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Calls for science to innovate by including stakeholders' in the creation of marine knowledge have been rising, to create impact beyond laboratories and to contribute to the empowerment of local communities when interacting with marine and coastal ecosystems. As a transdisciplinary group of scientists working on co-designing research projects, this paper draws upon our experiences to further define the concept and seek to improve the process of co-design. We highlight the key barriers for co-design processes to contribute to increasing stakeholders' capacity to produce intended effects on marine policy. We suggest that stakeholder engagement requires overcoming the resistance to non-scientific knowledge sources and considering power asymmetries in the governance and management of the ocean. We argue that power and politics must be placed at the very heart of the production of a co-designed marine science and must be an aspect of the facilitation itself. In this paper, we aim to provide insights to navigate throughout the journey of stakeholder engagement, with the critical perspective necessary to make this process socially and environmentally effective.

The recovery of degraded marine coasts and the improvement of natural habitats are current issues of vital importance for the development of life, both marine and terrestrial. In this sense, the immersion of artificial reefs (ARs) in the marine environment is a way to stimulate the recovery of these damaged ecosystems. But it is necessary to have a multidisciplinary approach that analyses the materials, designs and construction process of artificial reefs in order to understand their true impact on the environment. For this reason, this paper presents the manufacture of artificial reefs by 3D printing, proposing designs with a combination of prismatic and random shapes, with different external overhangs as well as inner holes. For the definition of the artificial reef designs, criteria provided by marine biologists and the results obtained from a numerical simulation with ANSYS were taken into account, with which the stability of the artificial reefs on the seabed was analysed. Three dosages of cement mortars and three dosages of geopolymer mortars were studied as impression materials. The studies included determination of the rheological properties of the mortars, to define the printability, determination of the cost of the materials used, and determination of the mechanical strength and biological receptivity in prismatic specimens that were immersed in the sea for 3 months. To evaluate the environmental impact of the materials used in the production of the mortars, a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was carried out. In order to choose the mortars that encompassed the best properties studied, Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) was applied and the two best mortars were used for the manufacture of the artificial reefs. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of the 3D printing process used were analysed. The results of the studies carried out in this research show that cement mortars have better characteristics for artificial reef applications using 3D printing, and that the technique applied for the manufacture of the artificial reefs allowed the digital models to be faithfully reproduced. This work has been co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund through the Interreg Atlantic Area Programme, under the project “Artificial Reef 3D Printing for Atlantic Area - 3DPARE” (EAPA_174/2016). Besides, the authors want to thank the following companies for their contribution: Solvay, for supplying the fly ash and sodium hydroxide; BASF, for providing the additives used in the research; Abonomar S.L., for providing the seashells sand; FCC ámbito, for providing the crushed recycled glass and Grupo Cementos Portland Valderribas (Mataporquera plant) for providing the cement.

Limpets (Patella spp.) are marine gastropods that inhabit rocky shores along the coasts of Europe, the Mediterranean, Macaronesia and the north-west coast of Africa. Being considered key species, limpets have an important role regulating algal assemblages in coastal communities. The goal of this work was to evaluate the influence of sea temperature on the respiration rate of four limpet species occurring in mainland Portugal, in line with predictions from the metabolic theory of ecology. The individuals were collected from rocky shores in Portugal and exposed to sea temperatures ranging from 6–28°C for respiration rate assessments. Following the estimation of the relationship between oxygen consumption and temperature the activation energy was calculated. In parallel, low and high thermal thresholds were determined for three of the species. The results indicated that P. ulyssiponensis oxygen consumption increased linearly with sea temperature and the remaining species presented the same tendency. The values of activation energy ranged between 0.33–0.76 eV. For P. ulyssiponensis, the highest activation energy indicated that this species is more sensitive to temperature variations while for the tested temperatures it presented a higher thermal tolerance limit than the other species. Such findings indicate that P. ulyssiponensis is the most susceptible of these species to climate change, in line with the tolerance–plasticity trade-off hypothesis. This work provides a good starting point for understanding the effect of sea temperature on oxygen consumption in Patella spp. and for comprehending sensitivity of limpets to temperature increases under future climate change scenarios.

The increasing number of offshore wind farms (OWFs) proposed off the Brazilian coast is a biodiversity management challenge that needs to be addressed with strategic and targeted environmental impact assessments. The effects of OWFs on birds are much better studied in the northern than southern hemisphere. Knowledge of species distributions is key to developing effective conservation strategies. Ecological niche modeling can support strategic siting decisions and identify the target species for which mitigation of the impacts of OWFs may be required. We used the maximum entropy algorithm (MaxEnt) for modeling species niche suitability, incorporating environmental variables and presence-only data from tracking and at-sea surveys for seven albatrosses and petrels, of which five are threatened by extinction. We used the predicted niche suitability index (NSI) to calculate niche overlaps, assess distribution patterns and generate spatial prioritizations across seasons based on a species richness index (RI). Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross Thalassarche chlororhynchos, Atlantic Petrel Pterodroma incerta, and Great Shearwater Ardenna gravis were selected as target species for monitoring in Brazilian shallow waters (0–200 m depth) in the warm season, and Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross and White-chinned Petrel Procellaria aequinoctialis in the cold season. The RI was higher in waters between 200 m and 1000 m depth, a preferred area for OWFs with floating foundations. We advocate for the incorporation of niche models in environmental impact studies, as a tool for improving conservation, environmental planning, and impact assessment.

