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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Impacts of copper contamination on a rocky intertidal predator-prey interaction

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Author(s):
Pardal, Andre [1, 2, 3] ; Martinez, Aline S. [3] ; Christofoletti, Ronaldo A. [3] ; Karythis, Simon [1] ; Jenkins, Stuart R. [1]
Total Authors: 5
Affiliation:
[1] Bangor Univ, Sch Ocean Sci, Menai Bridge LL59 5AB, Anglesey - Wales
[2] Fed Univ ABC, CCNH, UFABC, Ctr Nat & Human Sci, Rua Santa Adelia 166, BR-09210170 Santo Andre, SP - Brazil
[3] Univ Fed Sao Paulo, IMar, Inst Marine Sci, UNIFESP, Rua Dr Carvalho de Mendonca 144, BR-11070100 Santos, SP - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 3
Document type: Journal article
Source: Marine Pollution Bulletin; v. 162, JAN 2021.
Web of Science Citations: 1
Abstract

Metal contamination can change ecological interactions with potential effects on community dynamics. However, understanding real effects of metals on biota relies on studies undertaken in natural conditions. Through a field experiment, we investigated the effects of copper contamination on the responses of a barnacle prey and its predator, the dogwhelk, and explicitly their interaction. Contamination increased barnacle mortality and reduced predation with no effects on interaction strength. This was because the higher mortality of the prey compensated for the lower consumption of the predator. Despite not affecting the interaction strength, these results suggest a decrease in energy flow in the trophic chain that may lead to important changes in community structure and ecosystem functioning. This study shows the importance of manipulative experiments designed to provide mechanistic insights into ecological interactions to better clarify the effect of stressors on the structure and dynamic of communities. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 16/11947-7 - Coastal hardening: knowledge status, impacts and future projections
Grantee:Aline Sbizera Martinez
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
FAPESP's process: 16/24551-4 - The strength of ecological interactions and the environmental mediation at coastal ecosystems
Grantee:Ronaldo Adriano Christofoletti
Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
FAPESP's process: 17/09641-0 - Effect of metal contamination on a rocky intertidal predator-prey interaction
Grantee:Andre Luiz Pardal Souza
Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate