Document of bibliographic reference 368801

BibliographicReference record

Type

Bibliographic resource

Type of document

Journal article

BibLvlCode

AS

Title

Small Mediterranean coastal lagoons under threat: hydro-ecological disturbances and local anthropogenic pressures (size matters)

Abstract

Mediterranean coastal lagoons are affected by multiple threats (demographic pressures, eutrophication, climate change) expected to increase in the future and impact the ecosystem services provided. Conservation norms and scientific studies usually focus on large lagoons (> 0.5 km²) due to their economic importance, while they ignore smaller lagoons. These are poorly understood and often unprotected, despite their prevalence within the Mediterranean region and their importance. Qualitative and quantitative characterisation of small lagoons, in terms of functioning and sensitivity to global and local changes, are needed to develop appropriate management strategies. For this purpose, this work provides the first inventory of all Corsican lagoons and has investigated three of them of small size (Arasu, Santa Giulia, Balistra), characterised by contrasting anthropogenic contexts (highly modified/disturbed, medium disturbance, quasi-pristine). At the regional level, 91 of the 95 lagoons identified are < 0.5 km², making Corsica a good example for the study of small Mediterranean lagoons. The three case studies showed differences in their seasonal biogeochemical cycles and phytoplankton communities (biomass, diversity, photosynthetic efficiency). Arasu and Santa Giulia lagoons showed an increase in watershed urbanisation (+ 12% and + 6% in 30 years), high phytoplankton biomass, low diversity and blooms of potentially harmful dinoflagellates. Conversely, Balistra lagoon showed a good status overall, but some anthropogenic pollution sources within its watershed. This study demonstrates the importance of small lagoons at regional and Mediterranean scale, and provides knowledge on studied local sites but also potential applications elsewhere. The importance of an integrated approach considering lagoons within their adjacent connected systems (watershed and sea) and anthropogenic contexts is highlighted.

WebOfScience code

https://www.webofscience.com/wos/woscc/full-record/WOS:000940164000002

Bibliographic citation

Ligorini, V.; Crayol, E.; Huneau, F.; Garel, E.; Malet, N.; Garrido, M.; Simon, L.; Cecchi, P.; Pasqualini, V. (2023). Small Mediterranean coastal lagoons under threat: hydro-ecological disturbances and local anthropogenic pressures (size matters). Est. Coast. 46(8): 2220-2243. https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12237-023-01182-1

Topic

Marine

Is peer reviewed

true

Access rights

open access

Is accessible for free

true