This study focusses on the valorization of the red seaweed Mastocarpus stellatus, collected in the Northern coast of Portugal, as a natural source of high value compounds due to its beneficial properties. An annual monitoring of the seaweed was performed by determining its lipids, ash, carbohydrates, phycobiliproteins, total phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity and carrageenan from three different rocky shores located in the north of Portugal. The results showed a seasonal and spatial variability of the studied compounds between October 2018 and September 2019 depending on the climatic variables of temperature, precipitation, and solar radiation. The most productive season coincided with the warmest months, except for carbohydrates and phycobiliproteins, which were promoted in the colder season. The spatial variation also could be explained by the proximity to water channel discharges at the sampling sites. Complementary studies on the carrageenan fraction were conducted in one of the shores due to the high biopolymer content, to determine their carrageenan proportion between the summer and winter period and establish their rheological capabilities for the formulation of gelling matrices. The extracted biopolymers exhibited typical structural and viscoelastic characteristics of kappa/iota-hybrid carrageenans, suggesting notably differences depending on the harvest season, which is critically relevant to define future applications. Agencia Estatal de Investigación | Ref. RYC2018-024454-I Xunta de Galicia | Ref. ED431F 2020/01 Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia | Ref. UIDP/04423/2020 Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia | Ref. UIDB/04423/2020 Universidade de Vigo/CISUG

This study reviews the status of Marine Biodiversity Monitoring in the European Union (EU) and its adjacent waters building on work by EuropaBON, EuroSea and other projects. The study established definitions of the approaches used in the EU for marine biodiversity monitoring and identified 220 stakeholders, representing 22 EU countries. Subsequently, 647 distinct biodiversity monitoring programmes that undertook consistent sampling in EU marine waters were identified, and the employed and/or emerging methodologies used were summarized. A total of 41 data collection frameworks and portals were identified and categorized, 14 of which cover Europe. Research projects were also contemplated and following a review of approximately 600 research projects, 95 were found to be relevant and further analyzed. Overall, we identified significant marine biodiversity monitoring efforts across the EU but also mismatched in the spatial/taxonomic distribution and scale of effort. These gaps need to be addressed to achieve a comprehensive EU-wide marine biodiversity monitoring system, which outputs should follow the FAIR principles. We recommend drawing on the results of this study to establish a more coordinated effort of marine biodiversity monitoring in Europe, in collaboration with ongoing efforts by EuropaBON, MBON, GOOS and the European initiative for Ocean Observation. Files: MarBioME Final Report to the European Commission. Overview and assessment of the current state of Marine Biodiversity Monitoring in the European Union and adjacent marine waters (RTD/2021/MV/11). MarBioME Executive Summary to the European Commission. Overview and assessment of the current state of Marine Biodiversity Monitoring in the European Union and adjacent marine waters (RTD/2021/MV/11). MarBioME Résumé Excecutif pour la Commission Européenne. Aperçu et évaluation de l'état actuel de la surveillance de la biodiversité marine dans l'Union Européenne et les eaux marines adjacentes (RTD/2021/MV/11). Annexe 1. Task 1. The terminology used and a brief historic framework Overview of definitions of marine biodiversity monitoring, description of the current state of implementation of marine monitoring in the EU and its organisational and technical set-up (Word doc). Annexe 2. Task 1. MarBioME Stakeholders database Mapping of actors involved in marine biodiversity monitoring in the EU is available in the form of Excel tables. Annexe 3. Task 1. MarBioME Geospatial information Mapping of actors involved in marine biodiversity monitoring in the EU structured in shapefile format, a simple and non-topological format for storing the geometric location information and the attributes of the geographic features related to the task. Annexe 4. Task 2. Monitoring Programmes Analysis of the spatial and temporal monitoring coverage of marine species and habitats in the EU, according to identified monitoring programs (Excel Sheet). Annexe 5. Task 2. Interactive Map App According to identified monitoring programs, map with a georeferenced analysis of the spatial and temporal monitoring coverage of marine species and habitats in the EU. Annexe 6. Task 2. Spreadsheet linking script with a readme Programme design metadata and accompanying spatial data are presented in filterable linked spreadsheets. Annexe 7. Task 2. European subset of BioTIME database European subset of time-series biodiversity database. Annexe 8. Task 3. Monitoring Standard Operating Procedures Summary of the marine biodiversity monitoring methodologies and protocols currently employed in the EU as well as emerging methods and technologies, according to identified monitoring programs (Excel sheet). Annexe 9. Task 3. Programme methods Detailed methodologies provided by individual EU countries, available in Word doc. Annexe 10. Task 4. Data Collection Frameworks Summary of marine biodiversity data collection frameworks and databases that integrate the outputs of European monitoring programmes, available in an Excel sheet. Annexe 11. Task 5. Research Projects Excel spreadsheet with an analysis of biodiversity monitoring research projects in the EU, including involved actors; spatio-temporal distribution; monitored taxa groups and ecosystems and project objectives addressed. Annexe 12. Task 7. Data extraction of Research Projects Comprehensive analysis and identification of research gaps (spatial, temporal and taxonomic) in the current marine biodiversity monitoring in the EU, in the form of a table overview. &nbsp

The use of seaweed as a source of bioactive extracts has received increased attention from the market in recent years—particularly for nutraceutical applications. In this context, this study evaluated the nutraceutical application of seaweed biomass and extracts from three seaweeds from Portugal: Ulva sp., Laminaria ochroleuca, and Chondrus crispus. For each of the said seaweeds, four different extracts were obtained using GRAS solvents—acetone (A), ethanol (E), ethanol–water (1:1) (EW), and one polysaccharide-rich extract (P) using water and further precipitation with ethanol. The bioactive potential of the extracts was assessed in terms of antioxidant capacity (ABTS•+, DPPH•, •NO, O2•− scavenging, and ORAC-FL assay) and anti-inflammatory capacity (COX inhibition and human red blood cell membrane stabilisation). Furthermore, the biochemical profile was determined for the raw biomass and extracts to better comprehend their possible applications as nutraceuticals. The results show that all extracts have antioxidant potential. Five extracts (L. ochroleuca E, EW, and P and Ulva sp. E and P) showed anti-inflammatory capacity. Overall, L. ochroleuca EW extract exhibited the most promising potential as both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and is an interesting candidate nutraceutical ingredient.

