Zooplankton can serve as indicators of ecosystem health, water quality, food web structure, and environmental change, including those associated with climate change and ocean acidification (OA). Laboratory studies demonstrate that low pH and high pCO2 associated with OA can significantly affect the physiology and survival of zooplankton, with differential responses among taxa. While laboratory studies can be indicative of zooplankton response to OA, in situ responses will ultimately determine the fate of populations and ecosystems. In this perspective, we compare expectations from experimental studies with observations made in Puget Sound (Washington, United States), a highly dynamic estuary with known vulnerabilities to low pH and high pCO2. We found little association between empirical measures of in situ pH and the abundance of sensitive taxa as revealed by meta-analysis, calling into question the coherence between experimental studies and field observations. The apparent mismatch between laboratory and field studies has important ramifications for the design of long-term monitoring programs and interpretation and use of the data produced. Important work remains to be done to connect traits that are sensitive to OA with those that are ecologically relevant and reliably observable in the field.
This paper includes updated Oklahoma distribution maps and informational fact sheets for purple loosestrife, multiflora rose, and Japanese honeysuckle to promote awareness of invasive plant issues. The current information on the Internet contains discrepancies concerning the county-level distribution data of these three invasive plants in Oklahoma. To gain a more accurate dataset, the authors created a survey and sent it to Oklahoma State University Extension Educators, Master Gardeners, Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts, and other knowledgeable, credible parties across Oklahoma. Once survey data were compiled, 3 distribution maps were created and 6 unique fact sheets were produced with the updated information. From the 22 survey responses, 7 new county records were documented and mapped. Two new sightings were documented for purple loosestrife in Canadian County and Rogers County; 4 new sightings were documented for multiflora rose in the counties of Atoka, Johnston, Payne, and Pushmataha; and 1 new sighting was documented for Japanese honeysuckle in Garfield County. The findings in this research detail the need for updated distribution maps and increased education to prevent the spread of problem species and provide the public with methods of eradication.
Changing ocean conditions, such as ocean acidification, hypoxia, and ocean warming, are impacting marine ecosystems and posing a variety of immediate and future challenges for natural resource managers and affiliated industries. In order to successfully facilitate adaptation and mitigation responses to changing ocean conditions, research efforts and synthesis products should be developed in collaboration with resource managers and decision makers. Using interviews and surveys, we sought to advance collaborative science approaches by identifying the most pressing concerns, barriers, and research and monitoring needs of natural resource managers in Washington State, USA, where marine waters are particularly vulnerable to changing ocean conditions. Survey participants indicated that they are most concerned by ocean acidification, followed by water temperature and hypoxia. Our findings reveal a desire to prioritize laboratory and in situ studies to identify survival thresholds of ecologically or commercially important organisms, specifically zooplankton, fish, Dungeness crab, and conditions that promote harmful algal blooms. Scientific literature and in-person workshops and meetings were the preferred way for survey participants to learn about new science and affiliated results. Our findings highlight a need for continued and expanded monitoring and research efforts, the development of interpretive science products for resource managers, and enhanced communication between entities before information on changing ocean conditions can be effectively incorporated into resource management and policy decisions.
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