Predator-prey dynamics can affect assemblage structure and ecosystem processes representing a cen... more Predator-prey dynamics can affect assemblage structure and ecosystem processes representing a central theory in ecology. In coral reef ecosystems, recent evidences have suggested that sponge assemblages in regions with high diversity, like the Caribbean, are controlled by reef fishes (i.e., top-down control); however, this has been poorly studied in low diversity coral reefs. This study investigated the influence of fish predators on sponge assemblage structure in South Atlantic coral reefs, systems with high endemism and relatively low hermatypic coral diversity. We investigates (i) whether sponge cover is negatively correlated to spongivorous fish density, (ii) potential spongivory effects on competitive interactions between sponges and hermatypic corals, and (iii) foraging preferences of spongivorous fishes. Benthic cover and spongivorous fish density were assessed by photo sampling and visual census, respectively. We did not observe a negative correlation of the total density of spongivorous fish with total sponge cover. However, a significant negative correlation between density of fish species Pomacanthus arcuatus and cover of sponge species Scopalina ruetzleri was found. Spongivorous fish consumed preferentially the sponges Desmapsamma anchorata, Niphates erecta, Aplysina cauliformis, and S. ruetzleri, the first two species considered palatable and the second two with chemically defense mechanism. An increase to angelfish density was not related with the number of coral-sponge encounters. Thus, the effects of spongivorous fishes on sponges cover and competitive interactions with hermatypic corals is weaker in Southwestern Atlantic than previously reported in Caribbean coral reefs. We discuss how local human impacts (e.g., fishing and nutrients input) can influence the observed patterns.
Marine heatwaves (MHW) are predicted to occur with increased frequency, duration and intensity in... more Marine heatwaves (MHW) are predicted to occur with increased frequency, duration and intensity in a changing climate, with pervasive ecological and socioeconomic consequences. While there is a growing understanding of the ecological impacts of warming and marine heatwaves, much less is known about how they influence the underlying physiology and health of species, and the nutritional properties of tissue. We evaluated the effects of different heatwave scenarios and ocean warming on the nutritional properties and immune health of the harvested gastropod Turbo militaris. Neither heatwave scenarios nor elevated temperatures had significant impacts on morphometrics, proximate composition or inorganic content of T. militaris. However, an increased moisture content and non-significant trends, such as elevated amount of lipids, and an increased number of hemocytes in the blood of T. militaris in the heatwave treatments were suggestive of mild stress. Overall, our study suggests that T. militaris is resilient to marine heatwaves and warming, although delayed, additive or synergistic stress responses cannot be ruled out. Understanding the possible effects of ocean warming and heatwaves on fisheries species could improve management actions to avoid species impacts, socioeconomic losses and negative effects to ecosystem service provision in a changing climate.
Understanding how invasive species affect ecosystem processes of coral reefs can assist reef cons... more Understanding how invasive species affect ecosystem processes of coral reefs can assist reef conservation. Recruitment is a key population parameter and an important consideration in the invasive potential of non-native species. We evaluated the effects of the invasive corals Tubastraea tagusensis and T. coccinea on native coral recruitment and adult populations within distinct habitats in a southwestern Atlantic reef off the Brazilian coast. We investigated the relationships adult−adult and adult−recruit between invasive and native corals. Sixty experimental plates (20 × 20 cm) were installed for 13 mo in 2 reef habitats (reef wall and reef top) along a gradient of Tubastraea invasion. Using zero-inflated negative binomial regression models, we found that native recruit density declined with increased cover of adult invasive corals. Additionally, native adult coral cover also declined with elevated invasive cover. No significant differences were observed for native recruits (density) between habitats (reef wall and reef top) along the gradient of invasion. However, differences of native and invasive adult coral cover were found between habitats, with native coral more often found on the reef top and invasive coral widely dominant on the reef wall. Furthermore, the relationship between invasive recruitment and adult cover was significant on the reef wall. These findings reveal that coral recruitment is generally inversely related to the cover of the invasive coral Tubastraea. Unless management actions are undertaken to slow the invasion of Tubastraea, it will likely continue to impact native corals and degrade the natural values of the reef ecosystems they support.
The interactive effects of ocean warming and invasive species are complex and remain a source of ... more The interactive effects of ocean warming and invasive species are complex and remain a source of uncertainty for projecting future ecological change. Climate-mediated change to trophic interactions can have pervasive ecological consequences, but the role of invasion in mediating trophic effects is largely unstudied. Using manipulative experiments in replicated outdoor mesocosms, we reveal how near-future ocean warming and macrophyte invasion scenarios interactively impact gastropod grazing intensity and preference for consumption of foundation macroalgae (Ecklonia radiata and Sargassum vestitum). Elevated water temperature increased the consumption of both macroalgae through greater grazing intensity. Given the documented decline of kelp (E. radiata) growth at higher water temperatures, enhanced grazing could contribute to the shift from kelp-dominated to Sargassum-dominated reefs that is occurring at the low-latitude margins of kelp distribution. However, the presence of a native invader (Caulerpa filiformis) was related to low consumption by the herbivores on dominant kelp at warmer temperatures. Thus, antagonistic effects between climate change and a range expanding species can favour kelp persistence in a warmer future. Introduction of species should, therefore, not automatically be considered unfavourable under climate change scenarios. Climatic changes are increasing the need for effective management actions to address the interactive effects of multiple stressors and their ecological consequences, rather than single threats in isolation.
