Biomass and nutrient dynamics of major green tides in Ireland: Implications for biomonitoring. (February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bermejo, Ricardo; Golden, Nessa; Schrofner, Elena; Knöller, Kay; Fenton, Owen; Serrão, Ester; Morrison, Liam
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 175(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-02
• Subjects: Green tide -- Nitrogen -- Phosphorus -- Ulva -- Tissue nutrient content -- Nitrogen isotope ratio; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113318
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: The control of macroalgal bloom development is central for protecting estuarine ecosystems. The identification of the nutrients limiting the development of macroalgal blooms, and their most likely sources is crucial for management strategies. Three Irish estuaries (Argideen, Clonakilty and Tolka) affected by green tides were monitored from June 2016 to August 2017. During each sampling occasion, biomass abundances, tissue N and P contents, and δ 15 N were determined for tubular and laminar morphologies of Ulva . All estuaries showed maximum biomass during summer and minimum during winter. Tissue nutrient contents revealed P rather than N limitation. The δ 15 N during the peak bloom indicated agriculture as the most likely source of nitrogen in the Argideen and Clonakilty, and urban wastewaters in the Tolka. No differences in the δ 15 N, and the tissue nutrients content were observed between morphologies. The period between May and July is most suitable for bioassessment of green tides. Highlights: Tubular morphologies of Ulva showed slightly higher tissue N and P contents. Tubular and laminar forms of Ulva can be used indistinctly for bioassessment. Ulva tissue nutrient contents reveal P rather than N limitation in all estuaries. The period between May and July is most suitable for bioassessment of green tides. Isotopic fractionation is lower during summer allowing identification of N sources.