USGS Friday’s Findings – October 27th 2023

Summary:

In estuarine ecosystems, terrestrial primary producers such as riparian and marsh vegetation are believed to promote resilient food webs through direct (detrital) and indirect (consumptive) pathways, but the inherent interconnectivity of estuarine systems often obscures the origins and importance of these terrestrial inputs. The goal of this study was to determine the relative contributions of terrestrial and aquatic primary producers to the estuarine food web and the pathways by which these primary sources influenced food web structure. To accomplish this, we used a Bayesian stable isotope mixing model to elucidate relationships among primary producers, invertebrates, and a pelagic and demersal fish species in the Nisqually River Delta, Washington, USA. Our findings are important for characterizing connectivity among estuarine habitat types and the means by which connectivity contributes to robust estuarine food webs.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The study conducted in the Nisqually River Delta, Washington, USA contributes to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals aim to promote sustainable ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and ensure food security. By understanding the relative contributions of terrestrial and aquatic primary producers to the estuarine food web, we can better manage and conserve these ecosystems for future generations.

Primary Producers and Food Web Structure

The study focused on elucidating the relationships among primary producers, invertebrates, and pelagic and demersal fish species in the Nisqually River Delta. Through the use of a Bayesian stable isotope mixing model, the researchers were able to determine the relative contributions of terrestrial and aquatic primary producers to the estuarine food web. This information is crucial for understanding the pathways by which these primary sources influence food web structure.

Connectivity and Robust Estuarine Food Webs

The findings of this study highlight the importance of connectivity among estuarine habitat types in promoting robust food webs. The interconnectivity of estuarine systems often obscures the origins and importance of terrestrial inputs. By characterizing this connectivity, we can better understand how different habitat types contribute to the overall resilience and stability of estuarine ecosystems.

Conclusion

The study conducted in the Nisqually River Delta, Washington, USA provides valuable insights into the relative contributions of terrestrial and aquatic primary producers to the estuarine food web. By using a Bayesian stable isotope mixing model, the researchers were able to elucidate the relationships among primary producers, invertebrates, and fish species. These findings contribute to our understanding of connectivity among estuarine habitat types and the means by which connectivity contributes to robust estuarine food webs. This knowledge is essential for the conservation and sustainable management of estuarine ecosystems, aligning with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 14: Life Below Water – This goal focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. The article discusses the importance of understanding the contributions of terrestrial and aquatic primary producers to the estuarine food web, which is directly related to the conservation and management of marine ecosystems.
• SDG 15: Life on Land – This goal aims to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. The article highlights the role of terrestrial primary producers, such as riparian and marsh vegetation, in promoting resilient food webs in estuarine ecosystems.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 14.2: By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans. The article emphasizes the need to understand the contributions of different primary producers to the estuarine food web, which is essential for the sustainable management and protection of marine and coastal ecosystems.
• Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements. The article highlights the importance of riparian and marsh vegetation in promoting resilient food webs in estuarine ecosystems, which contributes to the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator 14.2.1: Proportion of national exclusive economic zones managed using ecosystem-based approaches. This indicator can be used to measure progress towards Target 14.2, as it assesses the extent to which ecosystem-based approaches are being implemented in the management of marine and coastal ecosystems.
• Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area. Although not explicitly mentioned in the article, this indicator can be relevant to measuring progress towards Target 15.1, as it provides information on the extent of forest ecosystems, which are important for promoting resilient food webs in estuarine ecosystems.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table

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Source: usgs.gov

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