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Percorrer CCMAR por Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) "12:Produção e Consumo Sustentáveis"
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- Assessing fish welfare in small-scale commercial fixed-net fisheries off the southern portuguese coastPublication . Samel, Vighnesh Nilesh; Costa, Rita; Marçalo, Ana; Frade, Magda; Bentes, Luis; Saraiva, João; Gonçalves, Jorge Manuel Santos; Guerreiro, Pedro Miguel; Claudio D'IglioDespite a growing interest in animal welfare in production systems, research on fish welfare remains limited, particularly in commercial fisheries. Fish caught in fixed-net fisheries experience multiple stressors from the time of capture to mortality on deck considered detrimental to their welfare. We examined the impact of bottom-set gill nets and on-board handling on catch welfare using behavioural and physiological indicators. Vitality assessments were performed on four commercially important fish species on-board fishing vessels through a devised vitality scale that included behaviours, morphological condition and reflexes as indicators of welfare. Physiological stress parameters (Cortisol, Glucose, Lactate and Osmolality) were evaluated in blood collected on deck and analysed in relation to the vitality scores. The vitality at arrival on deck as well as the rate of decrease in vitality differed significantly amongst the tested species. Furthermore, Generalised Linear Models predicted that several biological, operational, and environmental variables significantly affect the extent of time the fish shows activity, and hence, on the welfare. Elevated average cortisol levels were found at all the vitality stages highlighting the stress experienced by fish due to the fishing process. The findings of this study enable us to recommend welfare-friendly methods in set-net fisheries to promote better fishing standards.
- Automated prediction of spawning nights using machine learning analysis of flatfish behaviourPublication . Qadir, Abdul; Duncan, Neil; González-López, Wendy Ángela; Serratosa, Francesc; Fatsini Fernández, ElviraSenegalese sole (Solea senegalensis) broodstock exhibit distinct behaviours (Rest the Head, Guardian, Follow, and Locomotor activities) that are important for breeding success. Understanding and monitoring these behaviours are essential to understand successful breeding of Senegalese sole. However, manually analysing these behaviours represents a significant challenge for human observers and is a labour-intensive process. Moreover, due to reproductive dysfunctions in Senegalese sole, aquaculture operations currently depend on wild origin breeders for successful spawning a reliance that is unsustainable in the long term. Therefore, to address these limitations, this study introduces a custom-designed framework based on computer vision and machine learning techniques. The model integrates object detection and tracking mechanisms to recognize and monitor reproductive behaviours of Senegalese sole within aquaculture environments. By combining advanced tracking algorithms, our model effectively extracts and analyses behavioural patterns from video datasets. The automated model behavioural analyses compared with manual analyses demonstrated strong performance, with accuracy, precision, and specificity exceeding 87 %, and a Pearson correlation of R = 0.99 between manual observation data and automated data. The model analysed videos to accurately identify behaviours with minimal human intervention, thereby saving a substantial number of hours and opened up the possibility to analyse behaviours over longer periods, generating more data. This is the first study to automatically analyse reproductive behaviours across full-night video recordings in Senegalese sole, providing new insights into how behavioural patterns relate to spawning. These behavioural changes in relation to spawning enable the model to effectively predict spawning and non-spawning nights with accuracies ranging from 70 % to 100 %. Such predictive capability can reduce dependence on wild origin breeders, support timely gamete collection, improve reproductive planning, and serve as a potential tool for hatchery automation.
- Blackfordia virginica in non-native distribution range: a potential food source for humans?Publication . Cruz, Mariana; Dias, Ester; Custódio, Luísa; Encarnação, João Pedro da Silva; Cruz, Joana; Baptista, Vânia; Teodosio, MariaThe seasonal occurrence of the Black Sea jellyfish Blackfordia virginica Mayer, 1910 blooms is a reason of concern in the Guadiana estuary in the South of Portugal (South-West Europe), causing considerable economic and ecological impacts to fisheries. Due to jellyfish biochemical properties, they may represent an opportunity as an alternative food source for humans. In this context, this work evaluated the nutritional profile of B. virginica (proximate composition, amino acids, minerals, and fatty acids methyl ester content). Blackfordia virginica biomass may be adequate for human consumption, as it has nutritional properties resembling other edible jellyfish species, with relevant levels of minerals, moderate content in crude protein, low-fat content, and a low energetic value. The high Cd levels in the biomass of B. virginica from the Guadiana Estuary may compromise its safety as a food source. Moreover, if these jellyfishes are proven as an edible invasive species, their management through fisheries should evaluate the cost effectiveness of investments.
