Issue 3 Autumn 2014 ISSN 2052-5273 The Marine The magazine of the Biologistmarine biological community

Something in the air?

Marine life in a high CO2 world The US gets serious on global ocean health

White shark populations recover | Azorean lagoons | Inside the squid giant axon Editorial Issue 3 Autumn 2014 Do we need ‘ocean optimism’? Contents So, are there grounds for ocean A very warm welcome to The optimism or are science commu- Marine Biologist magazine. nicators telling good news stories 02 Editorial Scientists tend to be a cautious to stave off apathy and helpless- 04 In brief lot, having much to lose from over- ness? I would be interested to hear egging the implications of their reader’s views on this question. Science letters Editorial Office findings. This may explain why There are a host of careers under 06 Losers and winners in a high CO2 world Juliet Brodie, Editor Guy Baker good news is often wrapped up in the umbrella of ‘marine biology’. In Chris Williamson & Jason Hall-Spencer caveats and qualifications, so that if this issue we offer information and [email protected] things turn out worse than predicted, advice on a career in marine biology 08 Not all algae who wander are lost Erik E Sotka & Stacy A +44 (0)1752 633244 expectations have not been dashed. for young people. There are around Krueger-Hadfield Executive editor Matt Frost And it is a media maxim that bad 16 UK universities that offer BSc 10 Growing white shark populations in US waters Chris Lowe [email protected] news sells. Scientists want to present Hons degrees in marine biology, Seeing in the dark: eye reduction and loss in +44 (0)1752 633334 credible evidence, newspaper editors and we begin a regular feature in 11 deep-sea snails Lauren Sumner-Rooney Editorial Board Guy Baker, want to sell papers; it’s hardly which staff and students from one of Kelvin Boot, Matt Frost, Paul surprising that we are fed a diet of these institutions tell you why you Environment and conservation Rose, Mike Thorndyke. environmental doom and gloom. should consider studying there. Membership Alex Street Please bear with me while I hold It is 75 years since Hodgkin and 12 Protected but still vulnerable? Lagoonal wetlands 06 [email protected] off from bucking a perfectly good Huxley’s Nobel Prize winning work on in the Azores Brian Morton +44 (0)1752 633337 trend. According to recent research the squid giant axon - a classic example 16 Evidence: the key to local marine conservation Martin Goodall www.mba.ac.uk/membership (summarized in our headline article of research using a marine organism Correspondence on page 6), it is likely that kelp having far-reaching consequences for Policy forests will disappear from southern our understanding of basic biology. The Marine Biological Association 18 The US gets serious on global ocean health Phil Williamson & Citadel Hill, Plymouth, PL1 2PB, UK parts of the north-east Atlantic – a Page 29 features the least interesting Carol Turley The Marine Biologist is published by shocking prediction of just one of the photograph about one of the most the Marine Biological Association, effects of climate warming and ocean fascinating chapters in the history 21 England’s MPAs – towards a well-managed network Registered Charity No. 1155893 acidification on coastal ecosystems. of marine biological research. The Jen Ashworth & Leanne Stockdale ISSN number: 2052-5273 But should we focus on the seem- picture shows the physical remnants Sharing marine science Submissions ingly inexorable degradation of the of world-famous research, but I like it We welcome submissions of original biosphere or is this counterproductive? because it jars with the perception of 22 Marinexus - cross channel cooperation Mark Cock, John Bishop & and relevant material, letters and In this issue we discover that apex scientists as single-minded and serious Tim Smyth 10 responses to published articles. For predators, including north-east Pacific and is a reminder that those who guidance, please see the magazine 25 Seas, society, health and wellbeing Michael Depledge, Ben Wheeler & website at white shark populations, are showing carried out that research were ordinary Mat White www.mba.ac.uk/marinebiologist signs of recovery (see page 10). At the people with a sense of humour. or contact the Editor. ‘Our Ocean’ conference (covered on I hope you find plenty to interest 27 Marine life recording Becky Seeley Disclaimer: Views expressed page 18), some of the world’s most you in issue 3 and that as members you 28 The first International Marine Science Communication in The Marine Biologist are powerful people asked scientists to are satisfied Conference Guy Baker those of the authors and do not share their knowledge about ocean with the way necessarily represent those of the 28 Inside the squid giant axon David Sims Marine Biological Association. issues, and help develop an Action Plan our magazine Copyright statement. Anyone wishing to address them. This year, increased is taking shape. 29 A career in marine biology Paul Greer to reproduce material published in protection has been declared for an As always I am One hundred and thirty-five years of marine biology at the The Marine Biologist must contact area of ocean roughly the size of India keen to hear 30 University of Liverpool Bryony Caswell the Marine Biological Association. (including the world’s largest marine feedback and protected area, the Pacific Remote suggestions for 32 Reviews INE BIOL R O Islands Marine National Monument). improvement. A G M I 34 Oyster harvesting was not always as traditional as now C

E

A

H L R. B. Williams T

A 18 S N Obituary – Professor Laurence Mee S O 34 O C I ATI Est. 1884 Incorporated by Front cover: An image of the red ripple bryozoan (Watersipora subatra). This is a non- Royal Charter 2013 indigenous species spreading rapidly in Great Britain following its first recorded occurrence in 2008. Image: John Bishop, the scale is 4 mm across the page. Back cover: Juvenile grey seal Image credits: Top: Juliet Brodie. Middle: www.mba.ac.uk (Halichoerus grypus) in the Scilly Isles. Image: Sue Daly www.suedalyproductions.com Kevin Weng. Bottom: US State Department.

02 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 03 In brief In brief

Welcome to the plastisphere: Wind farms and apex predators community echo those expressed in 2011 waters, and occupying a unique posi- communicating marine conservation. more scientific data were needed in order biota may be more efficient at A study led by Dr. Deborah Russell when the first deep-sea mining licence tion at the air-sea interface, the SML is A stated aim of the conference was to create efficient policies. Chair of the taking up microplastics from the University of St. Andrews, was issued to the Canadian company central to a range of global biogeochemi- to catalyse change and delegates left Marine Policy Session Abigail McQuatters- In June a study carried out by the Scotland showed that harbour seals and Nautilus to explore a large area of the cal and climate-related processes. with a clear inspirational message to Gollop explained in her blog: “As we get University of Cadiz, gathering data from grey seals display grid-like movement Bismarck Sea floor. Mining activities result share positive and inspiring stories more information we can change our the circumpolar expedition Malaspina patterns at offshore wind farm sites. This in over 90% of waste, and risks include about the ocean and conservation work management plans, but we have to act 2010 and various other reports, confirmed type of movement is associated with increased turbidity and toxicity, and as a way of encouraging conserva- now” (see planktonpolicy.org/blog). a worldwide distribution of plastic in the foraging effort, suggesting that animals irreversible damage to unique habitats. tion action in wider society. See the With this statement she echoed one surface of the ocean, accumulating in the adjust their behaviour to make use of A recent review published in the journal hashtag #oceanoptimism on Twitter. of the key messages of the confer- five ocean gyres and in Arctic sea ice. these anthropogenic structures. “Eco- Geosciences summarises the services and Spreading the word about ocean ence: we need to learn how to use the However, estimates of the amount of plas- logical consequences of animal-structure functions of deep-sea habitats, and shows literacy in the US and the EU data that we already have in order to tic were much lower than expected. One interactions are still uncertain and further how vital the deep-sea is in supporting The Marine Biological Association stop delaying actions that are critical hypothesis regarding the fate of the miss- our current way of life. Lead author of the is part of a growing movement to help to achieving conservation aims. ing plastic is that—following degradation to review Andrew Thurber stated: “there’s citizens become ‘ocean literate’. Sharks and rays are important, microplastic—it has entered the food web. this idea that we don’t know anything The National Marine Educators Associa- make no bones about it Marine invertebrates are known to about the deep-sea […], we know tion (NMEA) was formed in the US in 1976 Professor David Sims, Senior Research ingest microplastics. But recent research enough to start to understand how our to bring together scientists and marine Fellow at the MBA, is convening the led by the University of Exeter, UK dem- actions can impact the environment”. educators to ‘make known the world of Fisheries Society of the British Isles onstrated that inhalation through gills and New MPAs in Scottish waters water both fresh and salt’. In 2004 work (FSBI) symposium in Plymouth on the gill-like structures of marine organisms is In July, Richard Lockhead, Scottish The SCOR (Scientific Committee on began on the development of the ‘Ocean topic of “The Biology, Ecology and also a significant pathway for microplas- Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Oceanic Research) SML working group Literacy Framework’ with its seven essen- Conservation of Elasmobranchs”. tics into the food web. Inhalation leads the Environment, announced the crea- brings scientists together from several tial principles; these are now seen as the to a residence time up to six times higher tion of 30 new Marine Protected Areas disciplines to consider chemical, biologi- foundation for teaching about the ocean than ingestion, increasing significantly its (MPAs) in Scottish waters. The sites, 17 cal and physical aspects of the SML, and in both formal and informal education. risk of being passed up the food web. within territorial waters and 13 offshore, to understand governing mechanisms in The NMEA annual conference provides This year has seen a real effort in contribute to a network of MPAs estab- its formation and role in biogeochemi- an opportunity for educators to network scientific research regarding plastic lished by the Scottish government. cal cycling and climate science. and share resources and inspiration. pollution but also in policy initiatives, The creation of these new sites Members of the working group have Supported by the NMEA’s scholar- Grey seals. Image: Guy Baker. (e.g. in the US the ban of microbeads in contributes to the UK’s commitment under produced a guide to best practices to ship scheme, MBA Education Team Illinois, and of single-use plastic bags in research is necessary”, say Dr. Russell international legislation and conventions study the ocean’s surface, which is freely member Fiona Crouch travelled in July California). Kara Law of the Sea Education and her colleagues. “With the increas- to take measures to conserve available to download via the working to Annapolis, USA for the the 2014 Association and Richard Thompson of ing development of marine renewable biodiversity and protect the marine group website (http://www.scor-int. conference. Fiona presented on the Plymouth University, two of the world’s energies, it is likely that more and more environment, including the creation of an org/Working_Groups/wg141.htm). MBA’s education work and EMSEA, leading researchers in the field, recently apex predators will encounter wind farms ecologically coherent network of MPAs. Cunliffe M. & Wurl O. (2014) Guide and attended the Global Ocean Literacy called for urgent action to ‘turn off the or other anthropogenic structures.” They were selected collaboratively to best practices to study the ocean’s meeting prior to the main conference. tap’ and divert plastic waste away Deep-sea mining by the Joint Nature Conservation surface. Occasional Publications of the The EMSEA 2014 conference in The symposium will take place from the marine environment. Profes- Seven new exploration licences were Committee (JNCC) and Scottish Marine Biological Association of the Gothenburg, Sweden wrapped up as we on 27th – 31st July 2015. sor Thompson attended the US State issued in July by the UN’s International Natural Heritage to help protect important United Kingdom, Plymouth, UK. 118 pp. go to press. More detail on the out- References and links for these Department ‘Our Oceans Conference’ Seabed Authority towards the deep-sea habitats such as seagrass beds, kelp comes of these conferences and ocean Conferences and events stories can be found on The Marine (see page 18) where he urged society to mining of precious minerals. The permits forests and maerl beds, and deep-sea literacy developments will appear in the Biologist website. Scan the QR “reduce, reuse and recycle” plastics. have been secured by, amongst others, ecosystems such as coral reefs and Share positive stories, says next edition of The Marine Biologist. code to view the web page. Russia, Germany, Brazil, Singapore and sponge beds. The MPAs will safeguard Glasgow conference Plymouth hosts the 16th the UK, and allow for the mining of various these important ecosystems and will in the International Marine Conservation Challenger conference valuable mineral deposits as sources of Richard Lockhead’s words “enhance our Congress (IMCC3), which was held in The Challenger Conference for copper, cobalt, gold and manganese. marine environment so that it remains Glasgow, Scotland in September, is one of Marine Science arrived in Plymouth, Interest in deep-sea mining is soaring a prized asset for future generations”. the most important gatherings of marine UK this year and welcomed scientists to respond to the increasing demand Sampling the ocean surface – a conservation professionals and students and students from all over the world. of our current economies for minerals, free guide on the global conference calendar. Policy has only recently been For marine events, see the particularly in the technology industry. The sea surface microlayer (SML) IMCC3 aimed to develop new and included in the Challenger Confer- UK Marine Science Events The seven new licences bring is the boundary interface between the powerful tools to further marine conser- ence discussions, but linking scientific Calendar at www.mba.ac.uk the total area licensed to 1.2 million atmosphere and ocean, covering 70% vation science and policy. Discussion research with management emerged For the latest news from the km² under 26 different licences, with of the Earth’s surface. With physico- topics ranged from genetics, modelling as one of the hottest topics. UK marine science community subscribe to the Marine Ripple Effect Marine debris on the Hawaiian coast. operations set to begin in 2016. chemical and biological properties that and human impacts to planning and One major debate that arose during the Image: NOAA. Source: marinedebris.noaa. or follow on Twitter Warnings raised by the scientific are measurably distinct from underlying management, valuing our oceans and Marine Policy session was whether or not @MarineRipple gov/marinedebris101/photos_ecosys.html

04 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 05 Science letters

southern, mid and northern parts of the north-east line seaweed habitats. The calcified