Invasive species threaten biodiversity and ecosystem function and can affect human well-being and... more Invasive species threaten biodiversity and ecosystem function and can affect human well-being and services (1). In November 2019, Brazil’s Tourism Ministry launched a plan to sink 1200 scrapped ships, trains, and airplanes, most of them inside marine protected areas (MPAs) (2), supposedly to promote diving tourism business. Artificial reefs, such as those that would be created by sinking these vehicles, are used by invading species as stepping-stones to natural reefs, causing ecological, social, and economic deterioration (3). This plan, if implemented, would undermine efforts to attain Convention on Biological Diversity (4) and National Environmental Policy Act targets (5). Among the most likely invaders are sun corals (Tubastraea spp.), which were first reported in Brazil on oil platforms in the 1980s (6). These noxious corals spread along 3000 km of coastline, aided by transfer on the oil industry’s platforms and drill ships as well as shipwrecks (3). On natural reefs, sun corals kill native corals, change reef communities and processes (3, 7), and modify seascapes (8), causing loss of income and requiring management (9). In February 2020, ships sunk by the government between 2009 and 2017 were found to be covered in sun corals near the largest coastal reefs in Brazil, the Costa dos Corais MPA (10). The government plans to sink scrap in other sensitive areas, such as the World Heritage–listed Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park (11). Brazil has a National Plan for the prevention of sun corals that highlights suppression of pathways of dispersion to protect native species and ecosystems (5), so the Tourism Ministry appears to be both ignoring its own government’s advice and violating international conservation principles. The plan is controversial given that natural reefs and wrecks in Brazil are not overused by divers, and SCUBA is an expensive sport available to few people (12). Instead of moving forward with the plan to sink more ships, Brazil should encourage better use of natural reefs and historical shipwrecks and support monitoring and management of reefs.
The mysterious oil spill that occurred off the northeast coast of Brazil in August 2019 has gener... more The mysterious oil spill that occurred off the northeast coast of Brazil in August 2019 has generated cons iderable coverage in the global media and was recently documented by Escobar in Science (1). Further commentaries quickly followed as scientists drew attention to the consequences of government inaction (2 , 3, 4 ), and the potential ecological impacts on rh odolith beds ( 5 ) and sandy beaches ( 6). Moreover, Brazilian f ederal environmental agencies have recently released results of studies of oil contamination for fishes, molluscs and crustaceans, indicating intermediate levels of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons for a range of species (7,8). To date, however, there has been little discussion of the potential impacts of oil on hermatypic corals, one of the main reef building species and a keystone species on the unique South Atlantic coral reefs (9). It is known that oil toxicity impedes coral reproduction, growth, behaviour, and development, reducing population survival and contributing to the global coral reef crisis (10,11). Coral reefs in northeast Brazil harbor the highest levels of diversity and endemism of vulnerable corals species in South Atlantic Ocean (9). Moreover, reef building corals are key species for ecosystems dynamics, creating complex physical structures that support high levels of biodiversity related to human food provision. Thus, we strong ly advocate for immediate measures to assess the impact of the largest ever oil spill in this region on the coral reefs including hermatypic corals.
Understanding how invasive species affect key ecological interactions and ecosystem processes is ... more Understanding how invasive species affect key ecological interactions and ecosystem processes is imperative for the management of invasions. We evaluated the effects of invasive corals (Tubastraea spp.) on fish trophic interactions in an Atlantic coral reef. Remote underwater video cameras were used to examine fish foraging activity (bite rates and food preferences) on invasive cover levels. Using a model selection approach, we found that fish feeding rates declined with increased invasive cover. For Roving Herbivores (RH) and Sessile Invertivores (SI), an abrupt reduction of fish feeding rates corresponded with higher invasive cover, while feeding rates of Territorial Herbivores (TH) and Mobile Invertivores (MI) decreased linearly with cover increase. Additionally, some fish trophic groups, such as RH, SI and Omnivores (OM), had lower densities in reef sections with high invasive cover. These findings demonstrate that invasive corals negatively impact fish-benthic interactions, and could potentially alter existing trophic relationships in reef ecosystems.
We reported the genus Parasphyraenops (Perciformes: Serranidae) in the Brazilian Biogeographic Pr... more We reported the genus Parasphyraenops (Perciformes: Serranidae) in the Brazilian Biogeographic Province. Four Parasphyraenops incisus specimens were identified based in body shape and color pattern through underwater remote video records, on shallow coral reefs in the Bahia state, Brazil. In the video frames P. incisus was observed swimming close to the pomacentrid Chromis multilineata at 14 m depth, being this the shallowest record for this species. The present record expands on 6.500 km the southern limit of distribution of P. incisus in the Western Atlantic.
Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology, 2019
Reef ecosystems are structurally complex and characterized by an array of abiotic (e.g., rocks an... more Reef ecosystems are structurally complex and characterized by an array of abiotic (e.g., rocks and crevices) and biotic (sessile benthic organisms) physical features, many of which having the potential to act as refuge for prey organisms. Small cryptic reef fish species, including the redlip blenny, Ophioblennius trinitatis, rely on refuges to survive against predators, suggesting that adequate refuge choice is an important part of this species' anti-predator strategy. Here we investigated blennies' selectivity in refuge choice along its ontogeny simulating predation risk in the field and laboratory. Our results revealed that when exposures to a predator model in the field, blennies chiefly fled to only two refuge types, namely crevices and sea urchins, and these choices reflected blennies' ontogeny. Furthermore, blennies' densities and flight-initiation distances were positively and negatively correlated with sea urchin densities, respectively, underscoring the refuge role played by this benthic organism. On high risk conditions, the fish translated into faster retreat to shelter and to higher refuge se-lectivity, when compared to low risk. The choices observed in situ were partly similar among initial and terminal phases. These findings suggest that small reef fishes may be selective in their refuge choice even using habitats with high structural complexity. This choice selectivity may be part of an antipredator strategy that considers the relative level of protection offered by the physical features of habitats, along with their conspicuity within rocky reef ecosystems.