- Developing productivity and susceptibility attributes towards a rapid management-risk assessment of seaweedPublication . Milla-Figueras, David; Torres, P.; Botelho, A. Z.; Larrea, A.; Parente, M. I.; Afonso, P.The challenge of balancing conservation with sustainable use of marine resources faced by fisheries managers is quite often constrained by limited data on key species. This has become particularly true in the case of seaweed, which provide essential habitats for a diverse range of species in marine ecosystems and have long been valued by humans as food or, more recently, for their industrial applications. The expanding seaweed industry relies heavily on harvesting but historical declines in seaweed populations raise concerns over sustainability, leveraged by a general data-poor scenario for these species. To address this, we propose adapting the Productivity and Susceptibility Analysis (PSA) method—traditionally used in fishery assessments—for seaweeds. This novel approach incorporates the unique biology of seaweeds, including growth, reproduction, and susceptibility to environmental changes and harvesting practices, to evaluate their vulnerability. We applied this adapted PSA framework to a case study of seaweed harvesting in the Azores Archipelago, mid-north Atlantic, demonstrating its applicability in future science-based seaweed fisheries management srtategies. Among the 18 species studied, we identified five of high vulnerability (Cystoseira pustulata, Fucus spiralis, Gongolaria abies-marina, Laminaria ochroleuca, and Ericaria selaginoides). Our adapted PSA framework also considers local ecological impacts, stakeholder input, and relevant environmental factors, providing targeted management recommendations. While such a PSA does not replace stock assessments, it serves as a valuable risk assessment tool, identifying species needing greater management attention despite data limitations. Ultimately, this framework supports local, national and international policy and management measures, contributing to the conservation of coastal marine ecosystems.
- Early career ocean professionals' declaration on ocean negative carbon emissions for our ocean and future.Publication . Li, Shenghui; Addey, Charles I.; Roman, Raphaël; Hayashida, Hakase; Jiang, Chunhua; Hu, Chen; Coronado-Álvarez, Luz de Lourdes Aurora; Lim, Hyung-Gyu; Akmal, Surya Gentha; Orji, Chukwuka Moses; Arora, Parth; Li, Ruiqi; Pm, Sohan; Adesina, Rasheed B.; Lindemann, Christian; Ma, Deqiang; Sarkar, Saydul; Mascioni, Martina; Monteiro, Thiago; Liu, Chao; Ojwala, Renis Auma; Tabilog, Matthew Vincent; Roeroe, Kakaskasen Andreas; Oladejo, Hafeez O.; Daramola, Samuel O.; Da Costa, Delio; Guo, Ting; Chicaiza-Ortiz, Cristhian; Adebiyi, Abiola A.; Ahmed, Md Rasel; Baloch, Aidah; Andueza, Santiago Thomé; Ansong, Joseph Kofi; Appalanaidu, Sura; Asif, Furqan; Awa, Andrew Taylor; Baguya, Elnalee; Batista, Matheus; Benedict, Okeke Ebuka; Bobby, Fulton; Busumprah, Peter Teye; Cardoso, Marta; de Oliveira Carvalho, Andréa da Consolação; Crea, Terrence Daniel; Channimol, Ky; Cheah, Wee; Chinwendu, Igbodiegwu Gloria; Dinoi, Alessia; Egbe, King-James I; Eshun, Joseph; Gaitan Espitia, Juan Diego; Essel, Dorcas Akua; Fox, Natalie; Fraser, Kate; Gaglioti, Martina; Gerbrand, Koren; Gusatu, Laura; Hernández Contreras, Diego Alexander; Iradukunda, Theddy-Michel; Khalfan, Zahor Mwalim; Khatib, Laura; Kim, Minkyoung; Koch, Marta; Liu, Jihua; Mandal, Shailendra K; Manivong, Soukphansa; McAteer, Benedict; Mgbechidinma, Chiamaka Linda; Ngo, Thuy Hao; Nirmale, Manasi Suhas; Noonan Birch, Ronnie; Oginni, Tolulope E; Olalekan, Isa Elegbede; Offei-Darko, Lord; Puigcorbé, Viena; Gandhi, Rishi Rajendra; Rozaimi, Mohammad; Sanganyado, Edmond; Sengupta, Debarati; Singh, Priyatma; Sridhar, Dumpala; Sunanda, N.; Tailor, Falguni; Tintoré, Beatriz; Ugochukwu, Okoli Moses; Uthaipan, Khanittha; Vargas-Fonseca, O Alejandra; Verma, Anmol; Vives, Clara R.; Wallschuss, Sina; Wang, Lin; Wang, Yuhao; Wang, Yuntao; Meng, Yabing; Schoenbeck, María; Yan, Wei; Yen, Hanna; Luo, TingweiThis paper highlights the urgent need to accelerate research and action on ocean carbon sinks through human intervention, known as the Global Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions (Global-ONCE) Programme, as a vital strategy in global efforts to mitigate climate change. Achieving "net zero" by 2050 cannot rely on emission reductions alone, emphasizing the necessity of complementary approaches. Global-ONCE's mission extends beyond scientific exploration. It embodies a profound commitment to protecting and restoring blue carbon ecosystems, as well as implementing ocean-based solutions that are sustainable, equitable, and inclusive. Early career ocean professionals (ECOPs) are at the heart of these efforts, and their innovative approaches, technical expertise, and passion make them indispensable leaders in advancing ONCE initiatives. ECOPs bridge the gap between science and society, playing a relevant role in integrating cutting-edge research, technological advancements, and community-driven action to address climate threats. By bringing together diverse perspectives and leveraging their interdisciplinary expertise, ECOPs ensure that ONCE strategies are grounded in scientific rigor and practical feasibility. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, ECOPs not only spearhead research and innovation but also inspire collective action to safeguard our oceans. This paper amplifies the critical role of ECOPs as agents of change and calls for a unified global commitment to harness the ocean's potential for a climate-resilient future.