Atlantic by 2100 if CO2 emissions are not reduced. algae may look like inert pink paint The outcome is that predicted changes in ecosystem on the rocks but they emit chemicals Losers and winners structure are expected to have serious implications for that trigger shellfish settlement when ecosystem functioning and services, and for the fortunes they metamorphose from free- in a high CO2 world of fisheries that are supported by these communities. swimming larval forms to adulthood. The workshop considered the fate of fleshy and calcified In contrast, we predict that invasive seaweeds, seagrasses and the microphytobenthos (MPB). species will thrive, exploiting both Juliet Brodie, Chris Williamson The fleshy algae will be familiar to anyone who visits niches left vacant by the loss of native and Jason Hall-Spencer the shore, as these include the habitat-forming kelp species, and space provided by the

Maerl from Iceland. Image: Juliet Brodie. Maerl from Iceland. Image: assess the future of northeast (Laminariales) and the fucoids (Fucales) that cover spread of artificial marine structures Atlantic seaweeds and many sea shores. Kelp forests are some of the most produc- such as coastal defences, human-made seagrasses tive ecosystems on Earth and along with the fucoids cover reefs and wind turbines. Seagrasses are approximately three times the area of woodland in the UK. also predicted to be winners as they can The calcified seaweeds include crustose, free-living (maerl) benefit from increased carbon availabil- and branched species. Maerl beds provide habitat for a ity under future ocean conditions. Sea- rich flora and fauna forming ‘hotels’ for invertebrates and grasses will likely expand their range in here juvenile fish. Seagrass beds are extensive in the north-east all regions of the north-eastern Atlantic, is no Atlantic and play a vital role in storing carbon. Their leaves provided they can withstand competi- Tdoubt that provide a habitat for a range of epiphytes, notably crustose tion from invasive seaweeds and are seaweed and seagrass calcified seaweeds. MPB include cyanobacteria, diatoms, protected from other human impacts communities on shores and in shallow seas of the dinoflagellates and life history stages of the seaweeds. They such as dredging. However, their north-east Atlantic are changing, and that the provide a food source for thousands of species of grazing and epiphytic cover of crustose calcified pace of change is increasing at an alarming rate. If you deposit-feeding organisms and stabilize coastal mud flats. seaweeds is predicted to reduce or disap- take a look at the seashore along the south-west coast of Some of these algae are symbionts with other organisms and pear, while diatoms may well proliferate Kelp forest and animals. Image: Paul Naylor www.marinephoto.co.uk England, for example, you will see rock pools stuffed full others live in shellfish and can be severely toxic to humans. in their place. Whilst less is known more toxic under future conditions. monitoring of the changes occurring of seaweeds that, on closer inspection, are often dominated Our predictions indicate that there will be some losers about them, diatoms are again predicted On the whole, the predictions along our shores is required to allow a by non-native species such as the large brown seaweeds and some winners over the rest of this century. Warming will to increase in abundance based on evi- provide a clarion call for action on clear assessment of the consequences

Sargassum muticum (wireweed) and Undaria pinnatifida likely kill off kelp forests in southern parts of the north- dence of these communities from CO2 two fronts. Firstly, urgent reduc- of these changes. Our future coastal (wakame). We know of 44 non-native seaweed species in east Atlantic; cool water adapted kelps and fucoids have seeps. Compared to the seaweeds and tions in greenhouse gas emissions are marine communities will be very the north-east Atlantic; whilst not all of these are invasive, already undergone significant changes in their distribution seagrasses, we require a much deeper needed to curb runaway warming and different to what we see today, and we species continue to arrive at an increasing rate. The region is with losses reported from several regions of the north-east understanding of the tinier organisms ocean acidification; this is a global need a greater understanding of what undergoing such a rapid rate of acidification and warming Atlantic. Maerl beds are predicted to disappear from the in life. Crucially, the impact of high phenomenon that is having real-time this means for the human communities that we expect this to combine with the spread of invasive northern parts due to falling levels of carbonate (from which CO2 on toxic dinoflagellates needs to impacts on our coastal systems and that rely on these important resources. 1 species to drive radical changes in coastal ecosystems. their calcified skeletons are made). We know from CO2 seeps be given more consideration as there is requires global action to prevent Juliet Brodie ([email protected]) In June 2013, we brought together a group of phy- around the world that calcified seaweeds are corroded and some evidence that they may become future catastrophe. Secondly, careful Chris Williamson1 (williamsoncj@ cardiff.ac.uk) and Jason Hall- cologists to brainstorm these problems and deliberate outcompeted in acidified seawater. Not only will fish that Eelgrass at Studland on England’s south coast. Image: Paul Naylor www.marinephoto.co.uk Spencer2 (jason.hall-spencer@ on what will happen to marine plants and algae in the depend upon kelp be lost but so will shellfish from coral- plymouth.ac.uk) 1. Life Sciences Department, Kelp at extreme low tide, Combe Martin, Devon, southwest England. Juvenile scallop on maerl off Falmouth, southwest England. Genomics and Microbial Biodiversity Image: Juliet Brodie. Image: Jason Hall-Spencer. Division at the Natural History Museum. 2. School of Marine Science and Engineering (Faculty of Science & Environment), Plymouth University. FURTHER READING Brodie J., Williamson C.J., Smale D.A., Kamenos N.A., Mieszkowska N., Santos R., Cunliffe M., Steinke M., Yesson Y., Anderson K.M., Asnaghi V., Brownlee C., Burdett H.L., Burrows M., Collins S., Donohughe P., Harvey B., Foggo A., Noisette F., Nunes J., Raggazola F., Raven J.A., Schmidt D.N., Suggett D., Teichberg M. and Hall-Spencer J.M. (2014) The future of the NE Atlantic benthic flora in a

high CO2 world. Ecology and Evolution. Volume 4, Issue 13, pages 2787–2798, July 2014.

06 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 07 Science letters Invasive non-native species – terms, schemes and resources are important to management strate- a behaviour benefiting both worm and three years, we will use population TMB writes: Biological inva- native species are considered to be more at www.nonnativespecies. gies as they provide information on Gverm. The non-native Gverm gains genetic data that reconstruct invasive sions are considered to be one of invasive, but when they are, they org/index.cfm?sectionid=15 ) where and how to target our resources a foothold in shallow water where history and common-garden experi- the biggest threats to the integrity are known as INNS. (Find out A new surveillance scheme has toward prevention, mitigation or both. photosynthesis is possible. The native ments that compare phenotypes among of ecosystems worldwide. In the been launched for the brown alga Are invasive populations increasing or worm ‘farms’ small prey (e.g. amphi- native and non-native populations. marine environment, contain- Undaria pinnatifida (wakame). stabilizing in number? What are their pods, isopods and decapod larvae) Over the last sixty years, we have ment and eradication of invasive Find out more at “wakame impacts? And how did a particular and simultaneously seeks refuge in the witnessed an enormous homogeniza- non-native species (INNS) are watch” on www.facebook.com species succeed when others failed? 3D structure created by the seaweed. tion of the Earth’s biota. At face value, problematic, leading to a greater The MBA’s Bishop Group have We have been attempting to answer We believe Gverm may have this is dispiriting, given the clarion call emphasis on prevention and published a new waterproof iden- these questions with an non-native succeeded where other seaweeds to action that Dr Elton provided. At understanding of invasion biology. tification guide for selected marine red seaweed called Gracilaria ver- have failed due to rapid evolutionary the same time, biologists have learned In the magazine there are non-native species. An electronic miculophylla (or Gverm). Gverm is changes enabling particular strains an enormous amount about the eco- references to ‘non-native’ and version can be downloaded for free originally from the north-west Pacific, of Gverm to spread. Seaweeds in logy and demography of invasion. This ‘invasive’ species. Not all non- from www.mba.ac.uk/bishop but invaded most temperate estuaries the genus Gracilaria (ogonori) have ecological knowledge has been used of eastern and western North America been used as a source of agar in the to successfully prevent other invasions and Europe within the last 30–40 years. Japanese mariculture industry for and mitigate their impacts. Ultimately, Erik Sotka and Stacy Krueger-Hadfield Therefore, it is arguably one of the most at least 300 years. Gverm itself was we hope that using Gverm as a case geographically widespread and success- intensively cultivated for its high study, we can help understand to what describe an unusually successful ful invasions in the ocean that has ever quality agar. Cultivation practices extent microevolution should be incor- Not all algae invasion—and a novel partnership. been recorded. In Atlantic estuaries of impose artificial selection, not unlike porated into management decisions. the south-eastern United States, Gverm what occurs in terrestrial crops and Dr Erik E. Sotka ([email protected]), n his classic 1958 book The ecology of invasions by arrived around 2003 and within 10 ornamental plants. Algal individuals, Associate Professor. who wander animals and plants, an English zoologist named years, the biomass has dramatically or genotypes, are chosen based on agar Dr Stacy A. Krueger-Hadfield ICharles Elton warned of the growing scourge of increased to cover upwards of 100% yield, recovery and growth rates, and ([email protected]), Post-doctoral invasive species, or species which humans acci- of some high-salinity mudflats (inset these same hardy genotypes are likely Fellow. dentally or intentionally introduced outside their image). We are currently using DNA- able to withstand large fluctuations Grice Marine Laboratory, College of native range. The book arrived when the threat based tools to understand the history in temperature, salinity and light. To Charleston, Charleston, SC 29412, of nuclear Armageddon was constant, but Elton of this incredibly rapid expansion. Our confirm these suspicions, over the next USA. are lost argued boldly and persuasively that the impacts of preliminary evidence suggests that the rodent, plant and insect pests on native ecosystems seaweed spread to Europe and the west were tantamount to the effects of a nuclear bomb. coast of the United States via exporta- The “ecological explosions” of invasive species are tion of Japanese oysters sometime after “not making such a loud noise and taking a longer World War II. Within coastlines, the time, but just as impressive.” Unfortunately, in spread of Gverm was likely facilitated the intervening 65 years since Elton’s book raised by commercial and recreational gear awareness of the issue, the rates of invasion have that harvests native shrimp and crabs. not just continued unabated, but accelerated. Gverm has the potential to trans- Today, non-native species occur virtually every- form ecosystems into which it is where, including within our oceans and estuaries. As introduced by outcompeting native an example, over 400 species of marine macroalgae, seaweeds, adding structural complexity or seaweeds, have been introduced into coastal to mudflats and altering detrital and habitats worldwide. Some of these introductions consumptive food webs. It is important were intentional, such as seaweeds grown for food, to remember, however, that in common fertilizer or extractable compounds. Wakame, the with many invasive species, some of the brown seaweed Undaria pinnatifida, is consumed ecological impacts of Gverm are posi- widely and was intentionally introduced to Europe tive. In Atlantic estuaries of the south- during the 20th century. However, many seaweeds eastern United States, the invasive are introduced accidentally, either by hitching a Gverm has formed a novel mutualism ride with commercially-produced invertebrates with a native decorator worm called (e.g. oysters), as insulation during 19th century Diopatra cuprea (Figure 1). Much as shipping (e.g. fucoids) or released into local a spider weaves a web, the decorator waters after being part of the aquarium trade (e.g. worm produces mucus-based tubes Caulerpa taxifolia, nicknamed killer algae). embedded in mudflats. The worm Fig. 1. A tube cap formed by Diopatra cuprea, to which Gverm has been added as decora- Critical questions persist, the answers to which then decorates its home with Gverm, tion. Image: Stacy A. Krueger-Hadfield.

08 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 09 Science letters Science letters

