Search Results (81)

Mangroves, as a key component of the blue-carbon ecosystem, have exceptional carbon sequestration capacity and are mainly distributed in tropical coastal regions. In the Solomon Islands, ongoing degradation of mangrove forests, primarily due to land conversion and timber exploitation, highlights an urgent need for high-resolution spatial data to inform effective conservation strategies. The present study introduces an efficient and accurate methodology for mapping mangrove habitats and prioritizing protection areas utilizing open-source satellite imagery and datasets available through the Google Earth Engine platform in conjunction with a U-Net deep learning algorithm. The model demonstrates high performance, achieving an F1-score of 0.834 and an overall accuracy of 0.96, in identifying mangrove distributions. The total mangrove area in the Solomon Islands is estimated to be approximately 71,348.27 hectares, accounting for about 2.47% of the national territory. Furthermore, based on the mapped mangrove habitats, an optimized hotspot analysis is performed to identify regions characterized by high-density mangrove distribution. By incorporating spatial variables such as distance from roads and urban centers, along with mangrove area, this study proposes priority mangrove protection areas. These results underscore the potential for using openly accessible satellite data to enhance the precision of mangrove conservation strategies in data-limited settings. This approach can effectively support coastal resource management and contribute to broader climate change mitigation strategies. Full article

Mangrove forests, vital coastal ecosystems that provide critical biodiversity habitats and carbon sequestration services, face increasing heavy metal pollution that threatens their ecological functions through bioaccumulation and toxicity to marine organisms. However, existing studies lack dynamic insights into temporal and spatial variations of heavy metals in mangrove sediments. This study systematically analyzed two mangrove reserves in Hainan Island, China (Hainan Dongzhaigang National Nature Reserve [DZG] and Hainan Qinglan Provincial Nature Reserve [QL]), by collecting sediment samples in 2014 and 2022, analyzing metals (Cr, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb) via ICP-MS, and applying the geo-accumulation index, potential ecological risk index, Markov transition matrix, and statistical analyses. Results showed that DZG exhibited rising Cu and Zn levels but declining Cr, As, Cd, and Pb, with Cd showing the most significant decrease (66.83%). In contrast, QL saw only a 42.7% reduction in Cd, while other heavy metals increased. Spatial heterogeneity linked higher concentrations to anthropogenic hotspots, DZG’s southeast (industrial/aquaculture inputs), and QL’s northwest (urban/industrial discharges). Although ecological risks were generally low, Cd in QL reached a moderate risk level (E_Cd = 46.44, 40 ≤ E_i < 80). The large-scale pond-to-mangrove conversion significantly increased vegetation cover, which enhanced sedimentation rates and exerted a “dilution effect” on sediment heavy metals. These findings underscore anthropogenic activities as the dominant driver of heavy metal contamination. We recommend (1) stringent wastewater control near QL, (2) enhanced shipping regulation, and (3) the establishment of mangrove buffers in heavy metal accumulation zones to improve ecological status. Full article

China’s reclamation regulation policy is an important policy tool used by the government to balance land development and ecological protection in coastal areas, but few studies have focused on the impact of the implementation of this policy on ecosystem services. To fill the gap, this study takes Ningbo City as an example, applies the InVEST model as a scenario analysis and trend indication tool, combines the market value method to quantify the ecosystem services of coastal wetlands, and explores the impact of the reclamation regulation policy on the coastal wetland ecosystem services through the regression discontinuity model. The findings are as follows: (1) from 2005 to 2020, the natural ecological landscape in the coastal zone of Ningbo City continued to shrink, but the overall value of ecosystem services showed a fluctuating upward trend. Among them, cropland and wetlands served as the primary conduits for ecosystem services in this region, highlighting the need to strengthen the protection of these two land types. (2) The implementation of reclamation regulation policy has an impact on ecosystem services. The policy implementation in 2011 appeared to suppress the downward trend of ecological habitat quality and carbon storage, while the policy implementation in 2017 had a positive impact on the enhancement of carbon storage and material production. (3) As for the effect of reclamation regulation policy on the changes in ecosystem services, although the measured positive impact of reclamation regulation policy on ecological habitat quality was less statistically pronounced compared to other services during the study period, it had significant positive effects on carbon storage and material production. On the whole, the reclamation regulation policy proves effective in contributing to the maintenance of coastal wetland ecosystem services. Although the model-based results in this study reveal more indicator trends rather than precise quantitative evidence, it helps mitigate degradation trends and enhance specific services like carbon storage and material production. Through its implementation, the policy aids in pursuing the win–win goal of balancing urban economic development and ecological environment protection. Full article

