bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do all ecosystems maximise their distance with respect to thermodynamic equilibrium? A comment on the Ecological Law of Thermodynamics (ELT), proposed by Sven Erik Jørgensen
Authors: De Wit Rutger
Published: October 2008

Sven Erik Jørgensen has boldly proposed a “Fourth Law of Thermodynamics” which he also advocates as the “Ecological Law of Thermodynamics” or ELT (Integration of Ecosystem Theories: A Pattern, Kluwer Academic Publisher). This Law is still a hypothesis and can be tested. I disagree with the generalised way he uses the term “exergy” in his approach. Exergy is commonly defined as a measure of the work capacity of a system. According to the physicists Boltzmann information embodies energy. Jørgensen takes this into account when considering the “exergy” stored in ecosystems; hence, according to his way of calculating the genetic information of the organisms is the mayor contribution to “exergy”. I argue that energy has been embodied in the information during a historical process and that because of fundamental irreversibility this energy cannot be extracted again for work capacity. Moreover, other phenomena mentioned earlier by Ramon Margalef, demonstrate that proliferating information in biota shows uncoupling with respect to its embodied energy content according to the Boltzmann formula. In spite of these objections, some of Sven Erik Jørgensen’s core ideas are exiting and worthwhile testing. I place these within the context of the non-equilibrium thermodynamic theories on “dissipative systems” developed by the physicist Ilya Prigogine.
Using routine hydrographic sections for estimating the parameters needed for Optimal Statistical Interpolation. Application to the northern Alboran Sea
Authors: Vargas-Yáñez Manuel , Garivier Florian , Pirra Olivier , García-Martínez M.
Published: October 2008

Optimal Statistical Interpolation is widely applied in the analysis of oceanographic data. This technique requires knowing some statistics of the analysed fields such as the covariance function and the noise to signal ratio. The different parameters needed should be obtained from historical data sets, but, in contrast with the case of meteorology, these data sets are not frequently available for oceanographic purposes. Here we show that using routine hydrographic samplings can provide a good estimate of the statistics needed to perform an Optimal Statistical Interpolation. These data sets allow the covariance function to be estimated between two points with different horizontal and vertical coordinates taking into account the possible lack of homogeneity and isotropy which is rarely considered. This also allows us to accomplish a three-dimensional analysis of hydrographic data, which yields smaller analysis errors than a traditional two-dimensional analysis would.
Experimental evidence that intra-specific competition in seagrass meadows reduces reproductive potential in the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus (Lamarck)
Authors: Tomas Fiona , Romero Javier , Turon Xavier
Published: October 2008

To better understand the biological controls that regulate sea urchin dynamics, we studied the effects of potential inter- and intra-specific competition for food on several biological variables of the main sea urchin in the Mediterranean (Paracentrotus lividus). We carried out a caging experiment in which we manipulated sea urchin density (natural vs. high density) and herbivorous fish (Sarpa salpa) accessibility (free access vs. exclusion) in a Posidonia oceanica meadow. No evidence of competition between fish and urchins was detected. Neither density-dependent mortality nor changes in the somatic variables were found; however, we detected that intra-specific competition affected the reproductive potential of P. lividus. The gonad index of urchins at high population densities was ca. 30% lower than that of urchins at natural densities. As a spawning event had just occurred when urchins were collected, these differences probably reflect differences in reserve content, which may compromise the following reproductive period and decrease survival in the long term, as the gonads are also used as storage organs. For the time period studied, mortality rates appeared to be independent of local densities. The results indicate that a long-term negative feedback mechanism appears to take place in P. lividus in response to increased population density.
Annual population dynamics of the opossum shrimp Neomysis americana Smith, 1873 (Crustacea, Mysidacea) from an estuarine sector of the Argentine Sea
Authors: Delia Viñas María , Ramírez Fernando C. , Mianzan Hermes W.
Published: October 2008

The opossum shrimp Neomysis americana Smith, 1873 (Crustacea: Mysidacea) is abundant in coastal and estuarine sectors of the southwest Atlantic ((30°S-40°S) where it plays a key role as food for fish. In the present work the population dynamics of the species in Samborombón Bay (Río de la Plata estuary, Argentina) during an annual cycle is analyzed. Samples were obtained from March 1987 through to March 1988 with a small Bongo net (20 cm diameter, 200 µm mesh size). N. americana occurred all year round with maximum densities in austral spring and summer. Three annual generations were identified. The overwintering generation had a growth rate of about 0.037 mm day-1 and duration of 4.9 months, the spring generation grew at a rate of 0.146 mm day-1 during 1.5 months, the summer generation had a growth rate of 0.076 mm day-1 and matured in 1.5 months. The sex ratio was favourable to females, which had a higher growth rate and a larger size than males. The species reproduced constantly throughout the year. The proportion of gravid females was higher during spring and summer but the brood size was larger in winter (20-25 embryos female-1) than in spring and summer (10-15 embryos female-1). The results obtained were related to the environmental conditions. The implications of the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of Neomysis americana for the local food web were discussed.
Geographic, bathymetric and inter-annual variability in the distribution of Liocarcinus depurator (Brachyura: Portunidae) along the Mediterranean coast of the Iberian peninsula
Authors: Rufino Marta M. , Abello Pere , Yule Andrew B. , Torres Pedro
Published: October 2008