ver the last 50 years, a growing army of scientists have Seeing in the dark: eye reduction been busy documenting and warning of the systematic Odegradation of the marine environment as the result and loss in deep-sea snails of anthropogenic influences. These effects have been well Lauren Sumner-Rooney documented in areas of high human population growth and density, particularly California, where coastal popula- nimals live in darkness all over the world. Whether tions have grown from a few hundred thousand to over 28 they live in caves, burrows or the ocean abyss, they million people in a little more than a century. As a result Ashare many common features such as a lack of of this rapid population growth and coastal development, coloration and long, slender limbs and antennae. The loss California experienced some of the worst coastal air and of eyesight is one of the most profound and widely-reported of these. Over 150 years ago, this phenomenon was a source water quality problems, overfishing, and coastal habitat of frustration for Darwin, who could not understand any loss observed anywhere in the US between the 1920s and disadvantage to eyesight and decided the loss of eyes must be Ilanga laevissima, a shallow-water solariellid snail with fully- 1990s. These effects prompted a wide range of landmark ‘attributed wholly to disuse’. Since then, several authors have formed eyes. Image: Professor Dai Herbert. federal, state legislation and other regulations designed Sea lions Zalophus californianus and (foreground) northern elephant seal Mirounga angustirostris. Image: Jeff Harris. demonstrated that there is in fact a selective pressure for eye particular combinations in different species, indicating that to restore marine populations and ecosystem health. loss: it reduces energy wasted on growing and maintaining the order of reduction events can be surprisingly variable. Typically, the organisms most affected by this wide array have probably impacted the white shark population for such a costly and redundant feature. But how exactly does an For example in some species, the eyes were almost perfectly of anthropogenic influences are top predators, which occur at over 100 years4,5. In 2011, a research group from central animal lose its eyes over time? Many reports of dark-living intact but covered over by skin, and in others they remained low abundances and are strongly dependent on lower trophic California published a study attempting a population animals describe gradients of eye loss, indicating that the pro- at the surface but lacked pigmentation and other important levels. Marine meso and apex predator populations (e.g. tel- estimate for white sharks in the north-east Pacific and cess is successive and constrained. There have been numerous structures. In one case two completely different eye condi- eost fish, sharks, pinnipeds and cetaceans) experienced signifi- concluded that there may be as few as 350 adults and that studies specifically focusing on Astyanax mexicanus, a fresh- tions have even evolved within a single genus. There was cant declines over the last 100 years, primarily due to direct the population was lower than other large marine preda- water fish that has several independently blind cave-dwelling some evidence for limited constraint—we did not find that harvesting or by-catch mortality in fisheries, and secondarily tors6. However, more recent studies have concluded that populations. These studies have shown that a change to lens the optic nerve was damaged in any of the species examined, impacted by coastal habitat loss and poor water quality population estimates for white sharks in the north-east development is responsible for blindness in many cases and for example—but the extent of the variation shown in eye resulting in reduced forage fish productivity1. However, over Pacific are more likely an order of magnitude greater than that certain genes are implicated again and again in inde- anatomy in different species clearly shows that the process the last 20 years there is growing evidence of population that estimated in the Stanford study and that the popula- pendent cases of eye loss. However, no one has yet objectively of eye loss is highly plastic. By plotting the evolution of recovery for many meso and apex marine predators through- tion appears healthy and growing, despite some fisheries studied the series of morphological changes that contribute each character (e.g. loss of pigment and lens fragmentation) to eye loss throughout a larger group of animals to determine out California and US waters. Populations of marine meso by-catch mortality7,8,9,10. Improvements in water quality on a phylogenetic tree, we can conclude that eye reduction whether the process is in fact constrained and predictable. has evolved at least five times in solariellids, and that the predators (e.g. white seabass, giant black seabass, leopard and fisheries management are the most likely explanation In a collaborative study with the Natural History process of eye loss often differs between these instances. sharks and tope) have been increasing since prohibition of for increasing population growth of marine predators Museum, London, I am studying eye morphology in a As eye loss has evolved several times independently, here in California waters, and similar trends have been family of marine snails called solariellids. They are found we are essentially able to examine a naturally replicated 11 Growing white shark observed for western Atlantic white sharks as well . globally from the coast to the abyss and have very simple evolutionary experiment. Other factors which shape the Recovery of meso and apex predator populations eyes, so they make an excellent model evolution of animal vision such as is indicative of recovery for studying depth-related changes to habitat, physiological constraints and populations in US of ecosystem anatomy. After looking through 109 evolutionary heritage, remain largely func- specimens of 29 species under the similar throughout the study group. waters – a sign of tion microscope, it was clear that many Of course, there are almost certainly and deep-sea species display some form of ecological differences between these ecosystem recovery? coastal eye alteration. Several had eyes that species that we cannot account for, as food webs. were sunken beneath the skin and most of these animals are highly inac- Top marine predators appear to be making a It is interesting many lacked pigmented eyes alto- cessible and few (if any) live observa- gether. We examined the eyes of nine tions have ever been made of them. comeback in US waters. By Chris Lowe. to note that while legislation White shark, shallow and deep water species more However, the fact that under similar and regulations put in place to Carcharodon closely by embedding them in a plastic conditions several closely-related snails near shore gillnets and overall reductions in commercial improve air and water quality, and to carcharias. Image: Fig 1. Tomographic model of the eye of the resin and cutting them into sections evolve eye loss very differently, or not fishing in California introduced in the mid-1990s2. Many reduce overfishing and by-catch mortality Kevin Weng. marine snail Bathymophila diadema, with 1.5 µm thick. From the sections we at all, is very interesting indeed. The north-east Pacific marine mammals have shown remarkable were not necessarily intended to protect nerves shown in purple and body outline in reconstructed digital models of the eyes evolution of loss is an intriguing field population recovery over the last 40 years, some growing or restore white shark populations. These combined brown. Image: Lauren Sumner-Rooney. (see Figure 1) in three dimensions and of study which requires more attention, at rates of 6–10% annually. In 2012 NOAA concluded actions have likely been essential in driving the white compared their structure between species. where modern anatomical techniques can shed much light that the California sea lion population had reached carry- shark population trends currently seen in US waters. Even amongst such closely related animals, we found a on historical problems such as eye reduction. By studying ing capacity with numbers of approximately 300,000, a Chris Lowe ([email protected]) is Director of the surprising amount of variation and a wide range of mor- the evolution of vision and sensory systems, we can better 3 dramatic increase from only 2,000 estimated in 1920 . CSULB Shark Laboratory, Department of Biological phological features, many of which were invisible from the understand how animals interact with their environment Historic depletion of marine mammal populations Sciences, California State University, Long Beach. outside. Five out of nine species showed clear signs of eye and the evolutionary implications that such study holds. since the early 1900s, reduction of fish populations due to FURTHER READING reduction including loss of retinal pigmentation, reduction Lauren Sumner-Rooney (lsumnerrooney01@qub. pollution and overfishing in the 1940s–1990s, and fish- References for this article are available in full at www.mba. in size, sinking beneath the skin and degradation of the ac.uk) won ‘best oral presentation’ at the Postgraduate ing mortality of juvenile white sharks in the 1980s–1990s ac.uk/marinebiologist/issue-3-white-shark-populations-recover lens. Most intriguingly, these features did not appear in any Conference in Hull. Lauren is a member of the MBA.

10 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 11 Environment & conservation Environment & conservation

tive with regard to the marine environment. Within the tip of São Jorge from the northernmost shore of the Protected, but still vulnerable? Directive, lagoons are classified as priority habitat types. lagoon. Not now, however. Since the 1757 earthquake, Coastal lagoons—‘Areas of shallow, coastal saline water, the present, shrunken, landforms of the two platforms [either] wholly or partially separated from the sea by have been shaped by a combination of marine and, to a Lagoonal wetlands in the Azores sandbanks, shingle, or less frequently rocks [or boulder lesser extent, freshwater erosion. Today, both fajãs enclose ramparts in the Azores]’—constitute sites for which there lagoons (lagoas), which are separated and protected from Brian Morton makes the case for designation of two lagoons is some national/regional obligation to establish Special the sea by boulder ramparts. Both also receive freshwater as World Heritage Sites Areas of Conservation (SACs). Within the framework inputs from groundwater reservoirs within the island, of this definition, four intertidal areas can be recognized and the gently sloping platforms landward of the lagoons ocated in the North Atlantic Ocean about 1,500 km latter in temperate environments topped by dune fields. They as definable Azorean lagoons. Of these, I consider two are occupied by tiny agricultural and fishing villages. from Europe and 1,900 km from North America, the are also, typically, young and dynamic and may be short-lived to be worthy of World Heritage Site status, as follows: Fajã dos Cubres LAzores is a remote archipelago (Figure 1) comprising in overall geological terms. Coastal lagoons are also defined The Fajãs dos Cubres and Santo Cristo, São Jorge The lagoon of Fãja dos Cubres is situated on the north nine islands and several islets of recent volcanic origin as coupled systems, which, under the influence of the tides Of all the Azorean scenery none is more magnificent than shore of São Jorge some 2 km to the west of Fãja de Santo spread over 600 km of ocean. My most recent research and freshwater runoff, are both the givers and receivers of the view from the top of the near-vertical cliffs above the Cristo. The fãja comprises a shallow, 2 m deep, lagoon on the islands, which was published in the Journal of the nutrients and sediments that accumulate over time. Such north shore of the island of São Jorge (Figure 2). From near contained within a coastal platform and protected from Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, exchanges are facilitated by inlets. The number and size of the the middle of the island’s 27 km length, looking east, one the sea by a tall boulder rampart. Morton et al. (1985) involved a survey of the island’s marine bivalves and showed inlets, rates of precipitation, evaporation and the inflows of can see two coastal platforms each containing a lagoon, or showed that the lagoon is influenced primarily by fresh (Morton et al., 2013) that in these productivity-poor waters fresh water all affect the character of a lagoon. Typically too, fajã. Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã de Santo Cristo were formed water draining from the land behind, but is also affected species were less diverse, less numerous and, on average, lagoons are fringed by mangroves in the tropics and marsh contemporaneously by massive landslides resulting from by seawater percolating with the rise and fall of the tides half the size of their mainland European conspecifics. plants, Juncus, in temperate zones, and are host to unique a violent earthquake on 9 July 1757, with its epicentre at through the seaward rampart. In 1951, a small causeway I first visited the Azores, however, in 1965 as a member suites of benthic organisms which interract dynamically with Calheta. Forjaz & Fernandez (1975) concluded that the was built between the land, central lagoonal islets and the of the Chelsea (now King’s) College, University of the lagoon floor sediments to create a rich ecosystem that is volume of debris dislocated from the cliffs would have seaward rampart, dividing the lagoon into eastern and London, Azores Expedition and published my observa- especially important, for example, for resident and migrat- been six times greater than that presently in existence. western sections, which have thereby become predominantly tions on the molluscs and on the lagoon of Fajã de ing sea birds. The environmental conditions of lagoons are There is historical, colloquial, evidence in support of this. freshwater and seawater influenced, respectively (Figures inherently variable, both spatially and temporally, and in the In 1924, Padre da Cunha recorded that the Santo 2 & 3). The lagoon is fringed virtually along its entire historical short and geological long terms. Such variations are Cristo lagoon was closed to the sea and bigger than perimeter by a Juncus acutus marsh that, in turn, is fringed unique to lagoons and reflect, in part, their formation, evolu- today. He recorded that then, for example, one could see internally by a widgeon grass, Ruppia maritima, bed. This is tion and loss, latterly often through neglect and development. the Islet of Topo, some 9 km to the east on the western the only locality in the Azores where this seagrass occurs. The inherent variability of lagoons imparts environmental Fig. 2. Fajã dos Cubres, Calheta, ilha de São Jorge, Azores. Image: José Luís Ávila Silveira/Pedro Noronha e Costa. stresses upon what are highly specialized ecosystems, resulting in the development of unique communities of plants and animals. Perhaps owing to their geographical isolation too, similar habitat regimes can be encountered but the commu- nities present in them are rarely predictable, and the species present show stochastic variations in terms of recruitment, occurrence and relative significance. These specialist lagoon species are thus restricted to extremely narrow niches along narrow stretches of the coastline and, as the lagoons them- Fig. 1. Map showing the location of the Azores archipelago. selves evolve and change, so do their resident communities. In the past, lagoonal wetlands/marshlands were not Santo Cristo, in São Jorge, subsequently (Anon, 1967). regarded as important and worldwide many have been I have since returned to the archipelago many times drained, filled and developed over. In that small south- principally in connection with the research for and writ- eastern quadrant of England where I now live, for example, ing of the book Ecologia Costeira dos Azores (Coastal salt marshes and their associated lagoons have been erod- Ecology of the Azores). Chapter 10 of this book dealt ing rapidly for about the last 50 years, at a continuing with marine conservation particularly with regard to the rate of some 40 hectares per year. It is recognized today, few wetland areas found in the Azores—all lagoonal. however, that each lagoon is unique and they are receiv- Coastal lagoons are shallow bodies of water separated from ing degrees of protection and conservation not hitherto the sea, by barriers. Lagoons are commonly divided into two contemplated. In 1992, the EU Habitats Directive was categories, atoll and coastal, the former situated behind a published, which urged member states to bring into force coral reef barrier and occurring, therefore, only in the tropics, laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary the latter worldwide. More temperate lagoons are often, but to comply with it within two years of the notification. not necessarily, associated with riverine estuaries and are sepa- The Government of the Portuguese Autonomous rated from the sea by pebbles, gravel and sand barriers—the Region of the Azores must comply with the EU’s Direc-

12 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 13 Environment & conservation Environment & conservation