With the increasing global population and migration toward coastal regions, and the rising demand for coastal urbanization, including the development of living spaces, ports, and tourism infrastructure, the need for coastal defense structures (CDSs) is also increasing. Traditional CDSs, such as breakwaters, typically composed of hard units designed to block and divert wave and current energy, often fail to support diverse and abundant marine communities because of their impact on current and sediment transport, the introduction of invasive species, and the loss of natural habitats. Marine ecoengineering aims at increasing CDS ecological services and the development of marine organisms on them. In this study, carried out in a coral reef environment, we examined the relationship between coral colony protection levels and three factors related to their development, namely, coral fragment survival rate, larval settlement, and water motion (flow rate), across three distinct niches: Exposed, Semi-sheltered, and Sheltered. Coral survivability was assessed through fragment planting, while recruitment was monitored using ceramic settlement tiles. Water motion was measured in all defined niches using plaster of Paris Clod-Cards. Additionally, concrete barrier structures were placed in Exposed niches to test whether artificially added protective elements could enhance coral fragment survival. No differences were found in coral settlement between the niches. Flow rate patterns remained similar in Exposed and Sheltered niches due to vortex formation in the Sheltered zones. Survival analysis revealed variability between niches, with the addition of artificial shelter barriers leading to the highest coral fragment survival on the breakwater. This study contributes to the development of ways to enhance coral development with the goal of transforming artificial barriers into functional artificial reefs. Full article

Marine fouling communities, characterized by a high abundance of suspension feeders, play a crucial role in regulating ecosystem services, particularly in improving seawater quality. While not typically prioritized in conservation due to their prevalence in degraded or artificial habitats, fouling communities are important for their ecological functions under increasing urbanization and climate change. Bryozoans are an important component of these communities, although their filtering activity is less understood compared to some other groups, such as bivalves and ascidians. In this paper, we aimed to investigate the filtration activity of two widespread fouling bryozoan species, namely Schizoporella errata and Bugula neritina in the northern Adriatic (Slovenia). We measured the clearance rates (CR) of both the species when fed with microalgae to assess their filtration capacity and determine the most suitable units for quantifying the biofiltration. B. neritina exhibited a higher average CR than S. errata. The maximum CR was 32 mL/(h·cm²) for the S. errata and 52 mL/(h·cm²) for the B. neritina. Due to the morphological and growth differences between the species, the surface area was determined to be the most appropriate unit for expressing the CR. We also examined the CR of the S. errata exposed to fluorescent microplastic beads and identified active feeding areas within the colonies. Feeding zooids in S. errata were concentrated at the terminal growth margins and elevated areas of the frontal budding, as indicated by a higher fluorescence and microsphere density. These results contribute to the existing knowledge on fouling bryozoans in coastal habitats and provide further insights into their potential role as biofilters and contributors to ecosystem functioning. Full article

In the context of global warming, there is an increasing risk of the emergence and re-emergence of vector-borne diseases (VBDs). As one of the most important vectors, Culex tritaeniorhynchus can carry and transmit numerous human and animal infectious pathogens. To better understand the current distribution and possible future dynamics of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in China, an ecological niche modeling approach (MaxEnt) was adopted to model its current and future habitat suitability. The most comprehensive dataset (1100 occurrence records) in China to date was established for model training. Multiple global climate models (GCMs) and climate change scenarios were introduced into the model to counter the uncertainties of future climate change. Based on the model prediction, Cx. tritaeniorhynchus currently exhibits high habitat suitability in southern, central, and coastal regions of China. It is projected that its suitable niche will experience continuous expansion, and the core distribution is anticipated to shift northward in the future 21st century (by the 2050s, 2070s and 2090s). Several environmental variables that reflect temperature, precipitation, and land-use conditions were considered to have a significant influence on the distribution of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, among which annual mean temperature and urban land contribute the most to the model. Our study conducted a quantitative analysis of the shift and expansion of the future habitats of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, providing references for vector monitoring and the prevention and control of VBDs. Full article