The patterns of occurrence and density of Liocarcinus depurator along the western Mediterranean coast (from Gibraltar to Cape Creus) were measured at depths between 25 and 800 m. Bottom trawl surveys were carried out from 1994 to 2003. For analysis, the area was divided into eight geographic sectors and eight depth intervals. The highest crab occurrences (~80% of trawls) and densities (985 crabs km-2 on average) were found on the shallow muddy continental shelf at depths of 51-100 m with the next highest densities on the upper slope between 201 and 300 m depth (~130 crabs km-2 on average) and occurrence (66% of trawls) between 301 and 400 m. Below 500 m, both crab occurrence and density dropped sharply and L. depurator occurred in less than 10% of all trawls. Thus L. depurator appears to slightly avoid areas on the continental shelf break which are characterised by coarser sediments than on the adjacent continental shelf and slope. Geographically, maximum crab occurrence and density were observed off Valencia (86%, 1187 crabs km-2) and West Alborán (83%, 974 crabs km-2), followed by the Ebro Delta (75%, 502 crabs km-2). Off Alicante L. depurator were relatively common (74% of trawls) but at lower densities (294 crabs km-2 on average). Abundance off the coast of North Catalonia (317 crabs km-2) was equivalent to that off Alicante but the crabs were generally less common (53% of trawls). In general, the highest densities of L. depurator occurred in areas with a wide continental shelf and muddy sediments. During the ten years from 1994 to 2003, densities decreased at a rate of 8 and 4% per annum in shallower water and water deeper than 150 m respectively with a similar decrease in percentage occurrence. This pattern is discussed in relation to the physiological tolerance of the species and reported trends of warming in the Mediterranean Sea.
Molecular validation of the specific status of Parablennius sanguinolentus and Parablennius parvicornis (Pisces: Blenniidae)
Authors: Almada Federico , Carvalho Almada Vitor , Domingues Vera , Brito Alberto , Serrao Santos Ricardo
Published: October 2008

Parablennius sanguinolentus and P. parvicornis have been classified as either two distinct species or as two sub-species depending on the different criteria used to classify them. An analysis of fragments of mitochondrial 12S and 16S rDNA showed that the genetic distance between samples of P. sanguinolentus and P. parvicornis is similar or higher than those found for other blenniids that are widely recognized as distinct species. These results, together with the distinct geographical distributions and meristic differences, support the conclusion that P. sanguinolentus and P. parvicornis should be considered as two different species.
Karyological characterization of Mugil trichodon Poey, 1876 (Pisces: Mugilidae)
Authors: Nirchio Mauro , Ron Ernesto , Rosi Anna Rita
Published: October 2008

Cytogenetic studies were conducted on Mugil trichodon from Margarita Island, Venezuela. The species showed a karyotype 2n=48 with entirely acrocentric chromosomes (Arm number, NF=48). Chromosomes gradually decreased in size and did not allow a clear distinction of homologues, except for one marker pair, which showed a conspicuous secondary constriction. C-banding showed heterochromatic blocks restricted at the centromeric regions of all the chromosomes. Some were more obvious than others, with the exception of the chromosome pair that had a secondary constriction with entirely heterochromatic short arms. Sequential staining with Giemsa and AgNO3 demonstrated the conspicuous secondary constrictions corresponding to the NORs, and these had significant intraindividual size variations between both homologous chromosomes. The data obtained here support the contention that Mugilidae have a conservative chromosome macrostructure and reinforce the hypothesis that small structural chromosome rearrangements involving active NOR sites are the main cause of the karyotypic diversification seen in this group.
Distribution and abundance of snipefish (Macroramphosus spp.) off Portugal (1998-2003)
Authors: Marques Victor , Chaves Corina , Morais Alexandre , Cardador Fatima , Stratoudakis Yorgos
Published: October 2008

Data from 10 acoustic surveys targeting sardine (spring and autumn), 3 acoustic surveys targeting blue whiting (spring) and 9 groundfish surveys (summer and autumn) were used to describe the distribution and relative abundance of snipefish (Macroramphosus spp.) off Portugal and the Gulf of Cadiz in recent years (1998-2003). Snipefish (8-17 cm) were regularly found off Portugal, occasionally in large concentrations, but were absent from the Gulf of Cadiz. Off northern Portugal, snipefish were distributed along the outer shelf and upper slope, clearly separated from sardine (the most abundant species in the inner shelf) and partially overlapping with blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou), the most abundant species in the upper slope. Snipefish were most abundant in the outer shelf of south-western Portugal, preferentially distributed in large aggregations around the Canyon of Setubal and partially overlapping with the distribution of boarfish (Capros aper) and blue whiting (both abundant in the upper slope of south-western Portugal). Off southern Portugal snipefish were almost exclusively distributed in the outer shelf and were significantly smaller than in south-western (intermediate) and northern Portugal (large). Acoustic estimates of total snipefish biomass ranged between 176 – 504 thousand tonnes within the study period, with more than half off south-western Portugal. Within the period 1998-2003, and despite the lack of directed fishing activity, a marked decline in abundance and a small but significant increase in mean length were observed, particularly off south-western Portugal.
Modeling artisanal coastal fisheries of Galicia (NW Spain) based on data obtained from fishers: the case of Octopus vulgaris
Authors: Otero Jaime , Rocha Francisco , González Ángel F. , Gracia Joaquín , Guerra Ángel
Published: October 2008