In the Mediterranean Sea, brown macroalgae represent the dominant species in intertidal and subtidal habitats. Despite conservation efforts, these canopy-forming species showed a dramatic decline, highlighting the urge for active intervention to regenerate self-sustaining populations. For this reason, the restoration of macroalgae forests through transplantation has been recognized as a promising approach. However, the potential stress caused by the handling of thalli has never been assessed. Here, we used a manipulative approach to assess the transplant-induced stress in the Mediterranean Ericaria amentacea, through the analysis of biochemical proxies, i.e., phenolic compounds, lipids, and fatty acids in both transplanted and natural macroalgae over time. The results showed that seasonal environmental variability had an important effect on the biochemical composition of macroalgae, suggesting the occurrence of acclimation responses to summer increased temperature and light irradiance. Transplant-induced stress appears to have only amplified the biochemical response, probably due to increased sensitivity of the macroalgae already subjected to mechanical and osmotic stress (e.g., handling, wounding, desiccation). The ability of E. amentacea to cope with both environmental and transplant-induced stress highlights the high plasticity of the species studied, as well as the suitability of transplantation of adult thalli to restore E. amentacea beds.

Marine Life 2030 is a programme endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (the Ocean Decade) to establish a globally coordinated system that delivers knowledge of ocean life to those who need it, promoting human well-being, sustainable development, and ocean conservation. It is an open network to unite existing and new programmes into a co-designed, global framework to share information on methods, standards, observations, and applications. Goals include realizing interoperable information and transforming the observation and forecasting of marine life for the benefit of all people. Co-design, sharing local capacity, and coordination between users of ocean resources across regions is fundamental to enable sustainable use and conservation. A novel, bottom-up networking structure is now engaging members of the ocean community to address local issues, with Marine Life 2030 facilitating the linkage between groups across different regions to meet the challenges of the Ocean Decade. A variety of metrics, including those proposed by the Group on Earth Observations, will be used to track the success of the co-design process.

The non-material aspects of nature are frequently the most socially valued and demanded nature’s contributions to people (NCP). This is because non-material NCP often lay the foundations of key human well-being dimensions such as identities, experiences, and capabilities. Yet, while research on material NCP such as food and water abound, studies of non-material NCP are relatively scarce. This research gap results in a limited understanding of the relationships between non-material NCP and human well-being, especially in the marine and coastal environment. To understand the relationships between non-material NCP and subjective human well-being, we surveyed 453 users of Litoral Norte—a multiple-use marine protected area in Portugal. Our survey included 16 statement indicators reflecting theoretical constructs of subjective well-being. Using factor analysis, we found that subjective well-being derived from relating to, interacting with, and experiencing marine and coastal sites can be grouped into four interpretable cultural dimensions of well-being. These dimensions are ‘engagement with nature & health’, ‘sense of place’, ‘solitude in nature’, and ‘spirituality’. We also found statistically significant differences in reported levels of the four dimensions of well-being. Reported levels of well-being varied with interviewees’ socio-economic characteristics and environmental behaviour. Our findings offer interesting insights for marine conservation practice and policy that aims to foster both biodiversity and human well-being.

Vestigial organs are historical echoes of past phenotypes. Determining whether a specific organ constitutes a functional or vestigial structure can be a challenging task, given that distinct levels of atrophy may arise between and within lineages. The mammalian pineal gland, an endocrine organ involved in melatonin biorhythmicity, represents a classic example, often yielding contradicting anatomical observations. In Xenarthra (sloths, anteaters and armadillos), a peculiar mammalian order, the presence of a distinct pineal organ was clearly observed in some species (i.e. Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth) but undetected in other closely related species (i.e. brown-throated sloth). In the nine-banded armadillo, contradicting evidence supports either functional or vestigial scenarios. Thus, to untangle the physiological status of the pineal gland in Xenarthra, we used a genomic approach to investigate the evolution of the gene hub responsible for melatonin synthesis and signaling. We show that both synthesis and signaling compartments are eroded and were lost independently. Additionally, by expanding our analysis to 157 mammal genomes we offer a comprehensive view showing that species with very distinctive habitats and lifestyles have convergently evolved a similar phenotype: Cetacea, Pholidota, Dermoptera, Sirenia and Xenarthra. Our findings suggest that the recurrent inactivation of melatonin genes correlates with pineal atrophy, and endorse the use of genomic analyses to ascertain the physiological status of suspected vestigial structures.

In the Mediterranean Sea, brown macroalgae represent the dominant species in intertidal and subtidal habitats. Despite conservation efforts, these canopy-forming species showed a dramatic decline, highlighting the urge for active intervention to regenerate self-sustaining populations. For this reason, the restoration of macroalgae forests through transplantation has been recognized as a promising approach. However, the potential stress caused by the handling of thalli has never been assessed. Here, we used a manipulative approach to assess the transplant-induced stress in the Mediterranean

Las algas rojas coralinas conforman un grupo bentónico diverso en el noroeste ibérico, el cual ha sido revisitado en el contexto de una reciente tesis doctoral. En el presente trabajo, se aportan datos para 22 especies, siendo 9 de ellas (Harveylithon samoënse, Hydrolithon boreale, H. cf. sargassi, Lithophyllum cf. crouaniorum, Pneophyllum cf. confervicola, P. coronatum, P. cf. limitatum, P. cf. myriocarpum y Titanoderma pustulatum var. confine) nuevas citas para Galicia. Por otra parte, las 8 especies Hydrolithon boreale, Lithophyllum bathyporum. L. cf. crouaniorum, Mesophyllum expansum, Pneophyllum cf. myriocarpum, Titanoderma corallinae, T. laminariae y T. pustulatum var. confine son novedad para Portugal continental y Phymatolithon lamii para norte de Portugal. Paralelamente, se dan a conocer 14 nuevas citas provinciales y 8 segundas citas provinciales. También se excluye Lithophyllum duckerae y Phymatolithon purpureum de la flora del Atlántico ibérico.

