Abstract
Coastal development, such as dredging, is increasing sediment loads to many marine ecosystems. The effects of increased
sediment loads on sponges were poorly known, so I used a multidisciplinary approach to assess the impact of sediments on
the survival, growth, physiology, ultrastructure and gene expression of three, abundant and broadly distributed lndo-Pacific sponge species. The most sensitive species was Carteriospongia foliascens. In comparison, Cliona orientalis exhibited limited mortality and was resilient. Finally, Ianthella basta was tolerant to sediment-related stress. Species-specific responses to stress, potential bioindicators, and stress tolerance mechanisms were identified and characterised for use by researchers, regulators and managers.
sediment loads on sponges were poorly known, so I used a multidisciplinary approach to assess the impact of sediments on
the survival, growth, physiology, ultrastructure and gene expression of three, abundant and broadly distributed lndo-Pacific sponge species. The most sensitive species was Carteriospongia foliascens. In comparison, Cliona orientalis exhibited limited mortality and was resilient. Finally, Ianthella basta was tolerant to sediment-related stress. Species-specific responses to stress, potential bioindicators, and stress tolerance mechanisms were identified and characterised for use by researchers, regulators and managers.
Original language | English |
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Qualification | Doctor of Philosophy |
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Award date | 14 Dec 2017 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Unpublished - 2017 |