In this study, we sampled malaria mosquito larvae in natural and artificial breeding places to study the geographical distribution, ecological preferences, and chromosomal variability of different species of the genus Anopheles in the territory of the Crimean Peninsula and the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus. Species were diagnosed using a combination of morphological, cytogenetic, and molecular markers. The ecological conditions of the larval habitats, such as dissolved oxygen content in the water, acidity, salinity, and temperature, were measured. Seven species of malaria mosquitoes were identified in the pool of 2229 individual mosquitoes collected at 56 breeding sites, including An. atroparvus, An. claviger, An. daciae (formerly identified as An. messeae s. l.), An. hyrcanus, An. maculipennis s. s., An. plumbeus, and An. melanoon. The previously recorded species of An. algeriensis, An. messeae s. s., An. sacharovi, and An. superpictus were not found in this study. Anopheles maculipennis was dominant in typical anophylogenic water bodies. Anopheles plumbeus, which used to breed mainly in tree holes in coastal forests, has spread to urban settlements along the Black Sea coast and breeds in artificial containers. Chromosomal polymorphism was studied and found in An. atroparvus and An. daciae populations. Differences in the chromosomal composition of An. daciae populations in Crimea and on the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus were revealed. The Crimean population had a low level of polymorphism in autosomal inversions. The data obtained in this study can be used to inform a better control of potential malaria vectors in the Black Sea coastal region. Full article

The number of studies on submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) and the evidence of its significance in biogeochemical cycling and potential impacts on the chemical and ecological status of coastal waters is increasing globally. Here, we briefly present SGD studies from the Baltic Sea identified along the coastlines of Denmark, Finland, Germany, Poland, Sweden and Russia in the southwestern, southern and north–northeastern parts of the Baltic Sea. We introduce a digital SGD map viewer and information platform enabling easy overview and access to information on identified SGD sites in the coastal areas of the Baltic Sea. SGDs potentially transport critical pollutants from urban and agricultural areas on land to the marine environment. The pollutants include nutrients, dissolved organic and inorganic carbon, metals, pharmaceuticals, and other emerging contaminants, potentially harming marine ecosystems and biodiversity and possibly contributing to the poor chemical or ecological status of coastal waters, affecting human and environmental health. We focus on case studies from Finland, Germany, Poland and Denmark that include the results and interpretations from the applied geochemical, geophysical and geological methods, as well as bionic autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for locating, investigating, modelling and visualizing SGD sites in 2D and 3D. The potential Pan-European or even global SGD information platform established within the European Geological Data Infrastructure (EGDI) enables the easy combination and comparison of map layers such as seabed sediment types and coastal habitats. The EGDI map viewer provides easy access to information from SGD studies and may serve as an entry point to relevant information on SGDs, including contents of pollutants, for the scientific community and policy-makers. The information potentially includes the results of model simulations, data from near real-time sensors at permanently installed monitoring stations and surveys in time and space conducted by AUVs. The presented digital SGD information platform is particularly pertinent to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 14, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and marine resources. Full article

The Conca d’Oro of Palermo, a plain in NW Sicily of significant historical and agricultural importance, has undergone significant landscape alterations due to agricultural strengthening and urbanization. This paper analyses the evolution of the plant landscape from early human settlements to the present by integrating historical records, cartographic analysis, and floristic surveys. Three key periods of change were identified: Roman-era deforestation for cereal cultivation, the expansion of irrigated agriculture under Arab rule, and the dominance of citrus monoculture in the 19th century. Post-World War II urban expansion led to the loss of agricultural land and natural habitats, particularly wetlands and coastal dunes. Spatial analysis revealed a drastic reduction in semi-natural areas, with agricultural land giving way to urban sprawl. Floristic studies showed the persistence of endemic plant species in fragmented natural habitats alongside the local extinction of wetlands and coastal vegetation. The Oreto River, a river with a basin that extends into the territories of the municipalities of Altofonte, Monreale, and Palermo, remains a critical biodiversity reservoir, and most other natural ecosystems have been degraded. This research provides insights into the long-term interactions between human activities and biodiversity and offers a foundation for sustainable conservation strategies in Mediterranean urban and peri-urban environments. Full article