Microalgae have shown a great potential as a source of bioactive compounds, such lipidic compounds as fatty acids and carotenoids, with recognized benefit for human health. Their synthesis is directly affected by culturing conditions, but, as photosynthetic organisms, microalgae are greatly influenced by light, particularly light quality and irradiance, responsible for growth regulation and activation of biochemical pathways. Therefore, the aim of this work was to maximize biomass and high added-value compound productivity by Scenedesmus obliquus M2-1, using different light irradiances of two previously selected light sources for the production of antioxidant compounds: monochromatic red light (R) and a mixture of 40% of blue and 60% of red light (BR). Four irradiances (50, 100, 150, and 200 μmolphotons m−2 s−1) were accordingly evaluated for both light sources, upon productivity of biomass, fatty acids, carotenoids, and total antioxidant compounds. Changes in light quality and irradiance influenced these aforementioned productivities. Optimal condition for biomass productivity was 150 μmolphotons m−2 s−1, regardless light quality, for both sources. On the other hand, when the production targets carotenoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and/or total antioxidant capacity, the optimal condition was found to be at 200 μmolphotons m−2 s−1 under BR light.

Cycling of organic carbon in the ocean has the potential to mitigate or exacerbate global climate change, but major questions remain about the environmental controls on organic carbon flux in the coastal zone. Here, we used a field experiment distributed across 28° of latitude, and the entire range of 2 dominant kelp species in the northern hemisphere, to measure decomposition rates of kelp detritus on the seafloor in relation to local environmental factors. Detritus decomposition in both species were strongly related to ocean temperature and initial carbon content, with higher rates of biomass loss at lower latitudes with warmer temperatures. Our experiment showed slow overall decomposition and turnover of kelp detritus and modeling of coastal residence times at our study sites revealed that a significant portion of this production can remain intact long enough to reach deep marine sinks. The results suggest that decomposition of these kelp species could accelerate with ocean warming and that low-latitude kelp forests could experience the greatest increase in remineralization with a 9% to 42% reduced potential for transport to long-term ocean sinks under short-term (RCP4.5) and long-term (RCP8.5) warming scenarios. However, slow decomposition at high latitudes, where kelp abundance is predicted to expand, indicates potential for increasing kelp-carbon sinks in cooler (northern) regions. Our findings reveal an important latitudinal gradient in coastal ecosystem function that provides an improved capacity to predict the implications of ocean warming on carbon cycling. Broad-scale patterns in organic carbon decomposition revealed here can be used to identify hotspots of carbon sequestration potential and resolve relationships between carbon cycling processes and ocean climate at a global scale.

This review of trends in inland saline lakes of Europe and Central Asia is based on the relevant section of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPB...

14 pages, 7 figures, 2 tables.-- This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited., Aim To describe distribution patterns and species richness of cetaceans along a wide geographical range using occurrence data coupled with survey effort, from poorly studied oceanic areas. Specific objectives were to compare species richness and relative abundances among sub‐regions and to describe the distribution of each species. Location Eastern North Atlantic. Time period 2012–2017. Major taxa studied Cetacea. Methods Cetacean monitoring was performed by dedicated observers from cargo ships, used as platforms of opportunity, along routes between Iberian Peninsula, Macaronesia and north‐western Africa. We mapped relative abundance (encounter rates), survey effort and species richness. We examined the dependence of the number of sightings and species richness on survey effort. The area was divided into sub‐regions (according to the Exclusive Economic Zones and international waters), and relative abundances of the eight most frequently sighted species, as well as species richness, were compared among them. In addition, we describe the distribution of each species in relation to sea depth, distance to coast, latitude and longitude. Results A total of 1,989 sightings were logged, and 26 cetacean species were identified. Species richness and relative abundances of the eight most common species differed substantially between sub‐regions. Common and bottlenose dolphins distributed in shallow coastal waters contrasting with the oceanic distribution of Stenella dolphins. Cuvier's beaked whale and minke whale had similar distributions. Pilot and sperm whales were distributed in southern waters. Main conclusions A considerable amount of survey effort was needed to attain reliable estimates of species richness. In less surveyed areas, species richness and abundance are likely to be underestimated. The offshore waters presented high species richness and several hotspots of cetacean abundance. This work provides new knowledge on cetacean distribution at a large scale in the eastern North Atlantic, relevant to future conservation management, Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, Grant/Award Number: SFRH/BD/100606/2014

Nucleic acid-derived indices such as RNA/DNA ratios have been successfully applied as ecophysiological indicators to assess growth, nutritional condition and health status in marine organisms given that they provide a measure of tissue protein reserves, which is known to vary depending on changes in the environment. Yet, the use of these biochemical indices on highly mobile large predators is scarce. In this study, we tested the applicability of using nucleic acids to provide insights on the ecophysiological traits of two marine mammal species (common bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales) and explored potential related factors (species, sex, season, and residency pattern), using skin tissue (obtained from biopsy darts) of apparently healthy and adult free-ranging animals. Significantly higher RNA/DNA ratios were obtained for bottlenose dolphins (p

Nowadays, coastal urbanization is one of the most serious and prevalent pressures on marine ecosystems, impacting their biodiversity. The objective of this study was to explore differences in attributes and biodiversity associated with an intertidal ecosystem engineer, the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck, 1819 between urban and non-urban shores. For this, mussel attributes and their associated macrofauna were compared between urban and non-urban rocky shores in the north of Portugal. Results showed that the largest sized mussels were more frequent on urban shores, whereas the smallest size class was only present in non-urban shores. Regarding macrofauna associated with mussels, the number of taxa was significantly higher on non-urban shores. Moreover, the structure of the macrobenhic assemblages was significantly different between urban and non-urban shores. Most important taxa responsible for differences were more abundant on non-urban shores except for Nucella lapillus, Idotea pelagica and Oligochaeta that were more abundant on urban shores. Therefore, our results showed that the mussel size frequency and the structure of the associated macrobenthic assemblages changed in urban shores. Considering the relevance of mussel beds for biodiversity and human well-being, our results indicate the need of adopting proper management plans to minimize these effects on urban intertidal ecosystems.

