Using a food web model to predict the effects of Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) accidental spills on deep-sea hydrothermal vents from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) region

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2024

Authors

Guerra, A (Author) Other; Azevedo, A (Author) Other; Amorim, F (Author) Other; Soares, J (Author) Other; Neuparth, T (Author) Other; Santos, MM (Author) FCUP; Martins, I (Author) Other; Colaco, A (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Marine Pollution Bulletin

Vol. 199

ISSN: 0025-326X

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 3 Citations

Scopus - 3 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Z-RHQ

DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115974

Abstract (EN): Deep-sea hydrothermal vents host unique ecosystems but face risks of incidents with Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) along busy shipping lanes such as the transatlantic route. We developed an Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE) model of the Menez Gwen (MG) vent field (MG-EwE) (Mid -Atlantic Ridge) to simulate ecosystem effects of potential accidental spills of four different HNS, using a semi-Lagrangian Dispersion Model (sLDM) coupled with the Regional Ocean Modelling System (ROMS) calibrated for the study area. Food web modelling revealed a simplified trophic structure with low energy efficiency. The MG ecosystem was vulnerable to disruptions caused by all tested HNS, yet it revealed some long-term resilience. Understanding these impacts is vital for enhancing Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure plans (SPCC) in remote marine areas and developing tools to assess stressors effects on these invaluable habitats.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 15