We describe the first record of a whale shark, Rhincodon typus, feeding in Brazilian coastal wate... more We describe the first record of a whale shark, Rhincodon typus, feeding in Brazilian coastal waters, and the first stranding record in the state of Bahia, Northeast Brazil. In April 2008, an individual of R. typus was observed surface feeding on Dromiidae crab larvae in the continental shelf off the coast of Bahia, near a gas platform. Other fishes were observed foraging in association with the whale shark. We also document the first stranding of R. typus on the coast of Bahia in October 2013. Biometric data confirmed that the stranded whale shark was a juvenile. Stomach content analysis revealed the ingestion of Geryonidae crab larvae. Plastic debris were also found in the gastric lumen of the stranded juvenile whale shark, and we speculate that it could have been a contributing factor to the stranding, and subsequent death of the whale shark. Crab larvae were observed in both of our records and likely to consist as relevant prey items for R. typus in Brazilian continental shelf. Our study provided a contribution on the diet and feeding behaviour of whale sharks in tropical oligotrophic waters and highlights the risks of marine pollution for the species conservation.
The French angelfish Pomacanthus paru (Pomacanthidae) is recognised as an important cleaner in tr... more The French angelfish Pomacanthus paru (Pomacanthidae) is recognised as an important cleaner in tropical reef environments, yet its clients remain relatively undescribed in the literature. Here, we report observations of their cleaning behaviour when interacting with different species of cryptobenthic fish clients. The study was conducted in Bahia state, northeast Brazil. In this region, French angelfish were seen cleaning four different species of cryptobenthic species, respectively, Coryphopterus glaucofraenum, Scorpaena plumieri, Labrisomus cricota, and Scartella cristata. These records show the broad spectra of clients that cleaners interact with in coral reef systems, as well as give important insights into the poorly known cryptobenthic fishes habits and ecology.
Fishing pressure affects the behavior of reef fish, especially of fishery-targeted species. In th... more Fishing pressure affects the behavior of reef fish, especially of fishery-targeted species. In this context, it is critical to understand if fish behavior is preserved in no-take areas (NTAs), which are considered the best instrument for the recovery of fish stocks. Comparing the flight initiation distances (FIDs) of fish inhabiting multiple-use areas (MUAs), where fishing is allowed (including spearfishing), and NTAs is a useful approach to test whether NTAs can be effective as fish refuges. Here, we compared whether the FIDs of two target (Sparisoma axillare and Scarus trispinosus) and one non-target (Halichoeres poeyi) labrids are greater in the MUAs than in the NTAs. We also investigated whether group size (GS) and body size (BS) exert any effect on the FID. We sampled four MUAs and four NTAs in the Abrolhos Bank (Brazil). We found that only for the targeted species FID was shorter inside the NTAs and that the BS had a positive effect on the FID of all species. The GS and BS of the fish are greater in the NTAs than in the multiple-use areas only for S. trispinosus. Our study shows that fish, especially those species that are fishery targets, display an avoidance behavior against spearfishermen likely as a consequence of fishing pressure. We suggest that the NTAs in Abrolhos are not only important sites for the recovery of fish stocks but also possibly act as a repository area of naïve fish (fish that allow human approach), for reefs open for fishing. A pressão pesqueira afeta o comportamento de peixes recifais, especialmente nas espécies alvo de pesca. Nesse contexto é importante entender se áreas fechadas a pesca (" no-take areas " : NTAs), consideradas como melhor instrumento para recuperação dos estoques pesqueiros, garantem a integridade dos comportamentos dos peixes. Comparar distâncias iniciais de fuga (" fligth initiation distance " : FIDs) de espécies entre recifes de uso múltiplos (" multiple-use areas " : MUAs), onde a pesca é permitida (incluindo a pesca submarina), e as NTAs é uma abordagem útil para testar se as NTAs podem ser efetivas como refúgios para peixes recifais. Nesse trabalho FIDs de duas espécies alvo (Sparisoma axillare e Scarus trispinosus) e uma não alvo (Halichoeres poeyi) foram comparadas entre MUAs e NTAs. A possível influência do tamanho do grupo (" group size " : GS) e o tamanho do corpo (" body size " : BS) sobre FID também foram investigados. Foram amostradas quatro MUAs e quatro áreas NTAs no banco dos Abrolhos (Brasil). Nossos resultados mostraram que apenas FID das espécies alvo de pesca foi menor dentro de NTAs e que o BS teve um efeito positivo no FID de todas as espécies. Dentro da NTA, GS e BS foram maiores do que em recifes abertos à pesca apenas para S. trispinosus. Finalmente, sugerimos que NTAs em Abrolhos não são apenas importantes como recuperação dos estoques pesqueiros, mas estão possivelmente atuando como uma área repositória de peixes " ingênuos " (peixes que permitem aproximação humana) para os recifes onde a pesca é permitida.
