Document Type
STEM
Date
2025
Submission Date
January 2025
Abstract
Zostera marina is a species of marine macrophyte that has been largely prioritized in past submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) restoration initiatives within the Chesapeake Bay because of its 1) previous abundance, 2) demonstrated carbon burial abilities, and 3) observed ability for meadows of Z. marina to ameliorate low pH conditions. Due to the temperature variability and poor water quality in the Chesapeake Bay, Z. Marina beds have experienced several die-off events with limited capacity for regrowth. Ruppia maritima, an opportunistic species with tolerance to temperature shifts within the bay, may have the potential to maintain SAV coverage in areas experiencing Z. marina die-off. The potential benefits of calcium carbonate production via calcifying organisms such as Thalassia testudinum and Crassostrea virginica are also investigated. By considering the environmental needs of each organism in the location of SAV and bivalve restoration efforts, both species might experience an enhanced ability to perform essential biological functions including photosynthesis and calcification. This synergistic interaction benefits from the support provided by other organisms within the bay's ecosystem. Given the recent shifts in environmental qualities of the bay, this systematic review may have implications that could assist the formation of a more effective ocean acidification management strategy with a potential for increased longevity. Evidence from this review suggested that future SAV research initiatives in the Chesapeake Bay could investigate how biodiverse and traditional Z. marina beds compare in terms of pH modulation abilities, as well as how the strategic placement of calcifying organisms nearby restored SAV beds may impact the bed’s ecosystem services.
Rights
© The Author(s)
Is Part Of
Auctus
DOI
https://doi.org/10.25886/n9yt-hw22