The small-scale common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) fishery in Galician waters (NW Spain) was studied using a model based on information obtained from fishers. The Gómez-Muñoz model was applied using information obtained from the artisanal Galician fleet from 1998 to 2000. This information was used to estimate catches per unit of effort (CPUE) and total catch for the whole directed creel fishery. A total of 73 interviews were conducted in 22 ports in the west part of ICES division VIIIc and 75 interviews in 16 ports in the north part of ICES division IXa. The estimated total catch during the fishing season for the whole Galician fleet was 5214 t (2528 t in VIIIc and 2686 t in IXa), and the average CPUE for the VIIIc and IXa fishing grounds obtained from the model was 44.11 and 23.83 kg haul-1 respectively. To test the reliability of the model, the outputs obtained for a subset of 35 ports (19 in VIIIc and 16 in IXa), were compared with the official statistics of these ports. The average official catch from 1997 to 2000 and estimated total catch data were significantly correlated.
Impact of additional small-scale survey data on the geostatistical analyses of demersal fish species in the North Sea
Authors: Stelzenmüller Vanessa , Ehrich Siegfried , Zauke Gerd Peter
Published: October 2008

Geostatistical tools have been used to study the impact of additional small scale catch data (star survey design) on the spatial analysis of fish, regarding different biological groups of dab, Limanda limanda and whiting, Merlangius merlangus. A standard survey carried out in January (2001-2003) in a meso-scale area in the German Bight was modified by additional small-scale sampling in 2002 and 2003. Adopting the star survey reduced the small-scale variability for medium-sized and male dab, as indicated by lower values of the nugget effect and an increased resolution of the spatial dependency. For whiting no reduction in the small scale variability could be detected; a significant difference in the spatial structuring was only found for two different size groups of whiting. Uncertainty of mean catches of dab and whiting was reduced in 2002, while in 2003 the effect of the star survey was less pronounced due to the high local density of the nearby stations. We conclude that the star survey design can be an inexpensive and effective procedure — depending on the species studied and/or the positioning of the nearby stations — when a minimised small-scale variability and a reduction of uncertainty in mean biomass of fish are the focus of interest.
Observations on the reproductive cycle, age and growth of the salema, Sarpa salpa (Osteichthyes: Sparidae) along the western central coast of Italy
Authors: Criscoli Alessandro , Colloca Francesco , Carpentieri Paolo , Belluscio Andrea , Ardizzone Giandomenico
Published: October 2008

The sexual maturation and the growth of the salema, Sarpa salpa (Linnaeus, 1758), along the Italian Mediterranean coast (central Italy), were studied in fish (n = 105) killed incidentally by underwater explosions during the construction of Civitavecchia harbour in 1999 and specimens collected with trammel nets (n = 339). This species is characterized by a protandric hermaphroditism and the sex change process occurs between 24 and 31 cm TL corresponding to a wide range of ages (3-7 years). Size at maturity (L50) was 19.5 cm, at which almost all the individuals were males. Two distinct spawning periods were observed: one in spring, from March to May, and the other in autumn, from the end of September to November. During the first year, compensatory growth occurred in the individuals born in the two periods. An annual regular pattern of ring deposition was identified in the otoliths: the translucent ring was laid down during the winter months, while the opaque ring was formed during the summer months. Back-calculated lengths at age were used to estimate the parameters of the Von Bertalanffy growth equation which were: L∞ = 37.27 cm, K = 0.27 year-1 and t0 = -0.53 year. Salema showed isometric growth (b = 3.04; P = 0.84; t = 0.19).
A web-based environment for shape analysis of fish otoliths. The AFORO database
Authors: Lombarte Antoni , Chic Òscar , Parisi-Baradad Vicenç , Olivella Roger , Piera Jaume , García-Ladona Emilio
Published: October 2008

We present an automatic system for describing and identifying fish otolith shapes combining information technologies with modern advances in signal analysis. As a major novelty with respect to past studies the system includes wavelets (WT) and curvature space scale (CSS) analyses that have been shown to provide local morphologic information and characteristics (landmarks) of the sagitta otolith outline for non-specialists. By applying this electronic catalogue directly the system is very helpful for determining teleostean fish size, population and species. Both the electronic catalogue and the shape analysis are implemented through the AFORO database, which at present contains more than 1250 high resolution images of the left sagitta from 292 species and 94 families of teleostan fishes sampled mainly in Mediterranean and Antarctic waters.
Vertical distribution and trophic structure of the macrozooplankton in a shallow temperate estuary (Ria de Aveiro, Portugal)
Authors: Morgado Fernando M. , Pastorinho Ramiro , Quintaneiro Carla , Ré Pedro
Published: October 2008

The zooplankton of the lower part of Canal de Mira (Ria de Aveiro) was sampled during one lunar month. The sampling programme consisted of nine 25 hour fixed-cycles, separated weekly. In each cycle, samples were collected every two hours at three depths (surface, mid-water and above the bottom) with a 500 µm mesh net. The overall effect of the tidal phase was analyzed, taking into account the day and depth of the vertical position of the organisms through a 3-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The zooplankton densities were, in general, higher at the surface during the night and near the bottom during the day, mainly at spring tide. The variation in the number of species followed a similar pattern to that observed for abundance. Significant differences (p
Morphology of the first zoeal stage of Portunus acuminatus, Stimpson, 1871 (Decapoda: Portunidae: Portuninae) reared in the laboratory
Authors: Meyer Ronald , Wehrtmann Ingo S. , Melzer Roland R.
Published: October 2008