Fajã dos Cubres is currently classified as a Site of the (then much bigger) Fajã de Santo lives on the coast and the threats to delicate marine Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong International Importance under the Ramsar Convention Cristo and sank with the loss of habitats, especially lagoons, are growing. Coastal lagoons SAR, China. relative to the List of Wetlands of International Importance, all hands save for two appren- usually form along gently-sloping coasts; therefore, the FURTHER READING and was designated on 2 December 2005, especially with tices—who, upon their Azorean lagoonal wetlands are of especial importance N.B: the selected references are in English for acces- sibility. A full reference list is available online at www. regard to protection of its habitat for aquatic birds. return to England, and interest occurring, as they do, in the case of São mba.ac.uk/marinebiologist/issue-3-azorean-lagoons Fajã de Santo Cristo told the story to the Jorge especially, behind large boulder rampart barriers. Fonseca L.C., Menezes G., Gonçalves J. and Porteiro The Special Ecological Area of the Fajã de Santo Cristo Liverpool Echo. The processes of recruitment to lagoons are virtually F. (1995) Environmental characterisation of ‘Sto. Cristo’ also sits on the north shore of São Jorge and has a total area Occupied subsequent to the earthquake of 1757, the unstudied and the suite of species present in any one of them coastal lagoon (S. Jorge, Azores). Boletim do Museu Municipal do Funchal, Supplemento 4: 219–232. 2 of only 0.86 km (length, 500 m; width, 250 m) and a maxi- platform of Santo Cristo is towered over by the precipitous is not just variable but also unique. Even given their common Morton, B., Britton, J.C. and Frias Martins, A.M. (1995). Fajã mum depth of 6 m. The lagoon itself sits behind a boulder north face of São Jorge (Figure 5), its village comprising a genesis, both Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã de Santo Cristo dos Cubres, São Jorge: a case for coastal conservation and rampart through which is a channel that was (and still is) church and a few houses and outbuildings. Communica- lagoons are intrinsically different both physically and biologi- the first record of Ruppia maritima Linnaeus (Monocotyle- dones: Ruppiacea) from the Azores. Azoreana 8: 11–-30. kept open by local villagers. An early text discusses Santo tion with the São Jorge plateau, to avoid the arduous cally. Both lagoons were designated as Ramsar Sites in 2005, Morton, B., Britton, J.C. and Frias-Martins, A.M. de (1998). Cristo and records that the lagoon there was full of shrimps climbs both up and down was achieved by steel hawsers however, it is herein concluded that this level of protection is Coastal Ecology of the Azores. Sociedade Afonso Chaves, Ponta (probably Palaemon sp.), which were caught and used by that could be wound down and up manually carrying neither strong enough nor sufficiently appropriate to protect Delgada, São Miguel, Azores, Portugal. pp. i–-x + 249 pp. fishermen as a bait to fish for grouper, possibly the solitary the necessities of life and village exports, respectively. the twin sister fajãs of Cubres and Santo Cristo on São Jorge. Morton, B. and Tristão da Cunha, R.M.P.T. (in press 2014). The history of an invasion: chance consequences of chance dusky grouper, Epinephelus marginatus, which is considered Such windlasses were still in operation in 1965. Although decrees by the Azorean Regional Government events. The first and last voyage of the Spindrift and intro- to be one of the non-resident juvenile visitors to the lagoon. The lagoon of Fajã de Santo Cristo was initially protected have been published recently which strengthen protection duction of Venerupis decussata (Bivalvia) into the Fajã de When I visited Santo Cristo in 1965, I made the first map as a ‘Partial Nature Reserve’ (Decreto Legislativo Regional of Fajã de Santo Cristo and Fajã dos Cubres, I believe and Santo Cristo, São Jorge, Azores. Azoreana (In press). of the lagoon (Figure 4) and, in addition to determining No. 4/84/A, 1984) and subsequently as a ‘Special Ecologi- recommend that the two São Jorge fajãs are so important, Santos, R.S., Monteiro L.R., Alves M., Isidro E.J., Martins H.R. and Hawkins S.J. (1994). A review of marine research that it had a landward freshwater source, also identified an cal’ Area (Decreto Legislativo Regional No. 6/89/A, 1989). geologically, geomorphologically, ecologically, historically and in relation to conservation in the Azores. Relatórios Internos area of the inlet that was clearly, then, man-made. This was In 2005, Fajã de Santo Cristo was also classified as a Site of culturally that they should be designated as a single (since do Departmento de Oceanografia e Pescas, Universi- dade dos Azores, Horta, Azores 1, 58 pp + 2 plates. they were formed at the same time) World Heritage Site. Morton B. (2014) The conservation of important lagoonal, To be included on the World Heritage List, sites wetand, habitats in the Azores. And a proposal for World Heritage must be of outstanding universal value and meet Site designation for Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã de Santo Cristo, at least one out of ten selection criteria.I suggest São Jorge. Boletim do Nucleo Cultural da Horta 23: 115–134. Morton B. and Tristão da Cunha R. (1993) The Fajã de that the following are the most important criteria Santo Cristo, São Jorge, re-visited and a case for Azorean with regard to the designation of the two fajãs: coastal conservation. Azoreana 1993: 539–553. • “... an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use, ... representative of a culture ... or human interaction with the envi- ronment especially when it has become vulner- able under the impact of irreversible change.” • Containing “superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance.” • “... outstanding examples representing major stages of Earth’s history, including the record of life, ... geological processes ... or significant Fig. 3. Fajã dos Cubres, Calheta, ilha de São Jorge, Azores. Fig. 4. Fajã Santo Cristo, ilha de São Jorge, Azores. geomorphic or physiographic features.” • “ ... outstanding examples representing ... ecological and the first scientific illustration I ever made. Although the International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. biological processes in the evolution and development of Fajã de Santo Cristo was first studied in 1965, subsequent, Morton & Tristão da Cunha (1993), however, argued for ... ecosystems and communities of plants and animals.” more detailed studies were not undertaken until over 20 a stricter conservation designation of the lagoon. Santos • Containing “the most important and sig- years later. These have been, for example, of the lagoon et al. (1994) similarly identified Santo Cristo as being of nificant natural habitats for in situ con- itself (Morton & Tristão da Cunha, 1993; Fonseca et al., conservation interest and agreed that the lagoon should servation of biological diversity ...” 1995) and of the introduced clams, or amêijoas, Venerupis be protected and conserved albeit still allowing artisanal (The full list of World Heritage List selec- decussata, harvested from therein (Santos, 1985; Santos & exploitation of the resident amêijoas. In this context, tion criteria can be seen at www.mba.ac.uk/ Martins, 1987; Santos et al., 1989; Gonçalves & Martins, this singularly unique and probably most important of marinebiologist/issue-3-azorean-lagoons/) 1991; Morton & Tristão da Cunha, 1993). The story of all Azorean marine intertidal habitats could, owing to its Earlier this year, I laid out in greater detail the case this bivalve’s introduction into the lagoon is shrouded in historical importance, also be managed for ecotourism. for designation of the São Jorge fajãs as World Heritage mystery but I and Regina Tristão da Cunha (in press) have World Heritage Site designation Sites (Morton, 2014). This paper re-iterates the proposal suggested that it was taken there as on-board seafood by the Coastal lagoons are—or at least used to be—common that application be made for designation and brings British merchant clipper Spindrift (below, in text), which, on continental margins, occurring along nearly 15% of these arguments to a wider international audience. on the night of 6 December 1870, blown off course by a the world’s shorelines and mainland Europe was especially Professor Brian Morton storm en route to Mexico via the Caribbean, smashed into rich in them. Today, however over 75% of humankind ([email protected]) School of Biological Fig. 5. Fajã Santo Cristo, ilha de São Jorge, Azores.

14 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 15 Evidence:Section name the key to Environment & conservation local marine conservation Box 2. jellyfish (Lucernariopsis campanulata Martin Goodall (martin.goodall@ Image: Caz Waddell. cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk) is the and Haliclystus auricula), light bulb sea The legacy of the Intertidal Discovery Data Manager for ERCCIS and project is: squirts (Clavelina lepadiformis), and Cornwall Wildlife Trust. here is a desperate need for The Intertidal Discovery project has completed the first ever • Production of the first ever complete candy striped flatworms (Prostheceraeus FURTHER READING baseline marine data, and baseline survey of intertidal habitats for conservation and baseline of intertidal habitats in Cornwall; vittatus) have all been found intertid- monitoring in the marine ally. The honeycomb worm (Sabellaria Hiscock K., Baker G., Crump A. and T public benefit along the coast of north Cornwall, England. • Production of a comprehensive, Jefferson R. (2005) Marine life topic note. environment is high on the UK interactive mapping portal (www.intertidald- alveolata) has been extensively mapped Climate change and marine life around Britain Martin Goodall explains the background to this work. and Ireland. Marine Life Information Network: Government’s agenda to underpin iscovery.org.uk/HabitatMap); around the Bude area, where only local and national marine conservation ad hoc records existed previously. • The provision of robust scientific data to strategies. This article gives an over- mental Records Centre for Cornwall et al., 2006), and allows the results to The surveys have revealed surprisingly marine planning authorities and statutory view of a project that addresses these and the Isles of Scilly (ERCCIS) and be utilized as widely as possible. bodies; large numbers of the strawberry anem- needs, and hopefully will stimulate Cornwall Wildlife Trust (CWT), hold The team use hand-held computers one (Actinia fragacea), together with • Guides for technical and non-technical thoughts about large-scale monitor- a wealth of information about Corn- in the field to produce habitat maps, notable records for the bushy rainbow audiences (see the website for details on ing, methodologies and best methods wall’s marine habitats and species. This assess site characteristics, take detailed wrack (Cystoseira tamariscifolia) domi- how to obtain guides); of sharing/disseminating results. is a truly fantastic resource but it is nating rockpools, and the brown fork not publically available, and is only of It is essential to turn • The ability to train staff/volunteers in weed (Bifurcaria bifurcata) on open rock limited use to those making manage- anecdotal accounts undertaking field surveys using mobile GIS of the lower shore. This would appear to ment decisions (as illustrated during into robust scientific technology; support suggestions from the previous the recent MCZ consultation process). evidence • Hundreds of volunteers trained in MarClim (www.mba.ac.uk/marclim) To address this, and to provide much elements of marine fieldwork, surveying and study that these species could be among needed information about the eco- target notes and geo-referenced data management. the ‘winners’ of climate change in the logical state of our coastline, a project photographs, and produce comprehen- south-west (Hiscock et al., 2005). called ‘Intertidal Discovery’ was set up sive species lists for each area of survey. dissemination and habitat/species Ultimately this baseline is already Survey approach. Image: Intertidal Discovery in June 2012 by ERCCIS and CWT. This use of technology dramatically identification. These are all long-term, proving an extremely useful resource Biology and Sensitivity Key Information Box 1. reduces the office time needed to transferable skills. at a local level and we are looking at Sub-programme [online]. Plymouth: Marine What do we know now? Biological Association of the United Kingdom. collate the data for analysis and how outputs from this project can be Available from: http://www.marlin.ac.uk The Intertidal Discovery Project staff and eventual dissemination. We have only just started to analyse used as a tool for marine planning, volunteers have: Wyn G., Brazier P., Birch K., Bunker A., In addition to the intertidal surveys, this amazing resource and given environmental monitoring, and Cooke A., Jones M., Lough N., McNath • Surveyed over 32,000,000 m2 of we have undertaken trials to ground- the detail we envisage this to be a decision-making. It is our hope that M. and Roberts S. (2006) Handbook intertidal habitat stretching 450 km (over for Marine Intertidal Phase 1 Biotope truth inshore sub-littoral habitats using lengthy process! However, an initial this project will inspire other non- Mapping Survey. Countryside Council 280 miles) along the entire north coast of Conducting foot surveys for the Intertidal a drop-camera with lighting and cage view has revealed superb examples of governmental organizations and public for Wales. ISBN: 1 86169 144 0. Cornwall and accurately mapped 111 Discovery Project. Image: Caz Waddell. array. The resulting high quality video intertidal underboulder communi- bodies to obtain much-needed baseline White J., Mitchell A., Coggan R., Southern intertidal habitat types (including 32 HPI footage of the seafloor is geographically ties (a 2007 priority habitat) located marine data, and to work together to I. and Golding N. (2007) Seafloor video map- An evidence-based approach (Habitats of Principal Importance)/FOCI referenced and we can analyse this around Cape Cornwall and St Ives, collate vital evidence to underpin local ping: collection, analysis and interpretation (Features of Conservation Interest) habitat of seafloor video footage for the purpose of In 2011, a national evidence- footage to identify and map the extent where iconic species such as stalked and national marine conservation. habitat classification and mapping. MESH. gathering exercise recommended the types); of some seafloor habitats. The full designation of 127 Marine Conser- • Discovered approximately 1,200 method used follows the Mapping vation Zones (MCZ) in England, hectares of rocky habitats—of which European Seabed Habitats (MESH) under the Marine and Coastal Access 6.5% is HPI habitat (from 18 HPI habitat methodology (White et al., 2007). Act (2009). However, in 2012 types) and found approximately 1,850 ha Underpinning this survey effort, our the UK Government’s scientific of sediment habitats—of which 24% is training programme for local volunteers advisors argued that only 31 sites HPI habitat (from 14 HPI habitat types); and students teaches survey techniques, were deemed to have a sufficient • Produced records of the location and GIS mapping, data analysis, evidence evidence-base on which to proceed. extent of over 200 intertidal species Anyone who has spent time at (including data on invasives/non-natives the coast will know what a fascinat- species). ing variety of species are present. That is all well and good, but when The Intertidal Discovery Project it comes to conservation manage- The project team and volunteers have ment and legal designations it is surveyed the entire Cornish north coast essential to be able to turn general using Intertidal Biotope Mapping. This appreciation and anecdotal accounts approach has been recognized as the into robust scientific evidence. best method for collecting broad-scale, Drop camera image of Laminaria bed. In southwest England the Environ- baseline data for intertidal areas (Wyn Image: Intertidal Discovery. Towan Head habitat map in 3D effect by Intertidal Discovery.