12 pages, 4 tables, 4 figures.-- This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, Long-term monitoring datasets are fundamental to understand physical and ecological responses to environmental changes, supporting management and conservation. The data should be reliable, with the sources of bias identified and quantified. CETUS Project is a cetacean monitoring programme in the Eastern North Atlantic, based on visual methods of data collection. This study aims to assess data quality and bias in the CETUS dataset, by 1) applying validation methods, through photographic confirmation of species identification; 2) creating data quality criteria to evaluate the observer’s experience; and 3) assessing bias to the number of sightings collected and to the success in species identification. Through photographic validation, the species identification of 10 sightings was corrected and a new species was added to the CETUS dataset. The number of sightings collected was biased by external factors, mostly by sampling effort but also by weather conditions. Ultimately, results highlight the importance of identifying and quantifying data bias, while also yielding guidelines for data collection and processing, relevant for species monitoring programmes based on visual methods, CETUS programme was partially conducted within OBSERVA.PT (ref: MAR-01.04.02-FEAMP-0002), supported by the EU FEDER/FEMP and Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT, Portugal) under the Portugal2020 (Lisboa2020, Algarve2020, and MAR2020) Programme; and by the ATLANTIDA project (ref. NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000040), supported by the Norte Portugal Regional Operational Programme (NORTE 2020), under the PORTUGAL 2020 Partnership Agreement and through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Three Ph.D. fellowships for authors Ana M Correia (SFRH/BD/100606/2014), Ágatha Gil (PD/BD/150603/2020), and Raul Valente (SFRH/BD/144786/2019) were granted by FCT under the auspices of Programa Operacional Regional Norte (PORN), supported by the European Social Fund (ESF) and Portuguese funds (MECTES)

Seaweeds such as Ascophyllum nodosum are essential components of coastal ecosystems, being frequently relevant both ecologically and economically. The current increasing demand for seaweed biomass must be compatible with sustainable management practices of these resources. This study aims to provide supporting evidence for the establishment of management plans for “edge populations” (at their distributional limits) with commercial interest using, as a model, the southernmost population of A. nodosum in Europe (which occurs on the northern coast of Portugal). In this study, standing stock, biomass renewal and seasonal and spatial patterns of occurrence of this Ascophyllum unexploited population were assessed in order to evaluate harvesting potential. A total of 16 patchily distributed and variable sized beds, covering an area of 112,126 m2, were delimited during late summer/autumn of 2016, providing a standing stock of 30,952.12 kgdw. The abundance of these populations was stable over time (2005–2010), although small-scale spatial variations and changes in individual biomass due to seasonal loss could be identified. However, the potential biomass renewal as estimated for this whole population was 290.3 kgdw year−1, representing only 0.94% of the calculated standing stock. Based on these results, the importance of considering the population’s renewal potential is highlighted in addition to individual phenotypic traits when managing harvesting. Specifically, given the vulnerability and ecological relevance of the studied population, the recommendation herein is to avoid harvesting of this species at its southernmost location in Europe.

Reservoirs are dynamic ecosystems subject to different pressures that influence and compromise their ecological structure. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of using the macroinvertebrate to assess the water quality of four reservoirs (one site in Miranda—M and Pocinho—P; four sites in Aguieira—Ag1 to Ag4; and five sites in Alqueva—Al1 to Al5). The sites were sampled in autumn 2018 (A18), spring and autumn 2019 (S19 and A19) and spring 2020 (S20). In situ physical and chemical parameters were measured and a sample of water and macroinvertebrate were collected for further analyses. Total phosphorus exceeded the allowed concentrations (maximum values recorded: M—0.13 mg/L, P—0.09 mg/L, Ag3—0.22 mg/L and Al5—0.18 mg/L). Total abundance varied between 4 and 3088. Taxonomic richness was always low, between 1 and 12 taxa. The highest Shannon–Wiener value (1.91) was recorded in Ag1_A18 and Al2_A18. Pielou’s evenness varied widely across all reservoirs, from 0.06 to 0.92. Almost all the organisms found were associated with polluted water, according to the index ratings. Organisms tolerant of disturbances (e.g., Chironomidae and Oligochaeta) were associated with sites with the worst water quality, according to the Water Framework Directive (WFD), (M, Ag3, Ag4 and Al5) while organisms with moderate tolerance to disturbances (e.g., Cordullidae and Polycentropodidae) were associated with sites with better water quality (P, Ag1, Ag2 and Al1 to Al4). The macrozoobenthos index (MZB) used proved to be a sensitive tool to Portuguese reservoirs, corroborating most of the results obtained in the remaining analyses, as well as providing a clear ecological potential complementing the analysis carried out by the WFD. Based on this, the macroinvertebrate community appeared to be sensitive and able to characterize the reservoirs’ water quality.

During high tide, macroalgae are submersed, facing adequate environmental conditions, however, at low tide, these species can be exposed to high UV radiation and desiccation, leading to an overproduction of reactive oxygen species, causing oxidative stress. Since intertidal organisms present differential sensitivity to abiotic fluctuations, this study aimed to evaluate the physiological responses [photosynthetic pigments, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), lipid peroxidation (LP), and thiols and proline] of three macroalgae, from different intertidal levels, towards tidal regimes. Samples of Pelvetia canaliculata, Ascophyllum nodosum, and Fucus serratus were collected from beaches located on the southern limit of distribution in periods of potential stress (Summer and Spring), under low and high tide. The photosynthetic pigments of P. canaliculata and F. serratus were generally higher during low tide, and the oxidative damage evidenced by H2O2 and LP increased in the Summer, while A. nodosum showed greater oxidative damage in the Spring. While thiol content did not change, proline levels were species- and tidal-specific among sampling dates. P. canaliculata presented higher resilience to unfavorable conditions, while F. serratus was the most sensitive species. The physiological responses analyzed were species-specific, pointing to the high susceptibility of low intertidal organisms to expected extreme climatic events.