- Effect of petrochemical contaminants on the photosynthetic physiology on the seagrass Halophila baillonii AschersonPublication . Lima, Maria Cecilia S.; Lima, Thomaz Henrique A.; Sperandio, Marcus V. Loss; Yogui, Gilvan Takeshi; Silva, João; Magalhães, Karine M.Oil spills represent a significant threat to seagrasses as hydrocarbons can impair photosynthetic processes and plant functioning, although physiological responses may vary depending on the spill and environmental conditions This study investigates the physiological responses of Halophila baillonii when exposed to the watersoluble fraction (WSF) of crude oil. Photosynthetic pigment composition, maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm), and oxidative stress indicators malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were analyzed after shortterm exposure. A significant increase in chlorophyll a and b concentrations and variations in carotenoid levels were detected, while photochemical efficiency and oxidative stress indicators were maintained. These findings suggest that the species dynamically adjusts its pigment composition to optimize light capture and mitigate oxidative stress, demonstrating physiological plasticity. Its ability to tolerate WSF exposure highlights the species' short-term resilience to hydrocarbon pollution. Future studies should investigate the effects of long-term exposure to different oil types, such as boat fuel, and the recovery mechanisms of seagrasses.
- Environmental impact of brine from desalination plants on marine benthic diatom diversityPublication . Grammatiki, K.; Jonge, N. de; Nielsen, J. L.; Scholz, B.; Avramidi, E.; Lymperaki, Myrsini; Hesselsøe, M.; Xevgenos, Dimitris; Küpper, F. C.Benthic diatoms are sensitive indicators of environmental conditions at the seabed. In this study, benthic diatom communities at two brine outfall sites of reverse osmosis (RO) seawater desalination plants in Larnaca and Dhekelia, Cyprus, were investigated using a classical, microscopy-based approach and environmental DNA metabarcoding. In general, the diversity of diatoms measured by both methods (microscopy and eDNA metabarcoding), increased by distance from the brine discharge. Increased TOC and nutrient enrichment at brine outfalls contributed to decreased diatom diversity at the Larnaca outfalls, but the diatom diversity at Dhekelia was not driven by abiotic factors. The diatom communities at the outfalls were shown to be distinct and showed temporal variation across the sampling seasons with eDNA metabarcoding, but this was the case only for Dhekelia with microscopy. The results highlight the effect of local biogeography and different brine mixing methods on diatom diversity. The results revealed that conventional morphological methods and eDNA metabarcoding rarely leads to similar conclusions. However, the complementary results emphasise that more information can be derived when combining the methods for biodiversity impact assessments.