With elevations mostly less than 2 m, the Florida Keys, an island chain stretching nearly two hundred kilometers from Biscayne Bay to Key West, Florida, is among the most vulnerable coastal regions globally. As the threats from tropical cyclones, storm surges, and sea level rise intensify, urbanized areas increasingly rely on shoreline armoring, disregarding the negative effects on coastal habitats. Living shorelines, which integrate coastal vegetation to stabilize erodible shoreline segments or enhance existing grey infrastructure, have successfully addressed some of these challenges. We present a decision framework for evaluating the suitability of different stabilization methods for existing shoreline conditions. The framework incorporates a Shoreline Relative Exposure Index (SREI) based on shoreline orientation, wind and wave exposure, shoreline slope, bathymetry, nearshore habitat, and storm surge. To refine this framework, we conducted an expert opinion survey to determine parameter weights. The results will inform decisions on using vegetated shorelines alone or with structural elements to reduce wave action, control erosion, and protect Florida Keys communities from storm damage. Implementing innovative shoreline stabilization methods is crucial as climate change and population growth are expected to exacerbate flood management challenges. Full article

Urban flora is a more and more interesting research subject, in light of the ongoing environmental change and biological homogenisation, since urban contexts are much more diversified that natural ones and, therefore, they offer much more colonisation possibilities to allochthonous species or unexpected refuges for endangered species. We have, therefore, added our own contribution by analysing the spontaneous vascular flora of 7 cities of the Emilia-Romagna Po Plain (northern Italy), one of the more culturally and economically developed areas in Europe. The global floristic list was 1305 species, spanning from 432 to 756 species in each individual city; 219 of them were constantly present in all cities examined. A notable richness in phytosociological classes (43 out of 75 known for the entire national territory) was observed. Therophytes were 35.4% of the spectrum, followed by hemicryptophytes, phanerophytes and geophytes. Eurasian and Mediterranean species dominated (average values 30 and 27%, respectively); exotic species were 26.8%, in line with the strong floristic pollution of Emilia-Romagna, with neophytes always prevailing over archaeophytes. Among neophytes, 44.8% came from the Americas and 26.2% from Asia. Some hydro-hygrophilous and halophilous species were found, owing to the presence of watercourses crossing the urban areas and coastal wetlands bordering one of the towns. The species new for the flora of Italy or Emilia-Romagna were 32, of which 24 were allochthonous. The species protected at a regional or national level were hardly present, which is normal in artificial environments. Despite the inevitable differences in exploration intensity and effort, this synthesis offers a picture of the contribution given by anthropogenic habitats to the global biological richness of the territory. Full article

The Gambia’s coastline, known for its unique ecosystems and vital role in the country’s economy through fisheries, tourism, and agriculture, is becoming increasingly vulnerable as a result of the combined effects of climate change and human activity. This coastline sustains an important portion of the population by providing livelihoods and contributing to food security, as well as housing critical infrastructure including ports, urban areas, and tourism hubs. However, as climate change intensifies pre-existing vulnerabilities, such as increased sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events, these socio-economic assets are becoming more and more vulnerable. As a result, this study focused on investigating the physical vulnerability of the coastline in the context of climate change. The vulnerability assessment was conducted using the coastal vulnerability index approach, utilising a combination of oceanographic data, remote sensing, and field observations. The research outcomes supported the identification of key areas at risk and examined the contributing factors such as tidal ranges, storm surges, and human activities. The findings highlight the immediate and long-term threats to coastal communities, infrastructure, and natural habitats. Due to the vulnerability provided by geological and geomorphological factors, the average Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI) score of 29 indicates a high level of exposure to coastal hazards from Buniadu Point to Barra. From Banjul to Cape Point, the average coastline dynamic rate is positive at 0.21 m/year, indicating some accretion. Despite this, the CVI score of 22 indicates significant vulnerability to coastal hazards from Bald Cape to Salifor Point. The study also explored potential mitigation and adaptation strategies to enhance coastal resilience to sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and flooding. Integrated and sustainable strategies were outlined to support policy-making and community-based initiatives towards safeguarding coastal regions of The Gambia against the backdrop of climate change. Full article