Accurate species identification often relies on public repositories to compare the barcode sequences of the investigated individual(s) with taxonomically assigned sequences. However, the accuracy of identifications in public repositories is often questionable, and the names originally given are rarely updated. For instance, species of the Sea Lettuce (Ulva spp.; Ulvophyceae, Ulvales, Ulvaceae) are frequently misidentified in public repositories, including herbaria and gene banks, making species identification based on traditional barcoding unreliable. We DNA barcoded 295 individual distromatic foliose strains of Ulva from the North-East Atlantic for three loci (rbcL, tufA, ITS1). Seven distinct species were found, and we compared our results with all worldwide Ulva spp. sequences present in the NCBI database for the three barcodes rbcL, tufA and the ITS1. Our results demonstrate a large degree of species misidentification, where we estimate that 24%–32% of the entries pertaining to foliose species are misannotated and provide an exhaustive list of NCBI sequences reannotations. An analysis of the global distribution of registered samples from foliose species also indicates possible geographical isolation for some species, and the absence of U.lactuca from Northern Europe. We extended our analytical framework to three other genera, Fucus, Porphyra and Pyropia and also identified erroneously labelled accessions and possibly new synonymies, albeit less than for Ulva spp. Altogether, exhaustive taxonomic clarification by aggregation of a library of barcode sequences highlights misannotations and delivers an improved representation of species diversity and distribution.

Continental Portugal and its two archipelagos (Azores Islands and Madeira Islands) present a very interesting and diverse seaweed community. Its great diversity results for example from different environmental conditions such as the latitudinal gradients that affect the continental Portugal coastal shoreline in unique ways. The first Portuguese phycological studies published date from the end of the 18th century and seaweeds have been harvested to be used as fertilizer since at least the 14th century. However, Portuguese seaweeds are still a natural and valuable resource that is relatively under explored or studied, particularly regarding its economic potential. Although Portugal was one of the world’s main agar producers in the past, the sustainability of its seaweed exploitation was overlooked. Contemporary awareness of this valuable resource might bring together role players such as researchers and industries towards innovative and sustainable practices (such as to make use of non-indigenous species that have been registered in the country). Nowadays, almost all Portuguese higher education institutions currently have research groups dedicated to studies related to seaweeds (ranging from ecological and environmental assessment studies to seaweed aquaculture, uses and applications). This work addresses the diversity of Portuguese seaweeds and its main economic aspects.

Implementation of open sea seaweed aquaculture has been pursued in Europe for high biomass production to be used for different purposes, including the biorefinery pipeline. Offshore cultiva...

15 pages, 8 figures, 3 tables, The eastern North Atlantic (ENA) has many highly productive areas where several species of cetaceans have been recorded, with the common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) being one of the most frequently sighted species. However, its spatial and temporal distribution in high seas is poorly known. The study presents the results from 5 years of cetacean monitoring in the ENA (2012–2016) aboard cargo ships that follow the routes from Continental Portugal to the Macaronesian archipelagos and north-west Africa. Common dolphin was the most frequently sighted cetacean with 192 occurrences registered on effort and an overall encounter rate of 0.36 sightings/100 nmi. The species was distributed in coastal and offshore waters, but absent from the Canaries and Cape Verde islands. Statistical ‘habitat’ models were developed to describe and explain the occurrence of sightings of the species: variables affecting detection of dolphins had a small impact and there were clear spatiotemporal distribution patterns, influenced to some degree by environmental variables. Predicted probability of occurrence was highest in coastal waters of continental Portugal and around the Azores. The models, combined with maps of distribution, were useful to identify important areas for the species, which could be the focus of future conservation efforts. Common dolphin presence was related to depth, distance to coast and seamounts, seabed slope, chlorophyll concentration, sea-surface temperature and sea level anomalies; the possible ecological significance of these relationships is explored, This study was conducted within a PhD programme from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto, Portugal, hosted by the Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR – Porto, Portugal) and funded by the Portuguese national funding agency for science, research and technology (FCT) under the grant SFRH/BD/100606/2014. CETUS Project is led by CIIMAR | University of Porto in partnership with the cargo ship company TRANSINSULAR | ETE Group

The Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas is among the most frequently cultured aquaculture species worldwide. In bivalve aquaculture, some environmental factors may induce the production of Reactive Species of Oxygen (ROS) that besides causing injuries to several vital cellular components, may lead to inflammatory processes. Usually, antioxidant enzymes of bivalves defense systems have an important role in the diminution of harmful effects of ROS. However sometimes it is not enough to restore the oxidative balance, being required an additional action of external antioxidant compounds. Knowing that biochemical composition of the diets may influence the physiology of bivalves, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different ratios of microalgae and macroalgae on the oxidative stress responses during broodstock conditioning of C. gigas. Seven hundred and twenty oysters were divided in four dietary groups (3 tanks/diet; 60 oysters/tank). Each group was fed with one of the following diets: 100% macroalgae (Ulva rigida) (Diet 1); 50% macroalgae +50% live microalgae blend (Diet 2); 25% macroalgae +75% microalgae blend (Diet 3); or 100% microalgae blend (Diet 4). The microalgae blend comprised 33% Tisochrysis lutea and 66% diatoms (75% Skeletonema costatum + 25% Chaetoceros calcitrans). To assess diets effectiveness in the reduction of oysters oxidative stress, antioxidant capacity of the diets and the oxidative stress responses of the oysters were determined. The ABTS+ , DPPH , ORAC, O2 − and −NO assays were performed on diets to characterize their antioxidant capacity; Moreover, a possible anti-inflammatory effect of diets was assessed via human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization by heat induced assay. Catalase, lipid peroxidation, glutathione S-transferase and total and oxidized glutathione were quantified in the oysters to evaluate the dietary effects on the oxidative stress responses. Flesh weight of oysters fed Diet 3 and 4 was significantly higher than oysters fed with diets 1 and 2 (P ≤ .001). Results revealed that a 25% macroalgae and 75% microalgae blend (Diet 3) was the most effective dietary formulation in decreasing the oxidative stress, in terms of TG levels during the broodstock conditioning of the Pacific oysters, and in terms of NO and O2 −; also exhibiting a potential anti-inflammatory effect. An additional advantage in supplementing 25% of Ulva rigida is the reduction of microalgae production costs during the broodstock conditioning of Pacific oysters.