In this review, we describe the history, pathways and vectors of the biological invasion of the a... more In this review, we describe the history, pathways and vectors of the biological invasion of the azooxanthellate coral Tubastraea (Scleractinia: Den-drophylliidae) throughout the world. In order to do so we consulted previous reports in the literature and also compiled new unpublished information on the distribution of the three species of Tubastraea which have been reported as non indigenous species, both within their native and non-native ranges and also on vectors, and where cryptogenic. We combine these data with historical aspects of marine vectors in order to get insights into how Tubastraea species have successfully spread around the world, established and invaded and where future studies would be best focused. T. coccinea and T. tagusensis are recognized as being highly invasive and are causing significant environmental, economic, and social impacts requiring management actions. The third species, T. micranthus so far only reported outside its native range on oil platforms, may have similar potential for negative impact. The vectors of introduction of Tubastraea may have changed throughout history and the biological invasion of these invasive corals may reflect changing practices, demands and legislation in shipping activities over the years. Today it is clear that these corals are fouling organisms strongly associated with oil and gas platforms worldwide which are thus primary vectors for new introductions.
Background: The alien cup-coral Tubastraea spp. has been increasingly reported in the Southwester... more Background: The alien cup-coral Tubastraea spp. has been increasingly reported in the Southwestern Atlantic since the 1980s. More recently it was observed on the East coast of Brazil, the area with the highest biodiversity in the Southwest Atlantic. In the present study, we report the actual distribution of Tubastraea tagusensis and Tubastraea coccinea around Todos os Santos Bay (TSB), an important system in the Southwest Atlantic coast.
The alien coral Tubastraea spp. has invaded Atlantic coral reefs since 1940s, but their effects o... more The alien coral Tubastraea spp. has invaded Atlantic coral reefs since 1940s, but their effects on native coral assemblages are poorly understood. In this study the effects on coral assemblage structure and tissue mortality in native competitors by alien coral were investigated. We compared native coral cover in zones with and without T. tagusensis and evaluated the mortality of native coral species in natural encounters with T. tagusensis. Additionally, we evaluated the effects of contact with this invader on two native corals, Siderastrea stellata and Montastraea cavernosa, using a manipulative experiment. Multivariate analyses detected significant differences between coral assemblages in invaded and non-invaded zones. In the invaded zone, we observed greater cover of T. tagusensis on reef walls (34.9 ± 4.2 %) than on reef tops (18.5 ± 4.1 %). Madracis decactis and Mussismilia hispida were significantly less abundant in invaded zone than in non-invaded zones at the reef walls. Manipulative experiments showed a significant increase in tissue mortality of S. stellata (3.2 ± 1.4 cm2) after 60 days of contact with T. tagusensis and no effects on M. cavernosa after 90 days of contact. In natural encounters, 52 and 0.1 % of the S. stellata and M. cavernosa colonies, respectively, showed tissue mortality. These results indicate that competitive interactions with native competitors are important to understand alien coral establishment on coral reef. Our study documents the negative effects of the alien coral on coral reef assemblages and reinforces the urgent need for monitoring and management actions to control the expansion of this invader on Brazilian reefs.
Predator-prey dynamics can affect assemblage structure and ecosystem processes representing a cen... more Predator-prey dynamics can affect assemblage structure and ecosystem processes representing a central theory in ecology. In coral reef ecosystems, recent evidences have suggested that sponge assemblages in regions with high diversity, like the Caribbean, are controlled by reef fishes (i.e., top-down control); however, this has been poorly studied in low diversity coral reefs. This study investigated the influence of fish predators on sponge assemblage structure in South Atlantic coral reefs, systems with high endemism and relatively low hermatypic coral diversity. We investigates (i) whether sponge cover is negatively correlated to spongivorous fish density, (ii) potential spongivory effects on competitive interactions between sponges and hermatypic corals, and (iii) foraging preferences of spongivorous fishes. Benthic cover and spongivorous fish density were assessed by photo sampling and visual census, respectively. We did not observe a negative correlation of the total density of spongivorous fish with total sponge cover. However, a significant negative correlation between density of fish species Pomacanthus arcuatus and cover of sponge species Scopalina ruetzleri was found. Spongivorous fish consumed preferentially the sponges Desmapsamma anchorata, Niphates erecta, Aplysina cauliformis, and S. ruetzleri, the first two species considered palatable and the second two with chemically defense mechanism. An increase to angelfish density was not related with the number of coral-sponge encounters. Thus, the effects of spongivorous fishes on sponges cover and competitive interactions with hermatypic corals is weaker in Southwestern Atlantic than previously reported in Caribbean coral reefs. We discuss how local human impacts (e.g., fishing and nutrients input) can influence the observed patterns.
Marine heatwaves (MHW) are predicted to occur with increased frequency, duration and intensity in... more Marine heatwaves (MHW) are predicted to occur with increased frequency, duration and intensity in a changing climate, with pervasive ecological and socioeconomic consequences. While there is a growing understanding of the ecological impacts of warming and marine heatwaves, much less is known about how they influence the underlying physiology and health of species, and the nutritional properties of tissue. We evaluated the effects of different heatwave scenarios and ocean warming on the nutritional properties and immune health of the harvested gastropod Turbo militaris. Neither heatwave scenarios nor elevated temperatures had significant impacts on morphometrics, proximate composition or inorganic content of T. militaris. However, an increased moisture content and non-significant trends, such as elevated amount of lipids, and an increased number of hemocytes in the blood of T. militaris in the heatwave treatments were suggestive of mild stress. Overall, our study suggests that T. militaris is resilient to marine heatwaves and warming, although delayed, additive or synergistic stress responses cannot be ruled out. Understanding the possible effects of ocean warming and heatwaves on fisheries species could improve management actions to avoid species impacts, socioeconomic losses and negative effects to ecosystem service provision in a changing climate.
