Potential effect of increased global CO₂ availability on the depth distribution of the seagrass Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile: A tentative assessment using a carbon balance model

Authors: Invers, Olga; Tomàs, Fiona; Pérez, Marta; Romero, Javier

Source: Bulletin of Marine Science, Volume 71, Number 3, November 2002 , pp. 1191-1198(8)

Publisher: University of Miami - Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science

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Abstract:

The hypothesis that seagrass depth limits could be increased as a consequence of the rising of CO₂ in the atmosphere and the sea has been examined for the Mediterranean seagrass Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile. To do so, a carbon budget for this species near its depth limit was computed under natural (i.e., present day) and under experimentally increased [CO₂]_aq conditions. We obtained photosynthesis (as net oxygen release) vs. irradiance relationships at pH 8.2 (normal) and 7.5 for leaves collected at several months (March, May and July 1999) and of distinct ages. P_max (net oxygen release at saturating irradiance) increased significantly at low pH, while I_k (irradiance at which photosynthesis becomes light saturated) and dark respiration were not affected by changes in pH. Photosynthetic parameters were incorporated in an available carbon budget model. During the study period (March-July 1999), lowering of pH (increasing [CO₂]_aq) caused an 80% increase in the net carbon balance. We tentatively conclude that an increase in [CO₂]_aq will significantly enhance the carbon budget of this seagrass, suggesting the possibility of colonisation beyond its present depth limit.

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Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2002-11-01

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The Bulletin of Marine Science is dedicated to the dissemination of high quality research from the world's oceans. All aspects of marine science are treated by the Bulletin of Marine Science, including papers in marine biology, biological oceanography, fisheries, marine affairs, applied marine physics, marine geology and geophysics, marine and atmospheric chemistry, and meteorology and physical oceanography.
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