16 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 17 Section name Policy

ally halt, the increase of atmospheric marine environment carbon dioxide, and its associated • Reduce marine debris chemical and ecological impacts. • Stem the increase in ocean Three UK experts were amongst the acidification twenty scientists invited to speak, each • Create worldwide capability to delivering their messages in 5 minutes monitor ocean acidification of non-technical information. Richard • Create more marine protected areas Thompson (Plymouth University, • Protect coastal ecosystems that UK) discussed the problems of marine provide critical services. plastic litter, whilst the authors of this The next level down of the policy article explained the chemistry, scale response—involving specific imple- and unprecedented speed of ocean mentation actions—is, however, of acidification, and the closely-related critical importance, since that will need for more ocean acidification determine the extent that current Secretary Kerry holds discussion with Prince Albert II of Monaco at the “Our data on a worldwide basis, to improve trends can be slowed or reversed. Is Ocean” conference in Washington, D.C. in June. Image: US State Department. understanding, short-term forecasting it envisaged that there will be legally- and long-term projections: ‘what you binding targets at either the national, don’t measure, you can’t manage’. Bill regional or international level? How The US gets serious on global ocean health Dewey (Taylor Shellfish Farms, WA) would complementarity be achieved Coldwater corals off NW Scotland, a habitat and Ove Hoegh-Guldberg (University with other ocean health initiatives, Phil Williamson and Carol Turley report from the “Our Ocean” conference hosted by John threatened by ocean acidification. Image: of Queensland, Australia) also spoke such as the EU’s Marine Strategy UKOA/Changing Oceans expedition, Heriot- Kerry at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. in June. in the ocean acidification session: the Framework Directive and associated Watt University former described how ocean acidifica- national commitments to achieve overnment departments for foreign affairs might not four speeches, as well as remarks at lunchtime and at tion impacts, with potentially serious good environmental status? How will ment, reminded the conference of the seem the obvious protagonists for ocean science, the an evening reception. The conviction of those speeches, socio-economic consequences, were conflicts of interest be resolved? Little establishment in 2010 of the Chagos Gsustainable use of marine resources and the need to exhorting the world’s decision-makers not just to hear already underway in the north-west mention was made of the UN bodies Archipelago (British Indian Ocean address climate change. Yet there is strong logic for their the science but to act on it, gives rise to optimism. USA; the latter, how it would take with relevant responsibilities, perhaps Territory) marine protected area, involvement: most marine ecosystem services are either Most researchers are very familiar with science confer- ocean chemistry and ecosystems more whilst also announcing that protected delivered by the ‘high seas’ (shared by all nations as common ences and their formats; a few also go to policy-directed than 10,000 years to recover from the “Energy policy is the status around the Pitcairn Islands was assets); or else directly depend on sound management by events, either at the national or international level. The changes that are currently occurring. solution to climate now under consideration. In total, others, within their exclusive economic zones (EEZs). Since ‘Our Ocean’ conference was a unique mix of both, based The aspirational headlines from change” increased protection was declared for any single country, however large, can only make limited on scientists sharing their knowledge not only with heads of the Action Plan arising from the more than 3 million km2 of ocean—an progress in tackling marine issues on its own, regional and state, ministers and other government representatives from conference3 were sufficiently generic because the US has limited influence area roughly the size of India. global policy action becomes essential; The conviction of more than 80 countries, but also with around so that all countries represented at the Intergovernmental Oceano- All these conservation initiatives for example, to prevent fishery over- 400 others from industry, philanthropic would (hopefully) be able to agree graphic Commission of UNESCO are, of course, highly desirable, and [Kerry’s] speeches, exploitation and tackling wider issues of bodies, non-governmental organizations, on them, without formal sign-up: (having recently lost its voting rights are to be warmly welcomed. But what ocean health. European and UN bodies exhorting the world’s universities and intergovernmental organiza- • End overfishing in the ocean there) and has yet to ratify the Con- about the more difficult challenge of clearly play a major role in that regard, decision-makers not tions. Hundreds more followed a live online • Prevent illegal, unreported and vention on Biological Diversity. ocean acidification, closely related to yet there is also scope for individual just to hear the science broadcast of the event at US embassies unregulated (IUU) fishing At the conference itself, a flurry of climate change? Policy ‘solutions’ to countries to both lead and stimulate but to act on it, gives around the world, including London, with • Reduce nutrient pollution to the announcements and commitments that problem can be considered on 4 commitment and collaborative action. rise to optimism wider social media coverage of over 6 mil- were made, mostly relating to fishery several levels , including the need for The US Department of State (equiva- lion1. Celebrity guest appearances included control and enhanced marine protec- better scientific understanding and lent to the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office) has Ted Danson (No. 2 in US TV star ranking) and Leonardo tion. Thus, in addition to DiCaprio’s improved monitoring. Yet there is recently risen to that challenge by giving high priority to DiCaprio. The latter was the conference highlight as far as pledge of an extra US $7m for marine fundamentally only one way to reduce ocean issues, with strong personal involvement by Secretary the UK media was concerned, even in the ‘quality’ cover- conservation projects, Barack Obama future ocean acidification, and that of State John Kerry. Originally entitled ‘Oceans under age of the issues, such as by the BBC and the Guardian2. announced (by video) additional is by reducing future carbon dioxide threat’ and scheduled for last October, the ‘Our Ocean’ Discussions at the conference focused on three of the protection for the Pacific Remote emissions. Here is what Kerry had to conference was held on 16–17 June 2014 in Washington, most serious problems that threaten the global ocean: Islands Marine National Monu- say on such issues at the conference: DC—with the change in title recognizing that there is just over-fishing; pollution; and acidification. From Kerry’s ment; President Tong of Kiribati and ‘What’s interesting about the one, interconnected global ocean, and that its stewardship perspective, none of these are intractable problems, yet the President Remengesau of Palau challenges we face, I might add—and is a collective responsibility for everyone, everywhere. effective remedial actions require substantive national and Speakers at the ocean acidification session: declared that commercial fishing it is not just about the ocean—but Kerry did not limit his attendance to the formal international political will: to improve fishery regulation and (L to R) Phil Williamson, Yimnang Golbuu, would be phased out within most of so many of the challenges that are Bill Dewey, Alexis Valauri-Orton, Ove Hoegh- opening (as has been known for senior politicians with traceability; keep rubbish out of the seas; and at least make their countries’ EEZs; and Sir David confounding the world today actually Guldberg and Carol Turley. Image: Richard busy agendas), but dominated the conference—giving a start on changing energy policy to reduce, and eventu- Thompson (Plymouth University). King, representing the UK Govern- have pretty obvious solutions that

18 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 19 Policy Policy

England’s MPAs – towards a well-managed network

By Jen Ashworth and Leanne Stockdale. n recent years the marine biological community has consents to avoid or mitigate environmental impacts. focused a lot of attention and effort on identifying In the last year Defra, the MMO, IFCAs, Natural Iand establishing new marine protected areas (MPAs). England and JNCC have been working together to In England the government designated 27 new Marine improve the management of fisheries within MPAs fol- Conservation Zones in 2013 bringing the number of lowing a change to how these activities could be managed. MPAs around England (out to 200 nm) to 114 with The MMO and IFCAs have put in place 17 by-laws more to come. Together with MPAs designated by other which protect features such as Sabellaria reef and seagrass UK authorities the MPA network covers 16 .2% of UK beds in MPAs from high-risk fishing activities. This was waters. Creating new MPAs is only the first step. The a big step towards achieving a well-managed network UK is committed to a network that is also well-managed and in 2016 other fishing activities will be assessed so that habitats and species can thrive and contribute to and, if required, new management measures agreed. healthier seas across the UK. No-one wants paper parks! The English coast is a busy place and some Well-managed MPAs in England require many organiza- of our coastal MPAs are highly complex with tions to work well together. In other countries there is often many management bodies and activities a single body responsible for managing MPAs such as the occurring. The managers of some of these Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. In the UK we sites have come together to produce a have different authorities to manage different activities management scheme. This local partnership happening at sea including the 10 regional Inshore Fisher- working has led to new codes ies and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs), the Marine of conduct, joint research Management Organization (MMO) and local authorities. projects and raising Leonardo DiCaprio delivers remarks at the 2014 “Our Ocean” Conference at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. on June 17, However, far from being a weakness, this framework can be awareness with 2014. Image: US State Department. a strength allowing regional and local decision making. The communities about are staring us in the face. It’s not as if we’re sitting around and Fisheries) that the event ‘exceeded even our greatest key issue is to ensure that regulators, national, regional or MPAs and the impor- scratching our heads saying, “How do we solve the prob- expectations’. But the long-term test will be around 2020, sectoral, are clear why a site has been designated and what tance of our marine wildlife. lem?” It’s really a question of “How do we find the political when—it is to be hoped—it could be seen as a turning point effect the actions they manage can have on those sites. We are actively working will?” “How do we get people to move—to sometimes move not just for US ocean policy, but in rescuing the future. These managers use advice from the nature conservation towards all MPAs being well- back very vested, powerful interests that like the status quo Phil Williamson (Natural Environment Research Council agencies, Natural England and the Joint Nature Conserva- managed and with this mixture of legal because change means reinvesting or changing the way and University of East Anglia) and Carol Turley (Plymouth tion Committee (JNCC), on the importance and objectives duties to protect MPAs, licencing, you do business, even though in the long run it will save Marine Laboratory)—Phil and Carol are the Science and of protected habitats and species. This gives rise to many identifying management measures everybody a lot of money and a lot of grief?” It is pretty Knowledge Exchange Coordinators of the UK Ocean questions. What does a healthy rocky reef look like? What for existing activities and local obvious where we are. The solution to climate change, Acidification (UKOA) research programme, co-funded by habitats and species should it contain? How big should it NERC, Defra and DECC. partnership working it is clear that which is a serious problem with respect to the oceans, as be? What ecological processes are important to the reef and England’s MPAs are not paper parks. FURTHER READING we have all seen, is very simple actually. It’s called energy what pressures (and activities that cause these) might damage Jen Ashworth (jen.ashworth@ 1. https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/12223-help-protect-our-ocean policy. Energy policy is the solution to climate change’. the reef? Natural England also undertakes monitoring to naturalengland.org.uk) manages 2. http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/jun/17/ Natural England’s Marine The implications of such an approach will, no doubt, take obama-oceans-marine-reserves-leonardo-dicaprio check the health of the habitats and species against the Conservation and Management a lot more time and effort to be fully realized. Nevertheless, 3. ‘Our Ocean 2014’, 16–17 June: Conference outcomes objectives, often in partnership with management bodies. Advice and Capability Teams. those views would seem of crucial importance as an indication (Our Ocean Action Plan and Our Ocean Initiatives). http:// Immediately from designation, and as good practice of US policy intent5—with particular regard to negotiations www.state.gov/e/oes/ocns/opa/2014conf/index.htm even before designation, management bodies have Leanne Stockdale (Leanne. under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change 4. Herr D., Isensee K., Harrould-Kolieb E. andTurley C. legal duties to protect MPAs. Those proposing new Stockdale@marinemanagement. (2014) Ocean Acidification: International Policy and Govern- org.uk) is Senior IFCA (UNFCCC) that the US has ratified and within which it ance Options. International Union for Conservation of Nature, activities such as dredge disposal or development of Byelaws and Liaison Officer plays a pivotal role. In just over a year’s time, all countries will Gland, Switzerland; www.iucn.org/about/work/programmes/ marine infrastructure must apply for a licence (usually a marine/?16064/ocean-acidification-policy-guidance at the Marine Management meet in Paris for the 21st UNFCCC Conference of Parties, marine licence from the MMO) and licences will not be Organization, UK. 5. US policy implications were further discussed at a round-table to negotiate reductions in their greenhouse gas emissions, meeting in mid-August, involving the US Department of State, the granted unless consideration of their effect on the site has to come into effect by 2020. As a short-term verdict on Foreign Service Institute, the Bureau of Oceans and International been assessed. The licencing body can refuse or modify Environmental and Scientific Affairs and the National Oceanic and the ‘Our Ocean’ conference, we concur with Ambassador Atmospheric Administration (also with UK science representation). David Balton (US Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oceans

20 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 21

Image: Keith Hiscock 1. Monitoring the ecosystem of the Western Sharing marine science English Channel – sharing resources Section name

influences their susceptibility to changes in the environment. One of the aims of the project was to better understand how these complex life cycles function in order to address Our shared sea this question. Planktonic microalgae of Channel open water Marinexus Mechanisms of ecosystem change in the Western Channel environments also fell under the scrutiny of this part of the project. Ocean acidification represents a significant challenge he Marinexus project for several of these species because it affects their capacity 3 brought together to fabricate their protective calcium-based exoskeletons. 1 Tscientists and out- The outreach activities of the project used the results of reach experts from Plymouth, these various research projects as raw material to construct southwest England and Roscoff, attractive communication tools aimed at increasing knowledge France in an effort to improve our about marine ecosystems and promoting citizen involvement understanding of ecosystem function- in their protection and sustainable use. Activities aimed at ing in the western Channel and to raise schoolchildren and the public included workshops on Brittany awareness of these ecosystems, particularly Ferries ships during the crossings between Plymouth and

among schoolchildren and the public. Roscoff, and visits to schools on both sides of the Channel. 4 Both the English and the French partners of this project On the French side, these and other activities were carried 2 have long traditions of ecosystem monitoring in the western out using the ‘Marinexus Bus’, a dedicated outreach vehicle Channel. The Marine Biological Association’s long-term equipped with laboratory and demonstration apparatus. In Dr Tim Smyth, a marine scientist who led this area of work said “The key has been bringing groups together who are working on similar things. monitoring programme dates back to the 19th century, and Plymouth, a number of activities were organized, such as For example, scientists on both sides of the Channel use flow cytometry, but the cross-border aspect, which is the key part of Interreg, has brought the Station Biologique de Roscoff also has a long history in them closer, adopting the same methods and learning from each other”. Image credits: 1. James Richard Fishwick 2, 3. SAHFOS 4. MBA. this domain. Marinexus provided a long-overdue opportunity to integrate monitoring activities on the two sides of the 2. Non-indigenous species on the Channel coast and south-west England (Devon and Cornwall). Channel, and to trial innovative new observation methods, During the lifetime of the Marinexus project, sub- Methods included deployment of settlement panels in such as the installation of a ‘ferry box’ on the Brittany Ferries stantial changes were documented in the marine non- marinas, standardized timed searches of a series of sites ship Armorique (see map on P23). The project also provided a indigenous fauna of the western English Channel. (Rapid Assessment Surveys—RAS), both of these activities forum for the exchange and comparative analysis of monitor- Species deposited beyond their natural geographical range being repeated to monitor changes during the project, and ing data. In addition to monitoring physical and chemical by human activities, either accidentally or deliberately, the recording of species growing on yacht hulls and on parameters, the project also implemented several approaches can modify ecosystems and pose major threats to both the hull and in the ballast tanks of a cross-Channel ferry. aimed at evaluating changes in biological diversity both in economic interests and native biodiversity. The Marinexus The lists of NIS on the two sides of the Channel the open Channel and in different coastal environments. project included appraisal of these non-indigenous species were remarkably similar, the great majority of species A major aim of the Marinexus project was to investigate (NIS) in the fouling communities of harbours and mari- being present on both sides. Nevertheless, the animal effects of modifications to the marine environment on nas—artificial environments in which NIS are particularly communities developing on panels during one year’s The Marinexus bus in action at a Bioblitz event. Channel ecosystems, through, for example, identification prominent and which can act as stepping-stones for immersion in 13 marinas, scored in terms of the space and monitoring of invasive species on both sides of the the ‘Marine biologist for a day’ programme and Bioblitzes, spread around the coast and thence into natural habitats. occupied by each species, showed a consistently greater Channel (see the section on non-indigenous species below). which involved the public and schoolchildren in describ- Marine biologists from the laboratories in Plymouth prominence of many of the NIS in Brittany (Figure 1). The project also looked at how indigenous species are ing biodiversity at seashore sites. As with the research and Roscoff adopted joint protocols and undertook col- RAS of 10 English and seven French marinas were under- equipped to deal with changes to their environment. For projects, the outreach activities involved multiple interac- laborative work to enable direct comparisons of localities taken in 2010 and repeated in 2013. In 2010 the marinas example, seaweeds are an important component of coastal tions between the English and French partners, sharing of on the two sides of the Channel, in north-west Brittany studied in Brittany had almost complete site occupancy by ecosystems but many have complex life cycles and it is ideas and joint participation in several of the initiatives. many of the sessile animal NIS present in the region—most not clear to what extent the complexity of their life cycles In addition to increasing general awareness about marine ecosystems in the Channel, Marinexus ran several activi- ties aimed specifically at stakeholders. For example, a day dedicated to several round tables with themes such as ‘Citizen science as a means to involve the public in environmental issues’ and ‘The added value of international coopera- tion’ attracted participants from several sectors including local government and environmental protection agencies. This type of action proved to be a very effective means of transmitting key messages to local decision-makers. Just over 100 scientists, outreach and technical staff worked on a range of projects under Marinexus. More information is Fig. 1. Plot of faunal composition on settlement panels in marinas available on the website but let us look at just two areas of during three successive annual deployments, showing a consistent Fig. 2. Frequency distribution of 13 non-indigenous species (NIS) distinction between panels in Brittany (green symbols) and Devon based on the number of marina sites occupied by each species in research in a little more detail. Culturing algae. Image: © R. Lamoureux (photothèque CNRS). & Cornwall (blue symbols). surveys in Devon and Cornwall, and Brittany.