Understanding how invasive species affect ecosystem processes of coral reefs can assist reef cons... more Understanding how invasive species affect ecosystem processes of coral reefs can assist reef conservation. Recruitment is a key population parameter and an important consideration in the invasive potential of non-native species. We evaluated the effects of the invasive corals Tubastraea tagusensis and T. coccinea on native coral recruitment and adult populations within distinct habitats in a southwestern Atlantic reef off the Brazilian coast. We investigated the relationships adult−adult and adult−recruit between invasive and native corals. Sixty experimental plates (20 × 20 cm) were installed for 13 mo in 2 reef habitats (reef wall and reef top) along a gradient of Tubastraea invasion. Using zero-inflated negative binomial regression models, we found that native recruit density declined with increased cover of adult invasive corals. Additionally, native adult coral cover also declined with elevated invasive cover. No significant differences were observed for native recruits (density) between habitats (reef wall and reef top) along the gradient of invasion. However, differences of native and invasive adult coral cover were found between habitats, with native coral more often found on the reef top and invasive coral widely dominant on the reef wall. Furthermore, the relationship between invasive recruitment and adult cover was significant on the reef wall. These findings reveal that coral recruitment is generally inversely related to the cover of the invasive coral Tubastraea. Unless management actions are undertaken to slow the invasion of Tubastraea, it will likely continue to impact native corals and degrade the natural values of the reef ecosystems they support.
The interactive effects of ocean warming and invasive species are complex and remain a source of ... more The interactive effects of ocean warming and invasive species are complex and remain a source of uncertainty for projecting future ecological change. Climate-mediated change to trophic interactions can have pervasive ecological consequences, but the role of invasion in mediating trophic effects is largely unstudied. Using manipulative experiments in replicated outdoor mesocosms, we reveal how near-future ocean warming and macrophyte invasion scenarios interactively impact gastropod grazing intensity and preference for consumption of foundation macroalgae (Ecklonia radiata and Sargassum vestitum). Elevated water temperature increased the consumption of both macroalgae through greater grazing intensity. Given the documented decline of kelp (E. radiata) growth at higher water temperatures, enhanced grazing could contribute to the shift from kelp-dominated to Sargassum-dominated reefs that is occurring at the low-latitude margins of kelp distribution. However, the presence of a native invader (Caulerpa filiformis) was related to low consumption by the herbivores on dominant kelp at warmer temperatures. Thus, antagonistic effects between climate change and a range expanding species can favour kelp persistence in a warmer future. Introduction of species should, therefore, not automatically be considered unfavourable under climate change scenarios. Climatic changes are increasing the need for effective management actions to address the interactive effects of multiple stressors and their ecological consequences, rather than single threats in isolation.
Invasive species threaten biodiversity and ecosystem function and can affect human well-being and... more Invasive species threaten biodiversity and ecosystem function and can affect human well-being and services (1). In November 2019, Brazil’s Tourism Ministry launched a plan to sink 1200 scrapped ships, trains, and airplanes, most of them inside marine protected areas (MPAs) (2), supposedly to promote diving tourism business. Artificial reefs, such as those that would be created by sinking these vehicles, are used by invading species as stepping-stones to natural reefs, causing ecological, social, and economic deterioration (3). This plan, if implemented, would undermine efforts to attain Convention on Biological Diversity (4) and National Environmental Policy Act targets (5). Among the most likely invaders are sun corals (Tubastraea spp.), which were first reported in Brazil on oil platforms in the 1980s (6). These noxious corals spread along 3000 km of coastline, aided by transfer on the oil industry’s platforms and drill ships as well as shipwrecks (3). On natural reefs, sun corals kill native corals, change reef communities and processes (3, 7), and modify seascapes (8), causing loss of income and requiring management (9). In February 2020, ships sunk by the government between 2009 and 2017 were found to be covered in sun corals near the largest coastal reefs in Brazil, the Costa dos Corais MPA (10). The government plans to sink scrap in other sensitive areas, such as the World Heritage–listed Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park (11). Brazil has a National Plan for the prevention of sun corals that highlights suppression of pathways of dispersion to protect native species and ecosystems (5), so the Tourism Ministry appears to be both ignoring its own government’s advice and violating international conservation principles. The plan is controversial given that natural reefs and wrecks in Brazil are not overused by divers, and SCUBA is an expensive sport available to few people (12). Instead of moving forward with the plan to sink more ships, Brazil should encourage better use of natural reefs and historical shipwrecks and support monitoring and management of reefs.
The mysterious oil spill that occurred off the northeast coast of Brazil in August 2019 has gener... more The mysterious oil spill that occurred off the northeast coast of Brazil in August 2019 has generated cons iderable coverage in the global media and was recently documented by Escobar in Science (1). Further commentaries quickly followed as scientists drew attention to the consequences of government inaction (2 , 3, 4 ), and the potential ecological impacts on rh odolith beds ( 5 ) and sandy beaches ( 6). Moreover, Brazilian f ederal environmental agencies have recently released results of studies of oil contamination for fishes, molluscs and crustaceans, indicating intermediate levels of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons for a range of species (7,8). To date, however, there has been little discussion of the potential impacts of oil on hermatypic corals, one of the main reef building species and a keystone species on the unique South Atlantic coral reefs (9). It is known that oil toxicity impedes coral reproduction, growth, behaviour, and development, reducing population survival and contributing to the global coral reef crisis (10,11). Coral reefs in northeast Brazil harbor the highest levels of diversity and endemism of vulnerable corals species in South Atlantic Ocean (9). Moreover, reef building corals are key species for ecosystems dynamics, creating complex physical structures that support high levels of biodiversity related to human food provision. Thus, we strong ly advocate for immediate measures to assess the impact of the largest ever oil spill in this region on the coral reefs including hermatypic corals.