Larvae of Portunus acuminatus (Stimpson, 1871) from one female, collected by trawling at a depth of 12 m in the Gulf of Nicoya, Pacific Costa Rica, Central America (090°48.899’N, 084°40.498’W) were hatched in the laboratory. The morphology of zoea I is described and illustrated for the first time and compared with known zoeae of other portunid species belonging to the subfamily Portuninae. We present a combination of three features which allows zoea I larvae of P. acuminatus to be distinguished from other described larvae of the genus. Descriptions are based on dissected larvae analysed by SEM and light microscopy.
Distribution and abundance by larval developmental stages of Symphurus williamsi (Pleuronectiformes: Cynoglossidae) in the Gulf of California
Authors: Aceves-Medina Gerardo , Saldierna-Martínez Ricardo J. , González-Navarro Enrique A.
Published: October 2008

Distribution and abundance of tonguefish larvae (Symphurus williamsi) were analyzed from collections made during ten oceanographic surveys in the Gulf of California between 1984 and 1988. Larvae were found mainly during the summer months and the highest abundances were located in the warmer southern and central regions of the Gulf, but they were scarce in the northern portion. High abundance of preflexion larvae occurred in areas where the sea surface temperature was between 29 and 32°C. Distribution patterns according to developmental stage suggest spatial ontogenic segregation with the early larvae in the ocean area of the central and southern regions of the Gulf. Based on abundance of preflexion larvae as well as on signs of a short egg period of this species, spawns may occur between early and mid summer.
Condition of Gobius cobitis (Pallas, 1811) juveniles in the Mar Menor coastal lagoon (SE Iberian Peninsula): Effects of inter- and intraspecific fish competition
Authors: Verdiell-Cubedo David , Oliva-Paterna Francisco J. , Torralva Mar
Published: October 2008

We investigated the relationships, at a local level, between fish condition and environmental variables in Gobius cobitis juveniles. The relationships between 14 ecological variables of shallow areas of the Mar Menor coastal lagoon (water temperature, water salinity, depth, submerged vegetation richness, submerged vegetation cover, submerged vegetation volume, substrate size, substrate heterogeneity, fish species richness, potential competitor fish species abundance and biomass, G. cobitis abundance and biomass, G. cobitis biomass/abundance ratio) and fish condition were analysed. The mass-length relationship of juveniles was used to test differences in fish condition between 12 sampling sites. The ecological variables that accounted for most of the variation in fish condition were related to both inter- and intraspecific fish competition.
A bio-economic analysis of the hand-line and gillnet coastal fisheries of Pernambuco State, North-eastern Brazil
Authors: Mattos Sérgio , Maynou Francesc , Franquesa Ramon
Published: October 2008

This paper presents a bio-economic analysis of the hand-line and gillnet coastal fisheries off Pernambuco State, north-eastern Brazil, in order to define management measures to support the decision-making process available to fisheries managers to reduce uncertainties about the sustainable development of the fisheries. The objective of applying a bio-economic model was to reproduce the biological and economic conditions in which the fisheries occur. This was done by carrying out projections and simulations, starting from the current situation and going forward into the future with the purpose of analysing the behaviour of the fishery under different conditions, particularly different management measures. Six scenarios are presented, defined by different management regimes: Scenario 1: increase in catchability; Scenario 2: reduction in fuel price; Scenario 3: closed season; Scenario 4: reduction in the number of active boats; Scenario 5: reduction of catches of juveniles; and Scenario 6: joint implementation of biological, economic and technical management strategies. Management events were always introduced in the fifth year of the simulation, with the exception of Scenario 1, in which the event was introduced in the first year. For each of the five scenarios, a deterministic simulation was carried out with a Beverton-Holt model of the stock-recruitment relationship. Simulations were carried forward through a 30-year period. The best management strategy, in biological and economic terms, seems to be the joint application of several management measures that satisfy the claims of stakeholders, and permit a biological and economic equilibrium between the activity and the efforts to rebuild stocks.
Life history of the amphipod Corophium insidiosum (Crustacea: Amphipoda) from Mar Piccolo (Ionian Sea, Italy)
Authors: Prato Ermelinda , Biandolino Francesca
Published: October 2008

A one-year study was conducted on the life history of the amphipod Corophium insidiosum (Crawford, 1937) in the Mar Piccolo estuary (Southern Italy). Monthly collections were made to investigate certain aspects of population structure, abundance and reproductive biology. Population density showed a clear seasonal variation: with a maximum in spring-summer and a minimum in autumn-winter. Although brooding females were present all year round, recruitment occurred in spring, decreased in summer, peaked in autumn and almost ceased during the winter. 7-8 new cohorts in all samples could be recognised from April 2002 to November 2002. Mean longevity was ~5 to 6 months, and the estimated lifespan was longer for individuals born in late summer than for individuals born in spring. The sex ratio favoured females with a mean value of 1.51, but males grew faster and attained a larger maximum body length than females. Males and females became distinguishable at roughly > 2 mm, reaching a maximum size of 5.6 mm for females and 6.0 mm for males during the winter months. The females reproduced for the first time when they reached 2.2 mm body length. The number of eggs carried by females was related to the size of the female.
Gelatinous zooplankton net-collected in the Gulf of Maine and adjacent submarine canyons: new species, new family (Jeanbouilloniidae), taxonomic remarks and some parasites
Authors: Pagès Francesc , Flood Per , Youngbluth Marsh
Published: October 2008

