Joanne S Porter | Heriot-Watt University (original) (raw)

Papers by Joanne S Porter

Research paper thumbnail of Revealing the Identity, History and Nature Conservation Status of Royal Navy Vessel Steam Pinnace 744, in Lyness, Scapa Flow, Orkney Isles

International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, Oct 24, 2023

Presence of a steam pinnace at Lyness, Orkney Islands, was first documented in United Kingdom Hyd... more Presence of a steam pinnace at Lyness, Orkney Islands, was first documented in United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) records by letter from a local scallop diver. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) tasked ORCA and Sula Diving Ltd to document this wreck during the Scapa Flow 2013 Marine Archaeology Survey. Side scan sonar and oral history provided initial clues to the identity. Reference to archival data and the Pinnace 199 renovation project (Portsmouth Historic Shipyard) enabled confirmation of its identity and understanding of how the vessel came to lie on the seabed off Rinnigal Pier. Photogrammetry revealed preservation status and during biological surveys two species of national conservation importance were recorded.

Research paper thumbnail of Artificial reef design affects benthic secondary productivity and provision of functional habitat

Ecology and Evolution, Feb 1, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Bryozoan Metabolites: An Ecological Perspective

Research paper thumbnail of A checklist of marine bryozoan taxa in Scottish sea regions

Research paper thumbnail of Sounding out maerl sediment thickness: an integrated data approach

Scientific reports, Mar 3, 2024

Maerl beds are listed as a priority marine feature in Scotland. They are noted for creating suita... more Maerl beds are listed as a priority marine feature in Scotland. They are noted for creating suitable benthic habitat for diverse communities of fauna and flora and in supporting a wide array of ecosystem services. Within the context of climate change, they are also recognised as a potential blue carbon habitat through sequestration of carbon in living biomass and underlying sediment. There are, however, significant data gaps on the potential of maerl carbon sequestration which impede inclusion in blue carbon policy frameworks. Key data gaps include sediment thickness, from which carbon content is extrapolated. There are additional logistical and financial barriers associated with quantification methods that aim to address these data gaps. This study investigates the use of subbottom profiling (SBP) to lessen financial and logistical constraints of maerl bed sediment thickness estimation and regional blue carbon quantification. SBP data were cross validated with cores, other SBP data on blue carbon sediments, and analysed with expert input. Combining SBP data with estimates of habitat health (as % cover) from drop-down video (DDV) data, and regional abiotic data, this study also elucidates links between abiotic and biotic factors in determining maerl habitat health and maerl sediment thickness through pathway analysis in structural equation modelling (SEM). SBP data were proved to be sufficiently robust for identification of maerl sediments when corroborated with core data. SBP and DDV data of maerl bed habitats in Orkney exhibited some positive correlations of sediment thickness with maerl % cover. The average maerl bed sediment thickness was 1.08 m across all ranges of habitat health. SEM analysis revealed maerl bed habitat health was strongly determined by abiotic factors. Maerl habitat health had a separate positive effect on maerl bed sediment thickness.

Research paper thumbnail of Genetically modified organisms and aquaculture

The designations employed and the presentation of material in this information product do not imp... more The designations employed and the presentation of material in this information product do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations concerning the legal or development status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries All rights reserved. Reproduction and dissemination of material in this information product for educational or other non-commercial purposes are authorized without any prior written permission from the copyright holders provided the source is fully acknowledged. Reproduction of material in this information product for resale or other commercial purposes is prohibited without written permission of the copyright holders.

Research paper thumbnail of Revealing the Identity, History and Nature Conservation Status of Royal Navy Vessel Steam Pinnace 744, in Lyness, Scapa Flow, Orkney Isles

International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, Oct 24, 2023

Presence of a steam pinnace at Lyness, Orkney Islands, was first documented in United Kingdom Hyd... more Presence of a steam pinnace at Lyness, Orkney Islands, was first documented in United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) records by letter from a local scallop diver. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) tasked ORCA and Sula Diving Ltd to document this wreck during the Scapa Flow 2013 Marine Archaeology Survey. Side scan sonar and oral history provided initial clues to the identity. Reference to archival data and the Pinnace 199 renovation project (Portsmouth Historic Shipyard) enabled confirmation of its identity and understanding of how the vessel came to lie on the seabed off Rinnigal Pier. Photogrammetry revealed preservation status and during biological surveys two species of national conservation importance were recorded.