Understanding how invasive species affect key ecological interactions and ecosystem processes is ... more Understanding how invasive species affect key ecological interactions and ecosystem processes is imperative for the management of invasions. We evaluated the effects of invasive corals (Tubastraea spp.) on fish trophic interactions in an Atlantic coral reef. Remote underwater video cameras were used to examine fish foraging activity (bite rates and food preferences) on invasive cover levels. Using a model selection approach, we found that fish feeding rates declined with increased invasive cover. For Roving Herbivores (RH) and Sessile Invertivores (SI), an abrupt reduction of fish feeding rates corresponded with higher invasive cover, while feeding rates of Territorial Herbivores (TH) and Mobile Invertivores (MI) decreased linearly with cover increase. Additionally, some fish trophic groups, such as RH, SI and Omnivores (OM), had lower densities in reef sections with high invasive cover. These findings demonstrate that invasive corals negatively impact fish-benthic interactions, and could potentially alter existing trophic relationships in reef ecosystems.
We reported the genus Parasphyraenops (Perciformes: Serranidae) in the Brazilian Biogeographic Pr... more We reported the genus Parasphyraenops (Perciformes: Serranidae) in the Brazilian Biogeographic Province. Four Parasphyraenops incisus specimens were identified based in body shape and color pattern through underwater remote video records, on shallow coral reefs in the Bahia state, Brazil. In the video frames P. incisus was observed swimming close to the pomacentrid Chromis multilineata at 14 m depth, being this the shallowest record for this species. The present record expands on 6.500 km the southern limit of distribution of P. incisus in the Western Atlantic.
Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology, 2019
Reef ecosystems are structurally complex and characterized by an array of abiotic (e.g., rocks an... more Reef ecosystems are structurally complex and characterized by an array of abiotic (e.g., rocks and crevices) and biotic (sessile benthic organisms) physical features, many of which having the potential to act as refuge for prey organisms. Small cryptic reef fish species, including the redlip blenny, Ophioblennius trinitatis, rely on refuges to survive against predators, suggesting that adequate refuge choice is an important part of this species' anti-predator strategy. Here we investigated blennies' selectivity in refuge choice along its ontogeny simulating predation risk in the field and laboratory. Our results revealed that when exposures to a predator model in the field, blennies chiefly fled to only two refuge types, namely crevices and sea urchins, and these choices reflected blennies' ontogeny. Furthermore, blennies' densities and flight-initiation distances were positively and negatively correlated with sea urchin densities, respectively, underscoring the refuge role played by this benthic organism. On high risk conditions, the fish translated into faster retreat to shelter and to higher refuge se-lectivity, when compared to low risk. The choices observed in situ were partly similar among initial and terminal phases. These findings suggest that small reef fishes may be selective in their refuge choice even using habitats with high structural complexity. This choice selectivity may be part of an antipredator strategy that considers the relative level of protection offered by the physical features of habitats, along with their conspicuity within rocky reef ecosystems.
We describe the first record of a whale shark, Rhincodon typus, feeding in Brazilian coastal wate... more We describe the first record of a whale shark, Rhincodon typus, feeding in Brazilian coastal waters, and the first stranding record in the state of Bahia, Northeast Brazil. In April 2008, an individual of R. typus was observed surface feeding on Dromiidae crab larvae in the continental shelf off the coast of Bahia, near a gas platform. Other fishes were observed foraging in association with the whale shark. We also document the first stranding of R. typus on the coast of Bahia in October 2013. Biometric data confirmed that the stranded whale shark was a juvenile. Stomach content analysis revealed the ingestion of Geryonidae crab larvae. Plastic debris were also found in the gastric lumen of the stranded juvenile whale shark, and we speculate that it could have been a contributing factor to the stranding, and subsequent death of the whale shark. Crab larvae were observed in both of our records and likely to consist as relevant prey items for R. typus in Brazilian continental shelf. Our study provided a contribution on the diet and feeding behaviour of whale sharks in tropical oligotrophic waters and highlights the risks of marine pollution for the species conservation.
The French angelfish Pomacanthus paru (Pomacanthidae) is recognised as an important cleaner in tr... more The French angelfish Pomacanthus paru (Pomacanthidae) is recognised as an important cleaner in tropical reef environments, yet its clients remain relatively undescribed in the literature. Here, we report observations of their cleaning behaviour when interacting with different species of cryptobenthic fish clients. The study was conducted in Bahia state, northeast Brazil. In this region, French angelfish were seen cleaning four different species of cryptobenthic species, respectively, Coryphopterus glaucofraenum, Scorpaena plumieri, Labrisomus cricota, and Scartella cristata. These records show the broad spectra of clients that cleaners interact with in coral reef systems, as well as give important insights into the poorly known cryptobenthic fishes habits and ecology.