A systematic account is provided of the siphonophores, medusae, ctenophores, molluscs and salps net-collected in basins of the Gulf of Maine and adjacent canyons during three cruises carried out in September 2002, 2003 and 2004. We describe the siphonophore Lensia quadriculata sp. nov. and the hydroidomedusae Jeanbouillonia maserati gen. nov. et sp. nov., the latter is the first member of the new family Jeanbouilloniidae. New observations are made about the morphology and/or systematics of the siphonophore Gilia reticulata and the hydroidomedusae Bougainvillia platygaster, Bougainvillia principis, Modeeria rotunda, Clytia hemisphaerica, Orchistoma collapsum and Dichotomia cannoides. Parasites associated with the ctenophores Pleurobrachia pileus (a cestode) and Beroe sp. (a hyperid amphipod) are reported.
Feeding habits of Calanus sinicus (Crustacea: Copepoda) during spring and autumn in the Bohai Sea studied with the herbivore index
Authors: Zhang Guang-Tao , Li Chao-Lun , Sun Song , Zhang Hong-Yan , Sun Jun , Ning Xiu-Ren
Published: October 2008

Pigment ingestion rate (PIR) and egg production rate (EPR) of the dominant copepod Calanus sinicus, as well as chlorophyll-a concentration and phytoplankton assemblages were measured in the Bohai Sea, North China in June 1997, October 1998 and May 1999. A herbivore index (H) was also calculated as the carbon specific ratio of PIR and EPR, in order to investigate its feeding habits in the spring and autumn phytoplankton bloom respectively. On average, chlorophyll-a concentration was relatively similar (1-1.34 mg m-3) in the three cruises, but PIR was quite different. It was 3.24 µg C female-1 d-1 in October, equivalent to one half of the PIR for June and one third of the PIR for May. Average EPR was highest in May, and quite similar during the other two months. According to H values, herbivorous feeding contributed 100% of the egg production of C. sinicus in June, 82.5% in May, but only 47.8% in October. It is possible that omnivorous feeding of C. sinicus in October was induced by a prevalence of large-sized diatoms and sufficient non-phytoplankton food resources during the autumn bloom period.
Marine ornamental species from European waters: a valuable overlooked resource or a future threat for the conservation of marine ecosystems?
Authors: Calado Ricardo
Published: October 2008

P align=justify>The worldwide growth of the marine aquarium market has contributed to the degradation of coral reef ecosystems. Enforcing the legislation on importing ornamental species has led some European traders to concentrate on local species. Portugal is used as a case study of marine ornamental fish and invertebrate collection in European waters. One hundred and seventy two species occurring in Portuguese waters (mainland, the Azores and Madeira archipelagos) were considered as potential targets for the marine aquarium industry, some of which are already traded on a regular basis (e.g. Clibanarius erythropus, Lysmata seticaudata, Cerithium vulgatum, Hinia reticulata and Ophioderma longicauda). To ensure appropriate management and conservation of these resources, the following options have been evaluated: banning the harvest and trade of all marine ornamental species from European waters; creating sanctuaries and “no take zones”; issuing collection permits; creating certified wholesalers; implementing the use of suitable gear and collecting methods; setting minimum and maximum size limits; establishing species-based quotas; protecting rare, or “key stone” species and organisms with poor survivability in captivity; establishing closed seasons; culturing ornamental organisms; and creating an “eco-fee” to support research and management. Establishing this sustainable alternative fishery may help minimise the economical and social impacts caused by the crash of important food fisheries in Portugal and other European and West African countries.
Spatial variation in size at onset of maturity of female southern rock lobster Jasus edwardsii around Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Gardner Caleb , Frusher Stewart , Barrett Neville , Haddon Malcolm , Buxton Colin
Published: October 2008

P align=justify>The size at onset of maturity (SOM) of female Jasus edwardsii (Hutton, 1875) was estimated at 50 sites around Tasmania, Australia, based on the presence of ovigerous setae. There was a distinct spatial cline with the largest SOM being found at northwestern sites and the smallest at southwestern sites. Variation in SOM between sites was substantial and ranged from 59 mm to 112 mm carapace length. The observed decline in SOM from north to south was the reverse of that described for the same species at similar latitudes in New Zealand, which suggests that SOM in J. edwardsii is regulated by factors in addition to temperature. The effect of density on female SOM was investigated by comparing SOM estimates from two marine reserves with adjacent fished sites; however, there was no evidence of a decline in SOM with increasing density as predicted. A model of SOM predicted by latitude and longitude is described to facilitate spatial modelling of lobster stocks. The substantial and predictable spatial variation in SOM implies that management of this fishery would be improved by incorporating spatial elements, such as regional legal minimum size limits.
The surface circulation in the eastern basin of the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Hamad Najwa , Millot Claude , Taupier-Letage Isabelle
Published: October 2008

