilization, and how their mismanagement threatens similarly catastrophic unintended consequences. But, Porder argues, if we can learn from our world-changing predecessors, we can construct a more sustainable future.Blending conversational storytelling with the latest science, Porder takes us deep into the Amazon, across fresh lava flows in Hawaii, and to the cornfields of the American Midwest to illuminate a potential path to sustainability, informed by the constraints imposed by life's essential elements and the four-billion-year history of life on Earth.

Nature-based solutions (NbS) are solutions inspired or supported by nature. They include ecosystem conservation and restoration measures, as well as the creation or enhancement of natural processes in man-made ecosystems, such as cities. Recent interest in NbS has emphasized their importance for urban water management and cities across the world have begun to experiment with them. Experiences from different contexts, however, are not adequately captured and understood. This book aims to address this gap by compiling case studies and reviews that explore NbS for urban water management from different regions and perspectives and highlight emerging challenges and opportunities for harnessing their potential.

This book delves into microbial production and its implications for various industries and presents the latest advancements in the field of bioactive compound production by microorganisms. Divided into 16 chapters, the book covers a wide range of topics, starting with the emerging trends in microbial production techniques, followed by the potential of fungi and algae in producing bioactive compounds, and the applications of bioactive compounds in medicine, agriculture, and industry. Contributions from expert scientists emphasize the significance of metabolic engineering and modern analytical techniques for the extraction, purification, and structural characterization of microbial bioactive compounds. The authors also present alternative technologies and methodologies for the recovery and extraction of these compounds from microbial sources and highlight the health-promoting benefits of natural plant-derived bioactive compounds. Particular attention is given to nanocarriers and their potential for managing the delivery of bioactive compounds in therapeutic applications. The importance of actinomycetes and their bioactive potential in the agricultural sector is also discussed. In this book, readers will also find out about the importance of microbial community dynamics in Antarctica, their ecological potential, and their industrial application. The last chapter of the book offers an industrial perspective of microbial pigments and their applications. This book is a valuable resource for researchers, academics, and industry professionals seeking to understand and harness the potential of microbial bioactive compounds for sustainable development, industrial applications, and improved human well-being.

This comprehensive volume gathers foremost experts on the coral reefs of Cuba who represent a spectrum of disciplines, including biology, conservation ecology, economics and geology. The volume is organized along general themes including the Cuban Reef biota, reefs occurring in the Mesophotic and Eutrophic zones, ecology, conservation, management and the economic importance of the coral reefs of Cuba. The combination of case studies, new and previously published research, historical overview and examples of the ways in which research has contributed to the management and conservation of Cuban coastal resources provides a unique reference for graduate students and professionals holding a wide range of interests and expertise related to coral reef systems.

Home to over 80 percent of all life on Earth, the ocean is the world's largest carbon sink and a key source of food and economic security for billions of people. The relevance of the ocean for humanity's future is undisputed. However, the ocean's great potential to drive economic growth and equitable job creation, sustain healthy ecosystems, and mitigate climate change is not yet fully recognised. Lack of awareness of this potential as well as management and governance challenges pose impediments. Until these impediments are removed, ocean ecosystems will continue to be degraded and opportunities for people lost. A transition and a clear path to a thriving and vibrant relationship between humans and the ocean are urgently needed. This open access collection of papers and reports identifies a path that is inspired by science, energised by engaged people, and emboldened by visionary leaders. These assessments of knowledge are commissioned by the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy (Ocean Panel), which was established in September 2018 as a unique initiative led by heads of state and government from around the world, to showcase the latest leading-edge science, knowledge and state-of-the-art thinking on key ocean issues. Altogether, The Blue Compendium offers innovative ocean solutions in technology, policy, governance, and finance realms, that could help accelerate a transition to a more sustainable and prosperous relationship with the ocean. The comprehensive assessments have already informed policy making at the highest levels of government and motivated an impressive array of responsive and ambitious action across a growing network of leaders in business, finance and civil society.

This comprehensive Dictionary brings together an extensive range of definitive terms in ecological economics. Assembling contributions from distinguished scholars, it provides an intellectual map to this evolving subject ranging from the practical to the philosophical. Following an insightful review of the intellectual and organisational origins of this topic by Joan Martínez-Alier, over 1,100 terms are thoroughly defined with their meanings and uses in ecological economics explained. In addition, most of the terms include recommendations for further reading to provide greater context and understanding, alongside citations to allow for further illustration on how a term is used in the field. Encompassing a broad overview of the field, this Dictionary will be a useful reference for students at all levels, alongside faculty and researchers. It will also be an informative resource for government and NGO professionals in environmental conservation to better understand the crucial vocabulary that governs their field.

This volume discusses geological, biological and sustainability aspects of coastal, estuary and lake environments. It offers a comprehensive understanding of biotic, physico-chemical, sedimentological and socio-environmental factors associated with the sustainable development of these environments in areas vulnerable to climate change and other anthropogenic activities. The book is divided into several main sections, covering the geological and biological processes and dynamics of these environments, water quality and hydrological modeling, sediment characteristics, bio-indicators and ecological analysis, climate change impacts, geospatial applications, and sustainable development practices and scenarios. The book aims to be a useful resource for academics, scientists, coastal and marine practitioners, meteorologists, environmental consultants and computing experts working in the areas of earth and ocean sciences.

Conservation of Marine Birds is the first book to outline and synthesize the myriad of threats faced by one of the most imperiled groups of birds on earth. With more than half of all 346 seabird species worldwide experiencing population declines and 29% of species recognized as globally threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the timing to determine solutions to threats could not be more urgent. Written by a diverse team of international experts on marine birds, this book explores the environmental and biogeographical factors that influence seabird conservation and provides concrete recommendations for mounting climate change issues. This book will be an important resource for researchers and conservationists, as well as ecologists and students who want to understand seabirds, the threats they are facing, and tactics to help conserve and protect them. Outlines both threats and solutions in the marine and terrestrial realm Synthesizes information to provide a comprehensive strategy moving forward, especially considering climate change Created by a team of experts with the latest and most comprehensive knowledge of seabird conservation

Ramsar Wetlands: Values, Assessment, Management addresses the approaches, successes and limitations of the Ramsar Convention in a changing world, how recent approaches to wetland monitoring and management can contribute to improving wetland state, what the future holds for wetlands and their wise use, and what the Ramsar Convention needs to do to achieve future successes. The book presents a unique outlook on a range of issues, addressing considerable advances in our understanding of wetlands, their great environmental, social, cultural and economic importance, their role in maintaining the global water-cycle, and in mitigating and adapting to changing climates. No other book has yet taken this broad look at the past, present and future of wetlands and the Ramsar Convention. From aquatic ecologists, environmental scientists and engineers, to water resource managers, conservation agencies, and land management planners, this comprehensive guide is a beneficial tool in understanding wetlands. Answers questions on the responsibilities and roles of signatory nations to the Ramsar Convention, including how it may deal with ongoing and emerging causes of wetland change Addresses ongoing challenges of reporting and managing wetland change Provides a multidisciplinary approach and details the wise use principle that underpins the convention