22 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 23 Sharing marine science Confusingly similar species: DNA to the rescue NIS were present in most marinas— ost marine biologists are not only fascinated by the seabirds) caused by oil pollution, industrial chemicals and DNA-based identification (molecular ‘barcoding’) has been vital for resolving a group of and the picture remained the same polymorphic species that can closely resemble each other. animals and plants that inhabit the seas and radioactive materials, plastic litter, algal blooms, coastal in 2013 (Figure 2). In Devon and oceans of the Earth; they are also attracted by zone destruction, habitat loss, and catastrophic Colonial sea squirts of the genus Botrylloides (relatives of the better-known ‘star sea M Cornwall, occupancy was substantially squirt’, Botryllus schlosseri) include at least two non-indigenous species in the the idea of spending their lives experiencing coastal overfishing. Anxiety about these threats has lower in 2010 but had increased by Marinexus study region: orange cloak sea squirt (B. violaceus); and San Diego sea squirt environments and the open ocean. Beginnings are often dictated the research agendas of funders (B. diegensis). Both occur in a variety of colour forms, and these species can resemble 2013 largely because two species spread each other closely and are also difficult to distinguish from the putatively native species made exploring rock pools, beaches, sand dunes and salt and policymakers. But what about the to several new marinas in Devon and B. leachii. Molecular barcoding enabled colonies to be classified so that distributions marshes, before venturing into or onto the rolling seas. positive benefits of coastal environments could be clarified and subtle morphological distinctions looked for in well-chosen Cornwall between the surveys: the comparisons of specimens. A fourth group of DNA sequences brought to light an But marine biologists are not the only ones who value to society and human well-being? How compass sea squirt (Asterocarpa humilis) overlooked species within the samples, and distinguishing morphological characteristics our shorelines and offshore environments. Our species as well do we understand what is on offer? and red ripple bryozoan (Watersipora in the corresponding specimens were then recognized. a whole seem to prefer living near the sea whenever pos- Health, well-being and coastal subtorquata). In Brittany, both these sible. Approximately one-tenth of the world’s population environments species were already present in 2010 inhabit low elevation coastal zones, and this is likely to In Europe, the value of marine at all of the marinas surveyed. increase. The global trend of moving to live in cities also ecosystems to public health is receiving Parallel DNA-based population shows a marine bias. Of the 180 countries with accessible growing attention. For example, work genetic studies suggested a common coastlines, around 130 have their largest cities and towns is gathering pace to origin of the populations of NIS on located on the coast; also those living elsewhere frequently promote the two sides of the Channel, i.e. a choose to spend their leisure hours and vacations shared history of introduction with visiting coastal areas. In 2007 more than efficient spread across the Chan- 20 million people in England Seas, Society, Health nel following initial establishment on one or other side. Based on the and Wellbeing greater occupancy of habitat patches (marinas) and higher abundances seen in France, a general pattern over By Michael Depledge, Ben Wheeler and Mat White the past 3–4 decades of spread of marine NIS from France to England is inferred. The Marinexus stud- ies and earlier records document a cluster of discoveries of new sessile went to the seaside. Once there, they willingly paid extra more active, outdoor lifestyles to help combat the animal NIS around the turn of the Three species of Botrylloides, with the probable undescribed fourth species bottom-right. for a view of the sea from their guest houses and hotels. epidemics of obesity, depression and other physiological millennium. At least three of these Images: John Bishop. Taking a broader view illuminates the variation across and psychological disorders. One programme, the ‘Blue are native to the north-west Pacific the world in how people interact with marine ecosystems. Gym’ promotes participation in coastal activities, such as Marinexus partners: and are candidates for introduction Conclusion 1. Station Biologique de Roscoff Some areas, such as the North Sea, are heavily exploited swimming, sailing, surfing and kayaking, but also coastal to France via commercial movements Over its four and a half year (Centre national de la recherche while others, such as parts of the Indian Ocean, are far less walks and rock pool rambles. It is imperative that we of Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas). duration, the Marinexus project scientifique/Université Pierre et Marie influenced by human activity. The US coastline is ca.153, gather evidence that ultimately leads to reduced incidences We also inspected the hulls of has significantly strengthened links Curie) 650 km long; that of Europe only ca. 89,000 km. In the of disease and improved well-being. The programme also over 120 yachts, documenting an between marine research institutions 2. Plymouth Marine Laboratory USA, ca. 90 million people are regarded as living by or near explores the cues and clues that we pick up from the average of four species of animal in Plymouth and Roscoff and many 3. Marine Biological Association the coast, whereas in Europe, there are at least 200 million seashore environment. In shaping future actions, we need to Sir Alister Hardy Foundation for NIS per vessel in both Devon and of the collaborative initiatives will be coastal inhabitants. Particular attention should be paid to know how our brains actively respond to different natural Ocean Science Brittany, with similar lists of species continued and expanded in the future. National Marine Aquarium areas of high intensity human activity, as our predilection settings. Other work is addressing why marine environments on both sides of the Channel. The strong outreach component of this Centre de Découverte des Algues for living by the sea and for extraction of natural resources are viewed so positively, compared with other natural or A picture therefore emerges of project has also been very enriching for (Algae Discovery Centre), Roscoff has sadly led to adverse consequences for marine ecosystems. urban settings. Recent evidence from the UK suggests that England and France sharing a common partners on both sides of the Chan- Brittany Ferries For instance, more than 50% of the Mediterranean coast has those living near the coast tend to be healthier than those history of introductions of NIS on nel, creating partnerships between Subcontractor: Association les been modified by coastal defences, promenades, marinas, living inland, after accounting for differences in economic Petits Débrouillards Bretagne (Young their Channel coasts, with a recent academic and outreach organizations etc., while elsewhere in Europe approximately two-thirds of status and age. Of relevance to policymakers, the greatest Investigators) burst of new arrivals spreading across and allowing new skills to be developed Marinexus was funded by the coastal wetlands have been lost since the beginning of the positive effects on health from coastal living were seen for the Channel predominantly north- by both types of partner. Discussions European Union Interreg program. 1900s to development (farming, housing, etc.). Many other the most socio-economically deprived communities. wards, often after only a brief delay. are currently underway to follow up on examples can be cited, including those remote areas expe- Well-being may also be boosted by time spent near Probable vectors of spread include the success of this project with a similar riencing burgeoning tourism (e.g. the Maldives) as well as or on the sea. To some this seems obvious, but deeper leisure craft and cross-Channel com- collaborative initiative in the future. the alarming new prospect of extensive submarine hydraulic consideration suggests that a more complicated situation mercial vessels, with initial introduc- www.marinexus.org fracturing to obtain gas and oil. But proximity and contact exists, often determined by social and cultural factors. tion to north-west Europe often Mark Cock1 ([email protected]) also foster a fascination with marine life. Indeed, when asked, Attitudes differ greatly around the world, with fear of originating from aquaculture-related Tim Smyth2 ([email protected]) most people express concern about damage to charismatic the sea predominating in some island communities and shipments of commercial species. John Bishop3 ([email protected]) marine animals (mainly whales, seals, dolphins, turtles and in locations that have experienced natural disasters.

24 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 25 Sharing marine science Sharing marine science

Population well-being has emerged 2008) provides the main framework and has positive effects on well-being. Recording in the marine environment; phone applications are not for every- as an important issue for government for marine environmental policy. Happily, as a result of rising interest one, they are likely to prove essential policymakers as it becomes clear that The aim is to deliver ‘Good Envi- across Europe and elsewhere, hope- building a community for the future in engaging the next generation of healthier physical and mental states ronmental Status’ (GES) by 2020 ful signs are emerging. For example, biologists and amateur naturalists. amongst the population can reduce using ‘qualitative descriptors’ as recently published proposals in the Becky Seeley writes about the value of Organizations supporting marine healthcare costs. It is notable that in the measures of progress (for the list of European Marine Board White Paper volunteer records and citizen science life recorders continue to work towards UK the National Health Service, pri- descriptors, see www.mba.ac.uk/ (2014) bring to light the prospect making recording easier for both the marily focused on treating rather than marinebiologist/issue-3-blue-mind). of re-energizing efforts in Europe arine life recording has always and to conduct intensive surveys of the recorder and verifier, ultimately to preventing disease, costs the taxpayer Notably, none of these descrip- to explore the interconnections been a fun and social activity. areas where they have been spotted. facilitate better marine environmental ca. £110 billion pounds per year. Fos- tors directly addresses the health between the oceans and human health MHere we look at the benefits This illustrates why volunteer record- decision-making. Means to automati- tering access to marine environments and well-being of coastal com- through research and training. This and uses of volunteer records, and ers are important. Information supplied cally port information to national and that promote well-being could contrib- munities, or the population more prospect is now tantalizingly close. at developments in the systems that by volunteers (either ad hoc data or international databases such as the ute significantly to reducing these costs. generally (although threats from Professor Michael Depledge, help the records flow to end-users. data collected as part of a marine life National Biodiversity Network (data. Although a start has been made, there contaminated seafood are mentioned). ([email protected]), Dr Ben The Chinese mitten crab recording recording scheme) is critical in expand- are issues to resolve regarding how to Benefits to health and well-being Wheeler ([email protected]) page (mittencrabs.org.uk) has been suc- ing our knowledge about the distribu- and Dr Mat White (Mathew.White@ measure well-being and its economic that might accrue from spending cessful in stimulating new records of this tions of marine species, in marking exeter.ac.uk) value. Here we enter into a domain of time in coastal areas are ignored. and other non-native crustaceans from phenological change, and in reporting European Centre for Environment and intense debate, with a plethora of indi- Until we fully acknowledge that anglers and other water users. Images the occurrence of ephemeral events Human Health, University of Exeter ces and measures already in circulation. coastal ecosystems can provide ‘ecosys- Medical School, The Knowledge Spa, from smartphones wing their way to the such as mass strandings. The long-term Many definitions of well-being rely tem services’ that maintain or improve Truro, TR1 3HD. Non-Native Species Secretariat (NNSS) nature of some schemes means this on the identification of circumstances health and well-being, we will fail to FURTHER READING who pass them on to the Marine information can be used to investigate that can be objectively measured, reap the wealth of benefits that policy Oceans and Human Health: Implications for Biological Association for verification. aspects of species distribution, for delivering quantifications of well- interventions can contribute to improv- Society and Wellbeing (2014). Edited by R.E. The streamlined reporting process example, a paper published in the Bowen, M.H. Depledge, C.P. Carlarne and being. However, others posit that an ing public health. Better coastal access, L.E. Fleming. Oxford, UK: Wiley Blackwell. put in place by initiatives such as the JMBA (Journal of the Marine Biologi- individual’s sense of well-being can motivating physical activity through Linking Oceans and Human Health: A NNSS means that in the event of a new cal Association of the United King- only be determined by themselves; it marine pursuits, sensitive development Strategic Research Priority for Europe. arrival, or of an invasive marine species dom; the paper can be accessed online European Marine Board. Available at: is what they perceive it to be. Perhaps of coastal cities and towns, are all www.marineboard.eu/ being recorded in a new area, the right via 10.1017/S0025315414000137) in the only way to find out is to ask areas where policymakers can make a agencies are briefed and information June this year used data from a public Recording marine life is fun. Image: Becky each person, ‘How do you feel?’. Of difference. These measures can quickly be passed on to monitor- jellyfish sightings scheme (www.mcsuk. Seeley/MBA. course, numerous factors contribute to will also deliver economic ing teams and recorders across the org/sightings/jellyfish.php) managed creating a particular level of well-being dividends by reducing UK. With identification information by the Marine Conservation Society. nbn.org.uk) are currently being including physical health, the state healthcare costs, reducing to hand, Agency staff and volunteer Although not to be considered a sub- explored. Making records available of personal relationships, past experi- days lost from work, reduc- recording networks are alerted to keep stitute for professional monitoring and as quickly as possible and providing ences, hopes for the future, levels of ing dependency on social their eye out for unwelcome invaders structured survey work, and not a solu- important data through initiatives such satisfaction with home and work support services, and if done tion for all taxonomic groups, the value as the European Marine Observation circumstances, financial and physical appropriately, increasing of volunteer records and citizen science and Data Network (EMODNET) security, personality and aspirations, resilience to climate change. is increasingly recognized. Natural underpins work taking place under the strong and inclusive communities but Promoting a strong history recording schemes from the ter- Marine Strategy Framework Directive. also, critically, the type and quality of dialogue among researchers, restrial, freshwater and marine environ- This work is more than just an environments in which individuals managers and policymak- ment are co-operating, with a common exercise in data collection; marine life live. These factors change over time, ers across sectors such as aspiration of ensuring improved flow of recording is a great way to engage and sometimes rapidly. Whilst accepting Environment, Health, Social verified public records. A key aspect of empower people and it really does help that it is very difficult to determine Services, Economics, Law, this is a verification process by experts demonstrate what an amazing and the relative importance of elements Planning and Construction who ‘quality assure’ each record. varied place our marine environment is. of this mosaic, it does appear that for continues to pose challenges. The advent of social media and the Sealife Signpost (www. many, time spent on seashores and in Policymakers in health ease of submitting digital photographs marinesightingsnetwork.org) leads to coastal areas can provide a considerable departments are more likely have allowed the proliferation of com- known marine recording schemes in boost to overall well-being, however to focus on provision of munities of recorders with Facebook the UK, and we have recently added an defined. It is this observation that good services in hospitals groups for regions and taxonomic ‘Identification help’ section. If you might help guide our future actions. than on the latest research groups, as well as websites such as would like your scheme or group Implications for policymakers indicating that living by Volunteer recorders have been instrumental iSpot, where images of species can be added, please contact The Marine Strategy Framework the sea, or spending time in in improving our understanding of the posted that allow experts to support [email protected] distributions of protected species such Directive (Directive, 2008/56/ coastal areas, reduces the risk as the stalked jellyfishLucernariopsis new recorders with identifications. Becky Seeley is Recording Officer at