While the life cycle and conditions affecting most species in the genus Laminaria are quite thoroughly studied, little is known about Laminaria ochroleuca, the main forest forming perennial kelp species of Southern Europe. Growth, recruitment, and reproduction of L. ochroleuca were recorded in the field on a monthly basis during one year, in 2013, while sporulation induction experiments were performed in the laboratory to study reproduction triggers, in 2013 and 2014. In the field, L. ochroleuca individuals were followed at 4 different locations and divided into two stages: recruits, too small to become reproductive, and adults. Recruitment was observable year round, except for winter (January and December), peaking in early summer (around June), and preceding peak reproduction by about two months. Reproduction occurred from mid spring to early winter (April to December), peaking in late summer (August-September). Maximum relative elongation rate (RER) occurred between late winter and early summer (from February to June) for adults and between late winter and late summer (from February to August) for recruits. The two stages followed a similar pattern, with recruits occasionally elongating significantly faster. RER was similar for non-reproductive individuals and those undergoing sporogenesis, which disagrees with an inhibitory effect of meristem activity on sporogenesis reported for other kelp species. Laboratory sporogenesis trials confirmed these observations and further showed that sori developed independently of blocking the transport of the putative sporogenesis inhibitor released by the active meristem. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms controlling sporogenesis in this species.

This paper deals with the evolution monitoring of biomass colonization and mechanical properties of 3D printed eco-materials/mortars immersed in the sea. Measurements of tensile strength, compressive strength, and Young’s modulus were determined on samples deployed along the Atlantic coast of Europe, in France, United Kingdom, Spain, and Portugal. The samples were manufactured using 3D printing, where six mix designs with a low environmental impact binder were used. These mortars were based on geopolymer and cementitious binders (Cement CEM III), in which sand is replaced by three types of recycled sand, including glass, seashell, and limestone by 30%, 50%, and 100% respectively. The colonization of concrete samples by micro/macro-organisms and their durability were also evaluated after 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months of immersion. The results showed that both biomass colonization and mechanical properties were better with CEM III compared to geopolymer-based compositions. Therefore, the mixed design optimized according to mechanical properties show that the use of CEM III should be preferred over these geopolymer binders in 3D printed concrete for artificial reef applications. Funding was provided by Interreg Atlantic area through the project EAPA_174/2016- 3DPARE-Artificial Reef 3D Printing for Atlantic area granted to the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto; Bournemouth University; ESITC—École Supérieure d’Ingénieurs des Travaux de la Construction de Caen; University of Cantabria; and IPMA—Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera. Other supports were provided by MARE (FCT/MCTES–UIDB/04292/2020), by CIIMAR (FCT/MCTES–UIDB/04423/2020 and UIDP/04423/2020), and by the project LA/P/0069/2020 granted to the Associate Laboratory ARNET.

16 pages, 2 figures, 2 tables.-- This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY), Data on species occurrence at the scale of their distributional range and the determination of their habitat use requirements are essential to support conservation and define management plans that account for their habitat requirements. For wide-ranging species, such as cetaceans, especially considering that their marine habitats include offshore areas, collection of such data is challenging. In the absence of dedicated surveys, alternative methodologies are needed, such as the use of data collected from platforms of opportunity and modelling techniques to predict distribution in unsurveyed areas. Using 6 years of cetacean occurrence data collected along cargo ship routes between the Iberian Peninsula, northwestern African coasts and the Macaronesian islands, we developed ecological niche models to assess habitat preferences and predict suitable habitats of the eight most frequently sighted cetacean taxa in the area. Explanatory variables used for model fitting included topographic, oceanographic, detectability, geographic and seasonal features. To provide a robust habitat characterisation, along with predictions of habitat suitability, making best use of occurrence datasets, we applied two modelling techniques, GAM and Maxent, which offer complementary strengths. Coastal areas provide important habitats for common and bottlenose dophins, while other dolphin species (spotted and striped dolphins) have a more oceanic distribution. The predicted niches of Cuvier’s beaked whale and minke whales are mainly in the high seas at northern latitudes. Suitable habitats for sperm whales and pilot whales are mostly in southern areas in continental slope regions. For all the species, models indicated that areas around seamount features offer suitable habitats, likely of high relevance in oligotrophic offshore waters. As such, dedicated survey effort in such areas would facilitate development and implementation of appropriate management plans, which are currently lacking. Our models offer an important contribution to baseline knowledge of cetacean distribution at basin-scale in the region and could support the definition of priority areas, monitoring plans, and conservation measures, essential to comply with the requirements of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive, This study was conducted within the Ph.D. program of AC, from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto, Portugal, hosted by the Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR—Porto, Portugal) and funded by the Portuguese national funding agency for science, research and technology (FCT) under the grant SFRH/BD/100606/2014. Two Ph.D. fellowships for authors AG (PD/BD/150603/2020) and RV (SFRH/BD/144786/2019) were granted by Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT, Portugal) under the auspices of Programa Operacional Regional Norte (PORN), supported by the European Social Fund (ESF) and Portuguese funds (MECTES). NS was supported by a CEEC2017 contract (CEECIND/02213/2017)