- Environmentally relevant concentrations of microplastics and phenanthrene show limited effects on the behaviour and physiology of green crab lineagesPublication . Cozzolino, Lorenzo; Nicastro, Katy R.; McQuaid, Christopher D.; Halldórsson, Halldór P.; Lima, Fernando P.; Zardi, Gerardo I.Plastic pollution is a growing environmental concern, with microplastics (MPs) and associated contaminants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) jeopardising the resilience and long-term survival of marine species. While species-specific effects have been well-documented, the role of intraspecific diversity in modulating species’ responses to these contaminants remains largely neglected. This study investigates whether genetically distinct lineages of the green crab (Carcinus maenas) differ in their behavioural and physiological responses to environmentally relevant concentrations of polyethylene microplastics (PE) and PE contaminated with phenanthrene (PE+PHE). Juvenile crabs from the Southwest European (SWE) and Icelandic (ICE) populations were exposed to control seawater, PE, or PE+PHE for 72 h, and their behavioural (i.e., food contest) and physiological performances (i.e., heart rate) were assessed. Overall, there were no significant effects of PE or PE+PHE on key behavioural traits related to food competition (e.g., latency to initiate movement, interbout intervals, contest outcome) or on physiological parameters such as heart rate. However, resource possession was significantly reduced in ICE crabs exposed to PE. Our findings suggest that C. maenas exhibits short-term resilience to MPs and PAHs, with similar behavioural responses across distinct genotypic lineages (SWE = ICE). However, differences in heart rates between genetically distinct populations, even in control conditions, highlight the potential effect of lineage-specific physiological plasticity. In addition, high inter-individual variability in behavioural responses suggests susceptibility to MPs and PAHs may not be uniform within populations. Long-term assessments incorporating individual-based analyses are needed to fully understand the complex interplay between plastic pollution, genetic diversity, and behavioural plasticity in this marine species.
- Evaluation of fatty acids profile as a useful tool towards valorization of by-products of agri-food industryPublication . Ferreira, Rui; Lourenço, Sílvia; D. Lopes, André; Andrade, Carlos; Câmara, José S.; Castilho, Paula; Perestrelo, RosaWorldwide, the food industry generates a large number of by-products from a wide variety of sources. These by-products represent an interesting and economical source of added value components with potential functionalities and/or bioactivities, which might be explored for industrial purposes, encouraging and promoting the circular economy concept. In this context, the current work aimed to evaluate the fatty acids (FAs) profile using gas chromatography–flame ionization detector (GC–FID) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), as well as the determination of related health lipid indices (e.g., atherogenic (AI) and thrombogenic (TI)) as a powerful strategy to investigate the potential applications of different agri-food by-products for human nutrition and animal feeding. This work results showed that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are the predominant group in grape pomace (72.7%), grape bunches (54.3%), and brewer’s spent grain (BSG, 59.0%), whereas carrot peels are dominated by monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs, 47.3%), and grape stems (46.2%), lees (from 50.8 to 74.1%), and potato peels (77.2%) by saturated fatty acids (SFAs). These findings represent a scientific basis for exploring the nutritional properties of agri-food by-products. Special attention should be given to grape pomace, grape bunches, and BSG since they have a high content of PUFAs (from 54.3 to 72.7%) and lower AI (from 0.11 to 0.38) and TI (from 0.30 to 0.56) indexes, suggesting their potential to provide a variety of health benefits against cardiovascular diseases including well-established hypotriglyceridemia and anti-inflammatory effects, products to which they are added.
- Experimental anthropogenic food restrictions drive short-term foraging and immuno-haematological changes in sympatric breeding gullsPublication . Pereira, Jorge M.; Ramos, Jaime A.; Domingues, Adriana; Almeida, Ana; Marçalo, Ana; Cascão, Catarina; Silva, Carlos; Rey, Daniel; Ceia, Filipe R.; Carvalho, Flávia; Santos, Ivo dos; Gonçalves, Jorge Manuel Santos; Cerveira, Lara R.; Frade, Magda; Laranjeiro, Maria I.; Oliveira, Nuno; Nascimento, Tânia; Paiva, Vítor H.; Norte, Ana C.Fishery discards and landfills provide major subsidies to scavenging seabirds, shaping their foraging behaviour and population dynamics. However, few studies have compared the behaviour and health of individuals with and without access to such predictable anthropogenic food subsidies (PAFS). We assessed the foraging behaviour and immuno-haematological condition of incubating Audouin's (Ichthyaetus audouinii) and yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) in response to an experimental restriction of access to fisheries and landfill food subsidies in southern Portugal. In response to food restrictions, gulls from both species increased their foraging distance from the colony, likely relying on alternative prey, and/or foraging in association with other fishing fleets in Portuguese or nearby Spanish waters. This was supported by a decrease in the number of yellow-legged gulls observed at both the landfill and the Culatra fishing harbour during the food restriction trials. These changes were followed by alterations in the leucocyte profiles of yellow-legged gulls, characterised by a predominance of heterophils over lymphocytes, i.e. an indicator of physiological stress. Our findings show that limited access to PAFS can influence gulls' foraging behaviour and physiological condition, highlighting their reliance/dependence on these predictable subsidies. These short-term responses suggest that PAFS may function as ecological traps for opportunistic seabirds during the breeding period. Understanding such responses is critical to predict long-term ecological consequences and to develop waste and fisheries management policies aligned with EU strategies.