EC of the European Parliament, of succumbing to diseases Depledge. Mike Image: campanulata. Image: David Fenwick. Although social media and mobile the Marine Biological Association.

26 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 27 Sharing marine science Sharing marine science

The first international conference urged us to focus more and publish less. This workshop the potential difference between the 1948 and 1949 squid ‘seasons’ using as a model system greatly expanded showed that the web exists not just to transmit informa- interior and exterior of the fibre using the new voltage-clamp technique, in Plymouth over the four decades tion but to interact with many people and to listen to equipment Hodgkin had built and they managed to record propagating following the first announcement in on communicating what they are saying about the marine environment. found the internal ‘overshoot’ of 40–50 nerve impulses culminating in Nature, and involved such scientific As well as in-depth analysis and case studies, practi- mV above the external potential, the their quantitative theory of nervous luminaries as Bernard Katz and Richard hallmark of the action potential. After conduction published in a seminal Darwin Keynes. Obtaining recordings cal tips for communication came thick and fast, for marine science checking their results several times series of papers in 1952. A share was technically very difficult and ver 100 science communicators, scientists and example: always use images in your blog to increase traf- into late August 1939, and presumably it was the relief of fic (For David’s blogging top tips, see www.mba.ac.uk/ journalists gathered at the first International Marine with the Second World War finishing a fibre that started marinebiologist/issue-3-iccms); use any opportunity to OScience Communication Conference in Porto, imminent, they left Plymouth the tradition among the squid Portugal in September. get your science message across - hoax images or sensa- and published their findings scientists of throwing them Anyone believing that communicating marine science tional stories are a good excuse to explain a phenomenon; in a now famous letter to upwards over the shoulder is a waste of time would have had their conviction swiftly and word choice matters, for instance ‘uncertainty’ Nature (Action potentials with such speed that the despatched during a keynote address by Nancy Baron is interpreted by the public as ‘ignorance’. Messages recorded from inside a nerve sticky fibres became stuck fast (author of Escape from the Ivory Tower: A Guide to Making about climate warming or ocean acidification could be fibre.Nature 144, 710–711; to the ceiling! Some are still Your Science Matter) who told scientists that “being a com- better received if the word ‘range’ was used instead. 1939). Follow-up work for preserved in situ at the MBA municator is not a trade-off, it makes you a better scientist”. Also at the conference, POGO (Partnership for Hodgkin and Huxley became (pictured) to commemorate Speaker after speaker told delegates that they need clarity Observation of the Global Oceans) launched ‘Ocean impossible for another eight the hugely important on what they are saying, why they are saying it and, crucially, Communicators United’, an informal forum for oceano- years with the pair engaged work done there, and to who are they saying it to. If we are to realise the beneficial graphic research organisations to share information and in war work, during which celebrate its ushering in of outcomes of effective communication then we must identify expertise on marine science communications matters. time the MBA Laboratory Squid giant axons (normally preserved beneath perspex) on a laboratory modern electrophysiology and understand our audiences. For marine scientists and So the message for scientists is that communication was badly damaged by ceiling at the Marine Biological Association. Image: Fotonow. and the myriad of communicators whose business is making the invisible must be central to your enterprise. As Nancy Baron put bombing and all the elec- important discoveries in visible, and with so much at stake in our seas, clarity and it: know thy audience, know thyself, and know thy stuff! trophysiology equipment destroyed. of the Nobel Prize for Physiology neuroscience that have followed. focus in communication is of paramount importance. Guy Baker Starting again at the MBA in mid- or Medicine in 1963 followed. Professor David Sims (dws@mba. One of the conference workshops focused on Web 2.0, June 1947, and continuing through the Research using squid giant axons ac.uk) MBA Senior Research Fellow. which “describes Web sites that use technology beyond the static pages of earlier Web sites” (Wikipedia). Blog- ging, tweeting, LinkedIn, Google hangouts ... it can be Careers in marine biology bewildering. Use of social media is optional, but if scientists wish to communicate directly with people who read their TMB writes: As a leading learned available under the umbrella of ‘marine We also invite establishments that work, or participate in real-time conversations, then they society, an important part of the biology’, and that offer advice on how offer training in marine biology to tell can choose their platform and enter the fray. Reassuringly, mission of the Marine Biological young people can maximize their you why you should consider studying David Braun (senior digital editor at National Geographic) Association is to help ensure that a new chances of getting a foot in the door of with them. This will be a regular generation has the opportunity to their chosen career. We begin this feature, and in this edition Liverpool Delegates at the first IMSCC in Porto, Portugal, jointly organized by the CIIMAR (Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research of the Univer- increase our knowledge of the seas. The section with an article from Dr Paul University—the first UK university to sity of Porto), Ciência Viva (National Agency for Scientific and Technological Marine Biologist will publish articles Greer, a careers advisor with over 30 offer a degree in marine biology— Culture) and the European Marine Board Communications Panel (EMBCP). that look at the broad range of careers years experience. takes up the pen.

A career in marine biology is of wetsuit-clad figures swimming past tropical fish Inside the squid giant axon to examine coral reefs. This is a narrow view. In fact, What do marine biologists do? How can marine biologists work in many areas including policy, his summer marks the 75th who, in 1929, unexpectedly found the had confirmed experimentally that the industry, communications and media, research, educa- Loligo school students plan for a career in this anniversary of a ground-breaking giant nerve fibres of while look- structures were nerve fibres. However, tion, conservation and recreation (e.g. ecotourism). experiment undertaken at the ing for an epistellar body (a vestigial it was left to Hodgkin and Huxley desirable field? Paul Greer explains. T Research scientists study ocean systems at scales from Laboratory of the Marine Biological photoreceptive organ), such as he to probe the axon’s inner workings. arine biology is the study of all aspects of life in the molecules to ecosystems, and their relationships to Association by Alan Hodgkin and had already discovered in the octopus Their first experiment in the summer sea and the environment on which it depends. The people and changing environmental conditions. They Andrew Huxley that helped launch Eledone. Instead, Young found a group vacation of 1939 investigated the main aims are to improve our understanding of also study basic biology (often using marine organ- a golden era of neurobiology. of nerve cell bodies. Working at the nature of the nerve fibre contents. M In July 1939 the pair travelled from MBA, Young noticed that from each Finding it to be a solid gel and not a the marine world and to understand and predict changes in isms as ‘models’ —see pages 11 and 28) and develop Cambridge University to Plymouth cell projected a fine process, and that viscous liquid, Hodgkin had the insight ecosystems affected by human and natural disturbances. ways to solve problems. Areas of concern right now are to work on the giant nerve fibre of some 300 to 1500 of these processes to realize a fine saline-filled glass tube Marine biologists share a fascination for marine animals climate change, ocean acidification, overfishing, degra- the squid Loligo. The way had been were fused, forming the giant axons— containing a chlorided silver wire could and plants and a desire to spend a large proportion of dation of habitats and invasive non-native species. prepared for their landmark achieve- crucially having ‘large’ diameters be pushed down the giant fibre to act their lives close to the coast or on the open ocean. Many A typical project may last between 6 months and 3 years, ment by the Oxford zoologist J.Z. up to 1.0 mm that were suitable for as a non-polarizable electrode. With are motivated by a desire to ensure that future generations and focus on specific processes related to how organisms Young (MBA President 1976–1986) insertion of a fine electrode. Young this set-up they were able to record enjoy healthy and productive seas. The popular image function and interact with each other and the environment.

28 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 29 Sharing marine science Sharing marine science

Operational stages will probably include gathering rarely compulsory. A-level choices should include biology From 1973 until 2006 the marine biology degree at In addition to our longer residential field courses we samples, examining these to acquire relevant data and using and (preferably) chemistry. Applicants to university Liverpool was delivered partially from the Port Erin Marine also undertake local field excursions. These sites include specialist equipment or computer models for analysis. with other qualifications (such as BTEC) should consult Laboratory on the Isle of Man giving the programme a seven marine Special Sites of Scientific Interest, two Special Once established, findings will be disseminated through institutions first, as competition for places is strong. unique immersive aspect. However, the changing nature Areas of Conservation, three Ramsar sites (wetlands of papers in scientific journals, reports or articles in the Open days are good sources of information, too. of the science and student body led the university to international importance) and four Special Protection Areas mass media, and presentations to academics, govern- First (undergraduate) 3–4 year degree courses in marine review its marine biology provision. This resulted in the for birds. Within reach are a diversity of different habitats ment, industry and environmental pressure groups. biology are offered at about 16 British universities, all by (or programme being relocated to the main campus with £6 including the Sefton sand dune ecosystem (a national nature Many marine biologists work very near) the sea (see www.mba. million investment in marine biology staff and infrastruc- reserve), extensive mud flats, sand flats, rocky shores, salt- exclusively in laboratories and ac.uk/marinebiologist/issue-3-career- ture. Christopher Frid was appointed Chair of Marine marsh, saline lagoons, marshland, heathland and man-made offices for a research organization, in-marine-biology for a list, and the Biology and worked with the new team to redesign the habitats such as Antony Gormley’s seaside art installation on consultancy, government agency or article below about studying marine degree to reflect the challenges to marine biologists in university, analysing observations or biology). Alternatively, a relevant but the 21st century. The university offers three or four year data and developing ideas for further broader subject (e.g. biological sci- IMAREST accredited degree programmes in marine investigations. At universities, they ence) may be followed by a second, biology and marine biology with oceanography that are may have teaching responsibilities, higher degree such as MSc (Master’s) delivered by a dedicated teaching team with diverse research perhaps instructing newcomers to the or Phd (Doctorate). The second interests. We also offer a range of MSc and MRes courses. subject, or (with experience) supervis- route allows anyone hesitant about As a research-led university Liverpool’s curriculum is ing graduate research students. They committing to marine biology as a continually evolving to improve the quality and reflect also inform and learn from other pro- career more time to decide, as well advances in the core science. Over the last three years fessionals and scientists, such as geol- as providing the level of qualification we have been revising the programme so that it has ogists, physicists and biochemists. Not all marine biologist work in the field – but some typically required for research posts. now had a complete overhaul. The syllabus is fresh and The capacity for fine and accurate do! Image: MBA. A first degree is sufficient innovative and tackles many contemporary themes. observation, and care in gathering for many non-research jobs, The teaching is strongly informed by our research that and presenting data, are important. So are patience in unfa- and GCSE/A-levels may be enough for technician aims to improve our understanding of how ecosystems vourable conditions or when progress seems slow, physical posts. Though often hard to obtain, work experience are structured, how they function and how we can best Liverpool’s world heritage site: the three graces, as viewed from on-board the Marisa. fitness for collecting samples, and a disposition sociable in marine biology is important, and ‘ways in’ might be manage them in the face of today’s societal challenges. enough to work and live with others (sometimes for quite found through university departments, marine labo- The Liverpool degree places a strong emphasis on field Crosby beach2. The Irish Sea remains a key area for research long periods) on, for instance, a ship or remote research base. ratories, research institutes and government bodies. and laboratory training and our students embark on a with excellent facilities for linking marine biology to A high level of IT and communication skills are needed, too. If you would be interested in finding out more one week-long residential field trip in each year of study oceanographic processes and the need for scientific evidence Good GCSE passes in English and maths, plus high about careers in marine biology at an MBA event, to various UK localities. The students also undertake an to support management of contemporary challenges such grades in sciences (notably biology and chemistry), please contact Jack Sewell [email protected] independent overseas trip at the end of year 2. With a as fisheries overexploitation, offshore wind and tidal power provide a sound base. Geography, too, is useful, though Dr Paul Greer ([email protected]) subsidy from the university the students spread across schemes and the designation of marine conservation areas. the globe to research what is ‘hot’ in marine biology at Having the oldest fully enclosed dock system in the world research institutes, universities, aquaria, non-governmental Liverpool’s historic industries centred on international trade organizations and eco-education providers. Our students and the marine sector, and the city played major roles in have spread far and wide visiting every continent except the slave trade and industrial revolution. At the start of Antarctica1. For students interested in travel we also offer the 19th century 40% of the world’s trade passed through a semester abroad to various international destinations. Liverpool. Although port trade is now of lesser magnitude One hundred and thirty-five years of it remains the sixth largest UK port. The dock system is marine biology at the University of home to our research vessel the Marisa3. The Mersey’s long Liverpool history of human use led to it being described, in 1980, as By Bryony Caswell the most polluted river in Europe. Since then the estuary has undergone extensive regeneration and being located at the interface between industry and the sea, Liverpool presents he University of Liverpool was the first UK university biology degree can claim many esteemed alumni including exciting opportunities to explore the impacts that we humans to offer a degree in marine biology (in 1973), Professor Nicholas Owens (Director, Sir Alistair Hardy have had, and continue to have, on marine ecosystems. Tand its marine activities can be traced back to the Foundation for Ocean Science and previously Director of Liverpool University recognizes that 21st century marine appointment of William Herdman (later ‘Sir’) in 1881 as the British Antarctic Survey), Professor Steven Hawkins biologists need to be proximal to and focus on contem- a Professor of Natural History. Herdman developed and (Dean, University of Southampton and previously porary challenges, and their solutions. Our graduates are drove forward a major programme of marine biology and Director of the MBA), Professor Martin Attrill (Director trained to be independent marine scientists with up to date fisheries research. In 1890 the university’s first marine of the Marine Science Institute, University of Plymouth), 2 For a link to an article by a former student and staff on which organ- education programme began with courses to instruct Professor Michael Burrows (Scottish Association of The Marisa moored in the Albert Dock outside of Tate Liverpool. isms inhabit Gormley’s inner thigh, visit: fishermen ‘on biological matters with bearing on the fishing Marine Science) and Professor John Orr (former head www.mba.ac.uk/marinebiologist/issue-3-university-of-liverpool industry’ which ran for 14 years. The university’s marine of marine monitoring at the Environment Agency). 1 For links to a map of student’s destinations and projects visit: www. 3 For links to a video of our students on Marisa, visit: mba.ac.uk/marinebiologist/issue-3-university-of-liverpool www.mba.ac.uk/marinebiologist/issue-3-university-of-liverpool