Protection, restoration, and regeneration of aquatic habitats are an increasingly important issue and are requiring intensive research. In the marine environment, artificial reefs may be deployed to help offset habitat loss, increase local biodiversity and stimulate the recovery of ecosystems. This study aimed at the fabrication of artificial reefs by 3D printing. In the framework of the European INTERREG Atlantic Area collaborative project “3DPARE”, six printed concrete formulations with limited environmental impact, based on geopolymer or cement CEM III binders and recycled sands, were immersed in the Atlantic along British, French, Portuguese and Spanish coasts. The colonisation of the concrete samples by micro- and macroorganisms and their durability were assessed after 1, 3 and 6 months of immersion. Results showed that both parameters were better with CEM III compared to geopolymer-based formulations. Therefore the use of CEM III should be prioritised over these geopolymer binders in 3D printed concrete for artificial reef applications.

Artificial reefs have been deployed in multiple regions of the world for different purposes including habitat restoration and protection, biodiversity and fish stock enhancement, fisheries management and recreation. Artificial reefs can be a valuable tool for ecosystem protection and rehabilitation, helping mitigate the effects of anthropogenic impacts that we face today. However, knowledge on artificial reefs is unevenly distributed worldwide, with some regions having much more quality information available and published (e.g. European Mediterranean Sea area), while others, for instance the North-East Atlantic area, do not. Here, we provide a characterization of purposely built artificial reefs in North-East Atlantic area based on all available literature (i.e. research papers and reports), highlighting the needs and gaps that are vital for establishing future perspectives for artificial reef deployment and research. In the North-East Atlantic area, sixty-one purposely built artificial reefs have been deployed since 1970, mostly between the years 1990–2009, with Spain being the country with the highest number of artificial reefs. The most reported purpose for their deployment is fisheries productivity and habitat/species protection, although, most artificial reefs are multipurpose in order to maximise the benefits of a given financial investment. The majority of artificial reefs were submerged at < 50 m, mainly between 10 and 20 m of depth. The most used designs were cubic blocks and complex designs made by an array of combined shapes, which mostly consist of concrete (79%). From all the analysed data on artificial reefs, 67% of the cases reported surveys to assess biodiversity after the deployment. However, in 26% of those cases, data was not available. When data was available, only 31% of cases reported long-term biomonitoring surveys (3 years or more). Based upon these findings, we noticed a general lack of scientifically robust data, including records of species and abundance of both fish and invertebrates, as well as macroalgae, preventing an adequate determination of the best balance between shape, construction material and bio-colonization. Critiques and suggestions are discussed in the light of currently available data in order to perform more efficient research, evaluation and functioning of future artificial reefs. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

To assess the ecological potential (EP), the Water Framework Directive (WFD) uses specific parameters but ignores ecosystem functioning and individual/subindividual biological responses. The heavily modified water bodies (reservoirs) are strongly influenced by human activities that promote their imbalance, with a loss or compromise the biodiversity and the functioning of these ecosystems. This work aims to determinate the EP according physical, chemical and biological parameters of WFD and evaluate the functionality and sensitivity of ecotoxicological tools in the evaluation of water quality of Aguieira reservoir. Four sampling sites were defined in Aguieira reservoir and sampling was conducted in autumn 2018, spring and autumn 2019. WFD showed overall that Aguieira reservoir presented moderate EP. The autumn samples and the two reservoir upstream sites had the worst classification. These results were complemented by a set of ecotoxicological assays (growth inhibition of Raphidocelis subcapitata and Spirodela polyrhiza, and feeding rate of Daphnia longispina) using three natural water treatments. R. subcapitata was the most sensitive species, indicating the presence of a risk that is not detected by chemical analysis, nor by organisms of different trophic levels. D. longispina only showed sensitivity in A3 and A4 in autumn, however this results was difficult to interpret since no reason can be observed to respond the F1 lower feeding rate observed in almost sites. S. polyrhiza, as well as the total chlorophyll, lipid peroxidation, and proline content did not show sensitivity, since no discrimination among the water treatments were recorded. The relevance of bioassays is associated with the fact that an integrated response to a complex mixture can be obtained, which can contain more substances than the measured ones. Thus, we may conclude that WFD are insufficient to draw conclusions about water quality, and the growth inhibition of Raphidocelis subcapitata assay is an important parameter to complement the WFD. In addition, species of different trophic levels are recommended for ecotoxicological analyses due to differences in species sensitivities.

Sea Lettuce (Ulva spp.; Ulvophyceae, Ulvales, Ulvaceae) is an important ecological and economical entity, with a worldwide distribution and is a well-known source of near-shore blooms blighting many coastlines. Species of Ulva are frequently misidentified in public repositories, including herbaria and gene banks, making species identification based on traditional barcoding hazardous. We investigated the species distribution of 295 individual distromatic foliose strains from the North East Atlantic by traditional barcoding or next generation sequencing. We found seven distinct species, and compared our results with all worldwide Ulva spp sequences present in the NCBI database for the three barcodes rbcL, tufA and the ITS1. Our results demonstrate a large degree of species misidentification in the NCBI database. We estimate that 21% of the entries pertaining to foliose species are misannotated. In the extreme case of U. lactuca, 65% of the entries are erroneously labelled specimens of another Ulva species, typically U. fenestrata. In addition, 30% of U. rigida entries are misannotated, U. rigida being relatively rare and often misannotated U. laetevirens. Furthermore, U. armoricana and U. scandinavica present as being synonymous to U. laetevirens. An analysis of the global distribution of registered samples from foliose species also indicates possible geographical isolation for some species, and the absence of U. lactuca from Northern Europe. Altogether, exhaustive taxonomic clarification by aggregation of a library of barcode sequences highlights misannotations, and delivers an improved representation of Ulva species diversity and distribution. This approach could be easily adapted to other taxa.