Heavy metals originating from industrial runoff, agricultural practices, urbanization, and natural geological processes persist in coastal sediments due to their low degradation rates and high stability. Their cycling is influenced by sediment dynamics, water circulation, and complex interactions with biological and chemical factors. Heavy metal pollution demonstrates serious risks to coastal biota, including fish, shellfish, algae, and marine mammals through mechanisms such as bioaccumulation and biomagnification. These processes lead to biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, and reduced ecosystem functionality. Current mitigation strategies for pollution control regulations and remediation techniques show promise but face challenges in implementation. Emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and bioremediation offer innovative solutions but require further validation. Knowledge gaps persist in understanding the long-term ecological impacts of heavy metal contamination and optimizing management strategies for diverse coastal ecosystems. Coastal ecosystems are vital for supporting biodiversity and providing essential ecosystem services, but they are increasingly threatened by heavy metal pollution—a pervasive environmental challenge that demands urgent attention. This review investigates the sources, characteristics, pathways, ecological impacts, and management strategies associated with heavy metal contamination in coastal environments. The review synthesizes findings from recent literature, employing a systematic approach to analyze natural and anthropogenic sources, contamination pathways, and the biogeochemical processes governing heavy metal cycling. Future research should focus on addressing these gaps through interdisciplinary approaches, integrating advanced modeling techniques, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable management practices. By prioritizing these efforts, we can safeguard coastal ecosystems and their essential services from the escalating threats of heavy metal pollution. Full article

The global demand for coastal urbanization is rising with the increasing population. Alas, living close to the ocean threatens human endeavors with high currents, waves, and increasing storm frequency. Accordingly, the need for more coastal defense structures (CDSs) rises. Structures built from complex units meant to prevent and/or mitigate coastal erosion and floods, additionally providing wave protection or wave attenuation, are constructed on and near natural habitats where they alter local ecosystems. Traditional CDSs mostly fail to harbor diverse and abundant communities. However, this can be changed by eco-friendly methodologies and designs that are being tested and implemented to improve CDSs’ ecological value. Some of these can be implemented during the construction period, while others can fit on existing structures, such as wave breakers and seawalls. Effective methods include augmenting surface rugosity through strategic perforations, integrating artificial panels for increased complexity, implementing soft (naturally based) engineering solutions such as geotextiles, replacing industrial concrete mixtures for CDS construction with “green concrete” and ecologically friendly mixtures, and using alternative, eco-friendly units in CDS erections. In this mini review, we suggest that by integrating sustainable practices into coastal development, we can significantly mitigate the ecological damage caused by traditional CDSs and promote more harmonious relationships between human construction and the marine environment. This shift towards environmentally conscious coastal defenses is essential and a responsibility for ensuring the long-term sustainability of our coastal communities and the health of our oceans. We present current methodologies used on breakwaters worldwide. Full article

In the coastal zone, two types of habitats—linear and areal—are distinguished. The main differences between both types are their shape and structure and the hydro- and litho-dynamic, salinity, and ecological gradients. Studying linear littoral habitats is essential for interpreting the ’coastal squeeze’ effect. The study’s main objective was to assess short-term behavior of soft cliffs as littoral linear habitats during calm season storm events in the example of the Olandų Kepurė cliff, located on a peri-urban protected seashore (Baltic Sea, Lithuania). The approach combined the surveillance of the cliff using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with the data analysis using an ArcGIS algorithm specially adjusted for linear habitats. The authors discerned two short-term behavior forms—cliff base cavities and scarp slumps. The scarp slumps are more widely spread. It is particularly noticeable at the beginning of the spring–summer period when the difference between the occurrence of both forms is 3.5 times. In contrast, cliff base cavities proliferate in spring. This phenomenon might be related to a seasonal Baltic Sea level rise. The main conclusion is that 55 m long cliff cells are optimal for analyzing short-term cliff behavior using UAV and GIS. Full article