The schema of the Atlantic Water (AW, 100-200 m thick) circulation in the eastern basin of the Mediterranean Sea elaborated in the 1990s (and widely referred to nowadays) mainly shows jets meandering offshore across the whole basin. However, all previous schemata (since the 1910s) and an analysis of infrared (IR) satellite images in the 1990s show counterclockwise circulation at basin scale. A former controversy about the circulation was elucidated in the western basin where IR images helped describe the mesoscale features and demonstrate their role in the circulation. This motivated the detailed analysis of IR daily and weekly composites (~1000) from 1996 to 2000, and of monthly composites since 1985. We show that AW circulates along the upper part of the continental slope in a counterclockwise direction around the whole basin. In the south and all year long, this circulation is unstable and generates mesoscale anticyclonic eddies that spread AW offshore; in the north dense water formation induces larger seasonal variability. These mesoscale eddies, as well as the Etesian-induced eddies Ierapetra and Pelops, can be followed for years, sometimes several hundreds of km away from where they are formed, and they can merge and/or interact with the alongslope circulation.
Molluscan diversity along a Mediterranean soft bottom sublittoral ecotone
Authors: Koulouri Panayota , Dounas Costas , Arvanitidis Christos , Koutsoubas Drosos , Eleftheriou Anastasios
Published: October 2008

Molluscan diversity associated with sublittoral soft-bottoms was studied in Heraklion Bay as part of a long-term multidisciplinary research programme in the coastal environment of northern Crete (eastern Mediterranean). Quantitative benthic samples were collected in a pilot survey from a grid of 28 stations, followed by a seasonal sampling carried out over a seven- station transect located from 10 to 40 m depth. Univariate and multivariate analyses indicated the presence of a clear zonation along the depth gradient for the molluscan fauna and three main associations were identified in bathymetric zones parallel to the coastline. The structure of the local molluscan communities revealed the existence of an extended transition zone (ecotone) between a shallow sandy association and a deeper muddy one and a functional pattern, based on the feeding guilds, was evident along the environmental gradient. Application of graphical techniques, by using molluscan taxocoenosis, indicated a rather naturally disturbed habitat. Beta-diversity measures indicated different seasonal community adaptations to the prevailing environmental conditions. Results derived from this study revealed that beta-diversity may be a good descriptor for the assessment of the strength and breadth of sublittoral transition zones along environmental gradients.
The Indian scad (Decapterus russelli), (Osteichtyes: Carangidae), a new Indo-Pacific fish invader of the eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Golani Daniel
Published: October 2008

The Indian scad, Decapterus russelli, is recorded for the first time from the Mediterranean. The presence of this Indo-Pacific species on the Mediterranean coast of Israel is evidently due to migration from the Red Sea via the Suez Canal. The collection of six specimens in the Mediterranean suggests that this species is well established in the Levant.
Holocene neoglacial events in the Bransfield Strait (Antarctica). Palaeocenographic and paleoclimatic significance
Authors: Bárcena María Ángeles , Fabrés Joan , Isla Enrique , Flores José Abel , Sierro Francisco Javier , Canals Miquel , Palanques Albert
Published: October 2008

Geochemical analysis, micropalaeontological analysis and radiometric dating techniques were performed on four gravity cores, G-1, G-2, A-3 and A-6, recovered during the BIO Hesperides expeditions GEBRA-93 and FRUELA-96 from the Bransfield Strait (Antarctica). Moreover, in order to improve the sedimentation rate control we tentatively relate abundance variations in the sea-ice taxa group (SITG) to air temperature estimations based on Deuterium contents in Vostok ice-core. The results of diatom analyses were related to the sequence of neoglacial events that have occurred over the last three millennia. For these periods, a restricted communication between the Weddell, Bransfield and Bellingshausen seas has been proposed. The abundance patterns of diatom valves, resting spores (RS) of the diatom Chaetoceros and opal content agree with the high productivity values previously reported for the area. The significant reduction Chaetoceros RS towards the present is interpreted as a reduction in surface productivity. Trend differences between Chaetoceros RS and TOC contents are explained in terms of organic matter preservation. Diatom communities from the Bransfield Strait did not play an important role in the global CO2 cycle during cold periods. Bio- and geochemical changes have overprinted high frequency cyclicity at about 200-300 yr, which might be related to the 200-yr solar cycle.
The genus Novafabricia Fitzhugh, 1990 (Polychaeta: Sabellidae: Fabriciinae) along the Italian coast (Mediterranean Sea) with a description of N. posidoniaeThe genus Novafabricia Fitzhugh, 1990 (Polychaeta: Sabellidae: Fabriciina n.sp.
Authors: Licciano Margherita , Giangrande Adriana
Published: October 2008

The new species, Novafabricia posidoniae is described for the Mediterranean Sea, and Novafabricia sp. cf. N. infratorquata (Fitzhugh, 1983) is reported for the eastern Mediterranean basin. The genus Novafabricia Fitzhugh, 1990, represented up to now in the Mediterranean only by N. infratorquata, is recorded for the first time along the Italian coast. Novafabricia posidoniae belongs to the group of Novafabricia species with pseudospatulate chaetae present in thoracic chaetigers 3-5. The addition of this new species raises the number of Novafabricia species to 10.
Spatial and seasonal variation of the gonad index of Diadema antillarum (Echinodermata:Echinoidea) in the Canary Islands
Authors: Hernández José Carlos , Brito Alberto , García Nayra , Gil-Rodríguez María Candelaria , Herrera Guacimara , Cruz-Reyes Alejandro , Falcón Jesús M.
Published: October 2008

