RESUMEN
Among marine ecosystems globally, those in the Mediterranean Sea, are facing many threats. New technologies are crucial for enhancing our understanding of marine habitats and ecosystems, which can be complex and resource-intensive to analyse using traditional techniques. We tested, for the first time, an integrated multi-platform approach for mapping the coastal benthic habitat in the Civitavecchia (northern Latium, Italy) coastal area. This approach includes the use of an Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV), and in situ measurements of ecosystem functionality. The echosounder data allowed us to reconstruct the distribution of bottom types, as well as the canopy height and coverage of the seagrass Posidonia oceanica. Our study further involved assessing the respiration (Rd) and net primary production (NCP) rates of P. oceanica and its associated community through in situ benthic chamber incubation. By combining these findings with the results of USV surveys, we were able to develop a preliminary spatial distribution model for P. oceanica primary production (PP-SDM). The P. oceanica PP-SDM was applied between the depths of 8 and 10 m in the studied area and the obtained results showed similarities with other sites in the Mediterranean Sea. Though in the early stages, our results highlight the significance of multi-platform observation data for a thorough exploration of marine ecosystems, emphasizing their utility in forecasting biogeochemical processes in the marine environment.
Asunto(s)
Alismatales , Ecosistema , Mar Mediterráneo , ItaliaRESUMEN
Underwater noise assessment is particularly important in coastal areas where a wide range of natural and anthropogenic sounds generate complex and variable soundscapes. In the last century, the number and size of noise sources has increased significantly, thereby increasing the ocean's background noise. Shipping is the main source of lower-frequency underwater noises (<500â¯Hz). This research aimed to provide an initial assessment of underwater noise levels in a coastal area of the northern Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy) using short-term recordings. Spatial and temporal variations in the noise level, and the type and number of ships sailing through the port were recorded. A significant correlation was found between ferry boats and sound pressure levels, indicating their role as a prevalent source of low frequency underwater noise in the project area. This research could provide the baseline for implementation of distribution and point-source underwater noise models that are required for sustainable coastal management.