Fishing pressure affects the behavior of reef fish, especially of fishery-targeted species. In th... more Fishing pressure affects the behavior of reef fish, especially of fishery-targeted species. In this context, it is critical to understand if fish behavior is preserved in no-take areas (NTAs), which are considered the best instrument for the recovery of fish stocks. Comparing the flight initiation distances (FIDs) of fish inhabiting multiple-use areas (MUAs), where fishing is allowed (including spearfishing), and NTAs is a useful approach to test whether NTAs can be effective as fish refuges. Here, we compared whether the FIDs of two target (Sparisoma axillare and Scarus trispinosus) and one non-target (Halichoeres poeyi) labrids are greater in the MUAs than in the NTAs. We also investigated whether group size (GS) and body size (BS) exert any effect on the FID. We sampled four MUAs and four NTAs in the Abrolhos Bank (Brazil). We found that only for the targeted species FID was shorter inside the NTAs and that the BS had a positive effect on the FID of all species. The GS and BS of the fish are greater in the NTAs than in the multiple-use areas only for S. trispinosus. Our study shows that fish, especially those species that are fishery targets, display an avoidance behavior against spearfishermen likely as a consequence of fishing pressure. We suggest that the NTAs in Abrolhos are not only important sites for the recovery of fish stocks but also possibly act as a repository area of naïve fish (fish that allow human approach), for reefs open for fishing. A pressão pesqueira afeta o comportamento de peixes recifais, especialmente nas espécies alvo de pesca. Nesse contexto é importante entender se áreas fechadas a pesca (" no-take areas " : NTAs), consideradas como melhor instrumento para recuperação dos estoques pesqueiros, garantem a integridade dos comportamentos dos peixes. Comparar distâncias iniciais de fuga (" fligth initiation distance " : FIDs) de espécies entre recifes de uso múltiplos (" multiple-use areas " : MUAs), onde a pesca é permitida (incluindo a pesca submarina), e as NTAs é uma abordagem útil para testar se as NTAs podem ser efetivas como refúgios para peixes recifais. Nesse trabalho FIDs de duas espécies alvo (Sparisoma axillare e Scarus trispinosus) e uma não alvo (Halichoeres poeyi) foram comparadas entre MUAs e NTAs. A possível influência do tamanho do grupo (" group size " : GS) e o tamanho do corpo (" body size " : BS) sobre FID também foram investigados. Foram amostradas quatro MUAs e quatro áreas NTAs no banco dos Abrolhos (Brasil). Nossos resultados mostraram que apenas FID das espécies alvo de pesca foi menor dentro de NTAs e que o BS teve um efeito positivo no FID de todas as espécies. Dentro da NTA, GS e BS foram maiores do que em recifes abertos à pesca apenas para S. trispinosus. Finalmente, sugerimos que NTAs em Abrolhos não são apenas importantes como recuperação dos estoques pesqueiros, mas estão possivelmente atuando como uma área repositória de peixes " ingênuos " (peixes que permitem aproximação humana) para os recifes onde a pesca é permitida.
In this review, we describe the history, pathways and vectors of the biological invasion of the a... more In this review, we describe the history, pathways and vectors of the biological invasion of the azooxanthellate coral Tubastraea (Scleractinia: Den-drophylliidae) throughout the world. In order to do so we consulted previous reports in the literature and also compiled new unpublished information on the distribution of the three species of Tubastraea which have been reported as non indigenous species, both within their native and non-native ranges and also on vectors, and where cryptogenic. We combine these data with historical aspects of marine vectors in order to get insights into how Tubastraea species have successfully spread around the world, established and invaded and where future studies would be best focused. T. coccinea and T. tagusensis are recognized as being highly invasive and are causing significant environmental, economic, and social impacts requiring management actions. The third species, T. micranthus so far only reported outside its native range on oil platforms, may have similar potential for negative impact. The vectors of introduction of Tubastraea may have changed throughout history and the biological invasion of these invasive corals may reflect changing practices, demands and legislation in shipping activities over the years. Today it is clear that these corals are fouling organisms strongly associated with oil and gas platforms worldwide which are thus primary vectors for new introductions.
Background: The alien cup-coral Tubastraea spp. has been increasingly reported in the Southwester... more Background: The alien cup-coral Tubastraea spp. has been increasingly reported in the Southwestern Atlantic since the 1980s. More recently it was observed on the East coast of Brazil, the area with the highest biodiversity in the Southwest Atlantic. In the present study, we report the actual distribution of Tubastraea tagusensis and Tubastraea coccinea around Todos os Santos Bay (TSB), an important system in the Southwest Atlantic coast.
The alien coral Tubastraea spp. has invaded Atlantic coral reefs since 1940s, but their effects o... more The alien coral Tubastraea spp. has invaded Atlantic coral reefs since 1940s, but their effects on native coral assemblages are poorly understood. In this study the effects on coral assemblage structure and tissue mortality in native competitors by alien coral were investigated. We compared native coral cover in zones with and without T. tagusensis and evaluated the mortality of native coral species in natural encounters with T. tagusensis. Additionally, we evaluated the effects of contact with this invader on two native corals, Siderastrea stellata and Montastraea cavernosa, using a manipulative experiment. Multivariate analyses detected significant differences between coral assemblages in invaded and non-invaded zones. In the invaded zone, we observed greater cover of T. tagusensis on reef walls (34.9 ± 4.2 %) than on reef tops (18.5 ± 4.1 %). Madracis decactis and Mussismilia hispida were significantly less abundant in invaded zone than in non-invaded zones at the reef walls. Manipulative experiments showed a significant increase in tissue mortality of S. stellata (3.2 ± 1.4 cm2) after 60 days of contact with T. tagusensis and no effects on M. cavernosa after 90 days of contact. In natural encounters, 52 and 0.1 % of the S. stellata and M. cavernosa colonies, respectively, showed tissue mortality. These results indicate that competitive interactions with native competitors are important to understand alien coral establishment on coral reef. Our study documents the negative effects of the alien coral on coral reef assemblages and reinforces the urgent need for monitoring and management actions to control the expansion of this invader on Brazilian reefs.