Diadema antillarum Philippi occurs in high density populations in the Canary Islands, creating extensive barren areas. During one year we determined seasonal changes in the algal abundance and population densities, test diameter, gut contents and gonad index of sea urchins in two localities (Abades and Boca Cangrejo). Boca Cangrejo shows higher algae cover and species richness than Abades. The sea urchin population at Abades had a higher density and smaller urchins than Boca Cangrejo. Boca Cangrejo sea urchins showed higher specific richness in gut contents than Abades urchins. The sea urchin population at Abades did not have a clearer reproductive periodicity or higher gonad index than the Boca Cangrejo population. Temporal and spatial changes in gonad periodicity of Diadema antillarum are attributed, at least in part, to benthic food availability (algal cover and algal species number) and intra-specific competition.
Modelling the effect of temperature on hatching and settlement patterns of meroplanktonic organisms: the case of octopus
Authors: Katsanevakis Stelios , Verriopoulos George
Published: October 2008

The duration of embryonic development and the planktonic stage of meroplanktonic species is highly temperature dependent and thus the seasonal temperature oscillations of temperate regions greatly affect the patterns of hatching and benthic settlement. Based on data from the literature on embryonic development and planktonic duration of Octopus vulgaris (common octopus) in relation to temperature, and on observed temperature patterns, several models of hatching and settlement patterns were created. There was a good fit between observed settlement patterns and model predictions. Based on these models we concluded that in temperate regions: (1) when temperature is increasing (from early spring to mid summer) the hatching and settlement periods tend to shorten, while when the temperature is decreasing (during autumn) the hatching and settlement periods tend to lengthen; (2) hatching and settlement peaks are narrower and more intense than a spring spawning peak but wider and less intense than an autumn spawning peak; (3) at lower latitudes, hatching and settlement patterns tend to follow the spawning pattern more closely, (4) the periodic temperature pattern of temperate areas has the potential to cause a convergence of hatching during spring.
Seasonal hydrodynamical features on the continental shelf of Colima (west coast of Mexico)
Authors: Salas José , Gomis Damià , Olivos-Ortiz Aramis , Garcia-Uribe Geraldine
Published: October 2008

Four high-resolution hydrographic surveys were carried out in 2002 on the continental shelf of Colima, Pacific coast of Mexico. The data collected revealed the presence of cyclonic and anticyclonic eddy-like features covering the whole extension of the shelf, which is a rather different pattern from the along-shore general circulation described in previous works. Despite the apparent complexity of the circulation features, the overall shelf-slope exchange pattern is similar in autumn and winter and the opposite in spring. In summer the exchanges also have a similar distribution to autumn and winter, but they are restricted to the upper layers. This suggests that the observed circulation features could result from the interaction between the large-scale seasonal circulation and some kind of local forcing.
Preliminary evidences of circadian fan activity rhythm in Sabella spallanzanii (Gmelin, 1791) (Polychaeta: Sabellidae)
Authors: Aguzzi Jacopo , Chiesa Juan José , Caprioli Riccardo , Cascione Davide , Magnifico Giuseppe , Rimatori Valentina , Costa Corrado
Published: October 2008

The fan activity rhythm of Sabella spallanzanii (Gmelin, 1791) and its entrainment capability to light were studied. Animals were tested under constant darkness (DD) followed by two consecutive 24 h light-darkness regimes: a first 11 h light period (LD) and a second 9 h light period, with its phase inverted (DL). An infrared analogical video-camera took shots each 30 s. A number of pictures with open fan were counted every 15 min. In DD a weak free-running periodicity in the circadian range was found, thus reinforcing the matching of the 24 h period under study in both photoperiod regimes. A nocturnal activity was characterised with a consistent anticipation to lightOFF (i.e. entrainment). Moreover, this phase of entrainment differed between DL and LD. The presence of endogenous activity rhythm with a variable phase angle of entrainment is a distinctive feature of circadian pacemakers.
Seasonal variation in the length structure and reproductive condition of the jumbo squid Dosidicus gigas (d’Orbigny, 1835) off central-south Chile
Authors: Ibáñez Christian M. , Cubillos Luis A.
Published: October 2008

In the area off central-south Chile (34-40ºS), a new period of high abundance of Dosidicus gigas has occurred since 2001. The seasonal changes in length structure and reproductive condition of D. gigas in oceanic and coastal waters are described for the period July 2003 to February 2004. The length structure varied significantly between seasons and zones. In the austral winter, medium-sized, maturing individuals were found in oceanic waters while large-sized mature males and maturing females were present in the coastal zone. In the austral spring, maturing medium-sized and large-sized individuals were observed in the oceanic zone. In contrast, two groups of individuals were observed in the coastal zone: one consisting of small and immature individuals, and one consisting of medium-sized maturing specimens. In the austral summer, only the oceanic zone was sampled, and samples contained small immature and maturing medium-sized individuals. We postulate that the spatial and temporal changes in length structure and reproductive condition of D. gigas off central-south Chile are probably due to the existence of a migratory strategy of the species in the study area.
Notes on the biology of the bigeye scad, Selar crumenophthalmus (Carangidae) around Reunion Island, southwest Indian Ocean
Authors: Roos David , Roux Olivier , Conand François
Published: October 2008

