AI Article Synopsis
- Untreated sewage increases nutrient levels and alters ecosystem functions, affecting the nitrogen isotopic signature (δN) in seagrasses.
- Urbanization on Itaparica Island has led to minimal sewage treatment, risking further population growth and sewage input.
- A study showed δN values in seagrass (Halodule wrightii) vary with urbanization, indicating potential anthropogenic pressure that could harm seagrass ecosystems despite some positive correlation with growth.
Article Abstract
Untreated sewage discharged increases the nutrient loads and changes ecosystem functions. It increases the values of the nitrogen isotopic signature (δN) of primary producers such as seagrasses. Itaparica Island (Bahia, Brazil) has undergone extensive urbanization over 50 years. Most of the island has no sewage treatment, and a bridge's construction could increase its population ten times. We evaluated the effects of sewage inputs on the δN of seagrass (Halodule wrightii) across Itaparica Island in 14 areas of the island with different degrees of urbanization. Average values of δN ranged from -3.95 ‰ (±1.04 SD) to 2.73 ‰ (±1.61). The highest human occupation site also has the highest mean value of δN, and seagrass shoot density. The significant correlation (p < 0.05) between δN values and shoot density may indicate a possible anthropogenic pressure impacting meadow abundance. Despite a positive correlation, increased anthropogenic nutrient supply can support algae growth and harm seagrass ecosystems.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115578 | DOI Listing |
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