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supposedly to promote diving tourism business. Artificial reefs, such as those that would be created by sinking these vehicles, are used by invading species as stepping-stones to natural reefs, causing ecological, social, and economic deterioration (3). This plan, if implemented, would undermine efforts to attain Convention on Biological Diversity (4) and National Environmental Policy Act targets (5). Among the most likely invaders are sun corals (Tubastraea spp.), which were first reported in Brazil on oil platforms in the 1980s (6). These noxious corals spread along 3000 km of coastline, aided by transfer on the oil industry’s platforms and drill ships as well as shipwrecks (3). On natural reefs, sun corals kill native corals, change reef communities and processes (3, 7),
and modify seascapes (8), causing loss of income and requiring management (9). In February 2020, ships sunk by the government between 2009 and 2017 were found to be covered in sun corals near
the largest coastal reefs in Brazil, the Costa dos Corais MPA (10). The government plans to sink scrap in other sensitive areas, such as the World Heritage–listed Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park (11). Brazil has a National Plan for the prevention of sun corals that highlights suppression of pathways of dispersion to protect native species and ecosystems (5), so the Tourism Ministry appears to be both ignoring its own government’s advice and violating international conservation principles. The plan is controversial given that natural reefs and wrecks in Brazil are not overused by divers, and SCUBA is an expensive sport available to few people (12). Instead of moving forward with the plan to sink more ships, Brazil should encourage better use of natural reefs and
historical shipwrecks and support monitoring and management of reefs.
Hydrocarbons for a range of species (7,8). To date, however, there has been little discussion of the potential impacts of oil on hermatypic
corals, one of the main reef building species and a keystone species on the unique South Atlantic coral reefs (9). It is known that oil toxicity impedes coral reproduction, growth, behaviour, and development, reducing population survival and contributing to the global coral reef crisis (10,11). Coral reefs in northeast Brazil harbor the highest levels of diversity and endemism of vulnerable corals species in South Atlantic Ocean (9). Moreover, reef building corals are key species for ecosystems dynamics, creating complex physical structures that support high levels of biodiversity related to human food provision. Thus, we strong ly advocate for immediate measures to assess the impact of the largest ever oil spill in this region on the coral reefs including hermatypic corals.
platforms, may have similar potential for negative impact. The vectors of introduction of Tubastraea may have changed throughout history and the biological invasion of these invasive corals may reflect changing practices, demands and legislation in shipping activities over the years. Today it is clear that these corals are fouling organisms strongly associated with oil and gas platforms worldwide which are thus primary
vectors for new introductions.
supposedly to promote diving tourism business. Artificial reefs, such as those that would be created by sinking these vehicles, are used by invading species as stepping-stones to natural reefs, causing ecological, social, and economic deterioration (3). This plan, if implemented, would undermine efforts to attain Convention on Biological Diversity (4) and National Environmental Policy Act targets (5). Among the most likely invaders are sun corals (Tubastraea spp.), which were first reported in Brazil on oil platforms in the 1980s (6). These noxious corals spread along 3000 km of coastline, aided by transfer on the oil industry’s platforms and drill ships as well as shipwrecks (3). On natural reefs, sun corals kill native corals, change reef communities and processes (3, 7),
and modify seascapes (8), causing loss of income and requiring management (9). In February 2020, ships sunk by the government between 2009 and 2017 were found to be covered in sun corals near
the largest coastal reefs in Brazil, the Costa dos Corais MPA (10). The government plans to sink scrap in other sensitive areas, such as the World Heritage–listed Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park (11). Brazil has a National Plan for the prevention of sun corals that highlights suppression of pathways of dispersion to protect native species and ecosystems (5), so the Tourism Ministry appears to be both ignoring its own government’s advice and violating international conservation principles. The plan is controversial given that natural reefs and wrecks in Brazil are not overused by divers, and SCUBA is an expensive sport available to few people (12). Instead of moving forward with the plan to sink more ships, Brazil should encourage better use of natural reefs and
historical shipwrecks and support monitoring and management of reefs.
Hydrocarbons for a range of species (7,8). To date, however, there has been little discussion of the potential impacts of oil on hermatypic
corals, one of the main reef building species and a keystone species on the unique South Atlantic coral reefs (9). It is known that oil toxicity impedes coral reproduction, growth, behaviour, and development, reducing population survival and contributing to the global coral reef crisis (10,11). Coral reefs in northeast Brazil harbor the highest levels of diversity and endemism of vulnerable corals species in South Atlantic Ocean (9). Moreover, reef building corals are key species for ecosystems dynamics, creating complex physical structures that support high levels of biodiversity related to human food provision. Thus, we strong ly advocate for immediate measures to assess the impact of the largest ever oil spill in this region on the coral reefs including hermatypic corals.
platforms, may have similar potential for negative impact. The vectors of introduction of Tubastraea may have changed throughout history and the biological invasion of these invasive corals may reflect changing practices, demands and legislation in shipping activities over the years. Today it is clear that these corals are fouling organisms strongly associated with oil and gas platforms worldwide which are thus primary
vectors for new introductions.