The main characteristics of the biology of bigeye scad were studied from commercial fishery catches around Reunion Island. Biometric relationships were calculated. The monitoring of size distribution, aggregated by month, allowed us to estimate the theoretical growth equation using the ELEFAN software. The von Bertalanffy growth parameters were adjusted with a seasonal modulation: L∞ = 265 mm; K = 1.64 year-1; c = 0.068; j = 0.38. The growth of the cohort was quite high during the austral summer (November–April) and decreased during the austral winter (May-October). The arrival of a new cohort with homogeneous small sizes (65 to 90 mm) in the fishery in November coincided with the disappearance of large individuals. A feature of the reproductive biology was that the sex ratio remained constant month by month and that there was no predominance of male or female even in the larger size classes. Fish were mature by April and the proportion of mature fish progressively increased until November, when the gonad-indices were the highest. The size at first maturity (L50) was reached at 215 mm (fork length). The largest specimens observed were 255 mm long (fork length). After reproduction, massive mortality occurred and few individuals survived.
Artificial collection and early growth of spat of the scallop Argopecten purpuratus (Lamarck, 1819), in La Rinconada Marine Reserve, Antofagasta, Chile
Authors: Avendaño D. Miguel , Cantillánez S. Marcela , Thouzeau Gérard , Peña Juan B.
Published: October 2008

Artificial collection of early juveniles (“spat”) of the scallop Argopecten purpuratus in Japanese-type collectors was evaluated between January 2001 and July 2002 in the La Rinconada Marine Reserve, Antofagasta, Chile. This area of Antofagasta Bay has in the past been noted for the retention of scallop larvae by local gyres, in which their numbers can vary between 89 and 34175 larvae m-3, producing larval sets of 400 to 15340 post-larvae (spat) per collector. The results showed no quantitative relationship between larval abundance in the water and the spat density collected per day in the collectors, although high settlement rates were associated with high numbers of umboned larvae in the water. Allowing collectors to remain in situ for extended periods of 88 and 159 days resulted in a severe loss of seed which had settled in the collectors during the first 28 to 40 days of immersion. These losses varied between 50.9 and 99.6% of the spat collected, and were more prejudicial for the smaller cohorts that had settled in the collectors at the end of the first immersion period. The growth rates measured among different cohorts for each immersion period varied between 81.3 and 235.2 mm/day for the first cohort (C1) and between 64.0 and 167.4 mm/day for the second cohort (C2). The highest growth rates occurred in collectors containing the lowest numbers of spat after the occurrence of spat losses during the long periods of immersion. Occurrence of intraspecific competition within the collectors is discussed as potentially responsible for the decreases in spat numbers and the variations observed in their growth rates.
Elderfield, H. (ed.) The Oceans and Marine Geochemistry
Authors: Pelejero Carles , Calvo Eva
Published: October 2008

Not available
Colonisation of the eastern Mediterranean by Red Sea cumaceans, with the description of a new species
Authors: Corbera Jordi , Galil Bella S.
Published: October 2008

In samples collected in the course of the national monitoring programme, two interesting cumacean species were collected on the shallow bottoms (6-14 m) of Haifa Bay, Israel. Scherocumella gurneyi, previously known from the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, is recorded for the first time in the Mediterranean Sea. Eocuma rosae is described as a species new to science. Diagnostic characters such as its flattened carapace bearing a sharp marginal carina, the pair of anteriorlycurved acute horns and the pair of dorsal carinae, place E. rosae with other species of the same genus known from the Indo- Pacific Ocean. It is suggested it entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal.
Spatial distribution, density, and relative growth of Microphrys bicornutus (Latreille, 1826) (Brachyura: Majidae) in five biotopes in a Thalassia complex
Authors: Carmona-Suárez Carlos A.
Published: October 2008

Spatial distribution, population density, number of ovigerous females, and relative growth of Microphrys bicornutus were studied in an extremely shallow Thalassia complex (Buchuaco- Venezuela). Monthly sampling was undertaken in 5 different biotopes (zones) (July 1988 to December 1990). Zone 3 (coral rubble) was the least populated by M. bicornutus. The highest densities were found in Zones 1 (coral rubble and macro algae) and 4 (Thalassia and calcareous algae). Crab size ranged between 1.86 and 35.40 mm (carapace length). The largest mean size was found in Zones 2 and 5, and the smallest in Zone 1. The least mean percentage of ovigerous females was found in Zone 3, and the highest in Zone 5. There were strong temporal fluctuations, with the absence of ovigerous females in the first months of each year. The biometric data showed that pre-pubertal males ranged from 1.80 to 24.20 mm carapace length, and post-pubertals from 15.16 to 26.15. Pre-pubertal females ranged from 3.16 to 20.25 and post-pubertals from 8.84 to 21.85. Zone 3 was the most inadequate biotope for M. bicornutus, as it had the lowest density and the least mean percentage of ovigerous females. Zone 4 was the most appropriate biotope. Temporal absence of ovigerous females and the small sizes of the crabs in Buchuaco could be due to extreme environmental conditions.