30 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 31 Sharing marine science Sharing marine science knowledge and the skills to tackle the interests spread to fishing and one day ecosystem. The text is well sup- theme in the first half of the book challenges presented by the rapidly I watched amazed as a basking shark ported by the colour photographs of is to compare and contrast whale stunning landscapes and the more watching (‘visual consumption’) with changing marine global agenda. passed within 50 yards of me. In the interesting species discussed. It is the more extractive industry of whale Recent marine biology graduates are years that followed I retained an active easy to follow for those with prior hunting. The writers demonstrate that employed within private consultancies, interest in the UK coast, its marine life knowledge of the region, using whale watching is not necessarily government organizations, renew- and conservation, chastising myself for the map on page 9 as a simple the benign pastime it is sometimes able energy companies, universities, never having studied it academically. point of reference. For new visitors thought to be. A more nuanced the fishing and water treatment Searching for a silver lining from however, I would recommend the approach is required to replace the industries, the banking, health and within the dark cloud that was 2007, purchase of a map of the local area simple dichotomy of past debate. to benefit fully from this book. At its heart, this book deals with biomedical industries, research labo- I decided to follow my dream and Second year students on their residential It is my hope (and it would appear a powerful and controversial issue: ratories, schools, zoos, international study marine biology. So, 30 years field trip. that of the author) that this book may how to observe wildlife yet conserve education providers, charities and after I had decided to study marine breathe life into the ecotourism of the environment. One of the main non-governmental conservation organi- biology I finally got there. Oh, and really exciting word here is ‘your’. My the area and secure the future and determinants of tourist satisfaction zations; others go on to further study. if you are beyond the first spring of project was my idea and my supervisor conservation of its natural wonders. is the closeness of contact with One thing Liverpool has in addition youth, don’t let that put you off, not provided backup, encouragement and Thomas A. Baker cetaceans they experience and to a diversity of marine habitats is only do the staff give you a warm made sure that the necessary science this closeness inevitably causes adverse ecological changes. loads of character. The city is intrigu- welcome, so do the other students, was included. The guidance and Whale-watching: Sustainable And yet such activity has become ing for its history, architecture and age makes no difference (other than support that I received resulted in my Tourism and Ecological emblematic of marine conserva- culture. Scores of musicians, artists, a reduced capacity for alcohol). dissertation being of sufficient quality Management tion. Those taking part in this form and the urgent requirement writers and thespians originated here At Liverpool marine biologists for publication. The end result really of tourism feel they are doing their for effective and enforceable and continue to do so. With more are able to follow a range of options felt like I had added something to Edited by James Higham, Lars bit for saving the planet yet there is conservation management. Bejderand and Rob Williams little evidence of behaviour change galleries and museums than any UK beyond the core modules. For science. I have recently been filming for Sharks: Conservation, governance attributable to the experience. city, except London, Liverpool has a example, if you are interested in a programme with the BBC, based on ISBN 978-0-521-19597-3 and management is a comprehensive Whale watching also impacts on multitude of extra-curricular offerings. organism physiology, that is catered my research project, to be released later Cambridge University Press publication drawing on the exper- near shore human communities. A student’s perspective on marine tise of a wide range of individuals for as is advanced maths and statistics, this summer. Overall, I’m delighted I A few days ago, while sailing home Some communities are harmed and who present their, or their affiliated biology at the University of chemistry and ecology, and this for chose Liverpool and that I now have from France, I was visited by a small exploited but there are examples organisations, perspective on a wide Liverpool. By Paul Scott. me was one of the highlights of the a highly respected degree in marine pod of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops quoted of more positive outcomes range of relevant issues, all under- Unlike most students I started my degree. No degree would be complete biology from a university that has been truncatus). Travelling on an intercept- This book is not exclusively for pinned by the knowledge that sharks degree at Liverpool at age 49 and without the field trips that provided engaged in marine research since the ing course, they ‘stayed & played’ marine biologists; it is of equal are an essential element of a diverse with the boat for 15 minutes before interest to sociologists, social last month I graduated with a first fun, and a great grounding in practical 1880s. Liverpool. It’s never too late! and healthy marine environment. resuming their voyage. A timely geographers and those organising class MMarBiol degree. I am one of skills. Liverpool has its own research Dr Bryony Caswell (B.A.Caswell@ The delivery of effective con- reminder of the powerful emotional or regulating ecological tourism the first students to graduate with vessel which is used for teaching and liverpool.ac.uk) servation is far from simple, and impact generated by contact with and improving sustainability. And Department of Earth, Ocean and this book provides insight into the this new degree from Liverpool. My provides an extra skill layer. Also, you cetaceans. My smile for the rest of ultimately, it is an optimistic book Ecological Sciences at Liverpool complex interaction of stakehold- marine biology journey started aged can laugh as your friends throw up. the day was just that bit bigger. with the final section detailing case University. ers, governments, NGOs working 9 on a deserted rocky shore on the A major part of the third year is A diverse range of nearly 50 studies of sustainable solutions. Paul Scott is a recent graduate of the to secure management for often west coast of Ireland. My rock pool spent on the honours project. The contributors make this book on Kit Harling new 4 year programme at Liverpool. commercial whale watching a wide highly mobile species across ranging review of the topic. A central multiple national boundaries. Sharks: Conservation, Reflecting at times the col- surrounding Looe; from Seaton to Governance and Management laborations and allegiances of the Polperro along the South coast of authors’ own organisations, the Cornwall, and as far inland as Duloe book is not without its politics, but Edited by Erika J. Techera Reviews and Hessenford. He describes with these would be lost on the vast and Natalie Klien affection the various ecosystems majority of readers and do not Pocket Cornwall: Wild Looe and the organisms inhabiting them, ISBN 978-0-415-84476-5 detract from the book as a whole. without losing the sort of attention to Published by Earthscan Perhaps more disappointingly Author: Derek Spooner detail that tends to lead books such from Routledge the book overlooks the skates and rays, the ‘flat sharks’, which, as ISBN 13 978-0-906720-94-3 as this to seem sterile and detached. In January 2014 the IUCN Shark He has an intimate knowledge of Specialist Group released a report highlighted by Dulvy, represent five of Alison Hodge Publishers the times and places to see some of (Dulvy et al. 2014) which made for the seven most threatened families. Looe is a small fishing town built the more elusive species, describ- alarming reading, confirming that The shark conservation land- around the estuary of the Looe river ing features and characteristic shark, skate, ray and chimaera scape is changing rapidly, it’s a in south-east Cornwall, surrounded behaviours in order to allow even the species are among the world’s challenge to keep up and this by a large variety of habitats ter- diversity within a relatively small least experienced ecologist to find most threatened animals. book certainly provides some restrial and aquatic. The marine (less than 70 square mile) area. something new, rare and special. Never has there been a more food for thought – I can’t wait to conservation zone, nature reserves Dr Spooner takes the reader on The book is well organised, and pertinent time for the spotlight have the time to read it in detail. and national trust woodlands provide a journey around the natural world divided into a chapter for each to shine on Chondrichthyians Ali Hood

32 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Autumn 2014 | The Marine Biologist 33 Sharing marine science

TMB writes: The Marine Biological Association welcomes responses from readers of The Marine Biologist. In the article below, MBA member Professor Ray Williams responds to an article in issue 2 on a traditional oyster fishery in the Fal estuary in Cornwall, southwest England.

Oyster harvesting was not noting that “Oysters have been extracted in this way for well over 200 years” triggered in my memory the invention of a always as traditional as now very much more intensive harvesting method for oysters in the late nineteenth century, no doubt a misguided response R. B. Williams to the dramatic fall in commercial yields. An hour’s rum- illions of words must have been written about the maging through some old journals produced what I had Mpresent parlous state of the world’s fisheries and remembered—E. Veron’s illustration of his 1896 patent the reasons for their decline. Perhaps the major blame for specification (see Figure). Although current British native depleted fish stocks falls on the ever-increasing sophistica- oyster production is but a very small fraction of what it was tion of trawls, seines and long-lines, their efficiencies further during the mid-nineteenth century, if Veron’s monstrous enhanced by electronic tracking of shoal movements. machine had been widely used, commercially exploitable However, although native oyster populations in the UK native oyster populations might now not exist at all. have suffered severe reductions since the mid-nineteenth century, increases in efficiency of harvesting methods have tended to lag behind those for fin-fish. Despite that, increased use of the traditional dredge was alone culpable for the reduction of natural stocks in the longer term. Nevertheless, a recent article (Baker, G., 2014, A traditional fishery enters ‘a new era’, The Marine Biologist, 2: 32) related how retention of “traditional methods” has in recent times helped to maintain the sustainability of some commercial beds in the UK. The survival of the oyster fishery in the Fal estuary in Cornwall was succinctly described, thus: “The fishery is self-sustaining and regulating in terms of fishing effort – a kind of conservation by inefficiency”. And what is this essential inherent inefficiency, but the Dredging apparatus for oysters. Reproduced from Patents for continuation of the use of traditional dredges operated from Inventions – Abridgements of Specifications – Class 48, Fish and sailing or rowing boats? The caption of one photograph Fishing, Period A.D. 1893–96 (Patent Office, 1899, p. 27).

Professor Laurence David Mee, 1951 - 2014 rofessor Laurence Mee, the director of the Scot- social-ecological systems. He studied the relationship Ptish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), died between people and the ever-changing marine environ- suddenly and unexpectedly on August 13, 2014 in ment, and worked with politicians, community leaders, Inverness where he had been on busi- educationalists and business leaders to devise ness. He had suffered a severe stroke. ways to use our seas more sustainably. Laurence joined SAMS as director in 2008 Laurence was 63 years old, but seemed continuing an illustrious career including so much younger. He was a positive, ener- positions at the Marine Environmental Studies gised, energetic, fun loving intellectual. Laboratory in Monaco (1987-93), as founding He was a proud father of four children, a coordinator of the Global Environment Facility passionate sailor, diver, kayaker and swim- Black Sea Environment Programme in Istanbul mer. He excelled at telling anecdotes and (1993-98) and at the University of Plymouth his views on current affairs and history (1998-2008) as the UK’s first Professor of were highly informed, independent and Marine and Coastal Policy and then Director insightful. He was a man of the ocean; a of the Marine Institute. In 1998 Laurence also cosmopolitan who kept travelling the world. became a Pew Fellow in Marine Conservation. He is survived by his four children, Daniel Laurence had a long-standing relationship with (35), David (31), Anastasia (15) and Flora (2). the MBA through his service on the Council of Trustees There is an online memorial site http://laurence-mee. (2005-08) and as a member and collaborating researcher. tumblr.com/ for his many friends, colleagues and family Describing his work as “‘big picture’ science through members to share their sadness and happy memories, celebrat- a ‘macroscope’”, Laurence specialised in coupled marine ing Laurence’s outstanding life and memorable personality.

34 The Marine Biologist | Autumn 2014 Issue 4 of The Marine Biologist TheMarine

BiologistThe magazine of the marine biological community

Spring 2015

www.mba.ac.uk/marinebiologist