Research paper thumbnail of A standardized assessment of geographic variation in size at maturity of European lobster (Homarus gammarus L.) in the North East Atlantic

ICES Journal of Marine Science

Assessing size at maturity for European lobster Homarus gammarus across the North East Atlantic r... more Assessing size at maturity for European lobster Homarus gammarus across the North East Atlantic remains a fundamental knowledge gap for this commercially valuable fishery. This study for the first time collates existing data on physiological maturity of female European lobster H. gammarus across the North East Atlantic, including new data from Scotland, Wales, and the Isle of Man. Physiological estimates of size at maturity were undertaken using 1309 lobsters from 11 locations using a standardized methodology. Carapace length (CL) at which 50% of the sampled population had reached physiological maturity (CL50) varied between populations, ranging from 82 to 92.5 mm. CL50 estimates reported here are broadly similar for historic population samples in England, but estimates for Irish samples were lower than previous results. The development of a H. gammarus specific staging guide and methodology in this study enables the future comparison of potential fluctuations in female size at matu...

Research paper thumbnail of Hydrobiidae on North Uist

One of the problems of working on lochs that are slightly saline is a group of tiny (1-4mm) mollu... more One of the problems of working on lochs that are slightly saline is a group of tiny (1-4mm) molluscs called mudsnails (Hydrobiidae). The rarest of these, Hydrobia acuta neglecta, was first identified in the UK in the Uists. This project aimed to eliminate any doubt about the identity. Genetic analyses funded by SNH and conducted by scientists at the National Museum of Scotland and Heriot-Watt University confirmed that there were healthy populations of this snail in three lochs in North Uist.

Research paper thumbnail of Ecological performance differs between range centre and trailing edge populations of a cold-water kelp: implications for estimating net primary productivity

Marine Biology, 2020

Kelp forests are extensive, widely distributed and highly productive. However, despite their impo... more Kelp forests are extensive, widely distributed and highly productive. However, despite their importance, reliable estimates of net primary productivity (NPP) are currently unknown for most species and regions. In particular, how performance and subsequent NPP change throughout a species range is lacking. Here, we attempted to resolve this by examining growth and performance of the boreal kelp, Laminaria digitata, from range centre and trailing edge regions in the United Kingdom. During the peak growth season (March/April), range-centre individuals were up to three times heavier and accumulated biomass twice as fast as their trailing-edge counterparts. This was not apparent during the reduced growth season (August/September), when populations within both regions had similar biomass profiles. In total, annual NPP estimates were considerably lower for trailing-edge (181 ± 34 g C m−2 year−1) compared to range-centre (344 ± 33 g C m−2 year−1) populations. Our first-order UK estimates of ...

Research paper thumbnail of Towards Delineating Functions within the Fasciola Secreted Cathepsin L Protease Family by Integrating In Vivo Based Sub-Proteomics and Phylogenetics

PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, Jan 4, 2011

Background: Fasciola hepatica, along with Fasciola gigantica, is the causative agent of fasciolos... more Background: Fasciola hepatica, along with Fasciola gigantica, is the causative agent of fasciolosis, a foodborne zoonotic disease affecting grazing animals and humans worldwide. Pathology is directly related to the release of parasite proteins that facilitate establishment within the host. The dominant components of these excretory-secretory (ES) products are also the most promising vaccine candidates, the cathepsin L (Cat L) protease family. Methodology/Principal Findings: The sub-proteome of Cat L proteases from adult F. hepatica ES products derived from in vitro culture and in vivo from ovine host bile were compared by 2-DE. The individual Cat L proteases were identified by tandem mass spectrometry with the support of an in-house translated liver fluke EST database. The study reveals plasticity within the CL1 clade of Cat L proteases; highlighted by the identification of a novel isoform and CL1 sub-clade, resulting in a new Cat L phylogenetic analysis including representatives from other adult Cat L phylogenetic clades. Additionally, for the first time, mass spectrometry was shown to be sufficiently sensitive to reveal single amino acid polymorphisms in a resolved 2-DE protein spot derived from pooled population samples. Conclusions/Significance: We have investigated the sub-proteome at the population level of a vaccine target family using the Cat L proteases from F. hepatica as a case study. We have confirmed that F. hepatica exhibits more plasticity in the expression of the secreted CL1 clade of Cat L proteases at the protein level than previously realised. We recommend that superfamily based vaccine discovery programmes should screen parasite populations from different host populations and, if required, different host species via sub-proteomic assay in order to confirm the relative expression at the protein level prior to the vaccine development phase.

Research paper thumbnail of <i>Callinectes sapidus</i> Rathbun, 1896 (Brachyura: Portunidae): An assessment on its diet and foraging behaviour, Thermaikos Gulf, NW Aegean Sea, Greece: Evidence for ecological and economic impacts

The blue crab, Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896, is native to the Atlantic coasts of the America... more The blue crab, Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896, is native to the Atlantic coasts of the Americas and globally one of the most highly invasive marine species. In the present study, the species diet and the foraging behaviour was studied in the Thermaikos Gulf and Papapouli Lagoon for the first time. Surveys were undertaken using fyke nets, shore surveys, scuba and snorkelling. Additional data were compiled from systematic interviews with mussel farmers, shellfish traders and fishermen. In both Thermaikos Gulf and Papapouli Lagoon C. sapidus was found to prey on a wide variety of species including economically important molluscs, fishes, and crustaceans, indicating a substantial potential impact on fisheries and aquaculture in the region. Observation showed that over 6 (2009-2014) years, the blue crabs became dominant in Papapouli Lagoon at the expense of the native commercially fished crab Carcinus aestuarii Nardo, 1847 according to fisheries data. Potential management implications are discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of The establishment of site condition monitoring of the sea caves of the St Kilda and North Rona Special Areas of Conservation with supplementary data from Loch Eriboll

Scottish Natural Heritage eBooks, 2018

The report presents a study which initiated site condition monitoring of the sea caves within the... more The report presents a study which initiated site condition monitoring of the sea caves within the St Kilda and North Rona SACs. This was done to establish a baseline biological data set that would facilitate the assessment of the condition of the habitats in the future and to allow a judgement to be formed on the current condition of these habitats. A total of 85 potential cave sites have been identified within the SAC based on a combination of historical records and direct observation. All available information on caves has been collated into a cave inventory. Four caves were subject to SCM. One was fully intertidal, one was fully subtidal and the remaining two included both intertidal and subtidal components although monitoring effort was focussed on the subtidal in both cases.

Research paper thumbnail of Indicators of Good Environmental Status for biogenic reefs formed by Modiolus modiolus, Mytilus edulis and Sabellaria spinulosa

Research paper thumbnail of Are we there yet? Management baselines and biodiversity indicators for the protection and restoration of subtidal bivalve shellfish habitats

Science of The Total Environment, Mar 1, 2023

Research paper thumbnail of Connectivity and Dispersal Patterns of Protected Biogenic Reefs: Implications for the Conservation of Modiolus modiolus (L.) in the Irish Sea

PLOS ONE, Dec 1, 2015

Biogenic reefs created by Modiolus modiolus (Linnaeus, 1758) (horse mussel reefs) are marine habi... more Biogenic reefs created by Modiolus modiolus (Linnaeus, 1758) (horse mussel reefs) are marine habitats which support high levels of species biodiversity and provide valuable ecosystem services. Currently, M. modiolus reefs are listed as a threatened and/or declining species and habitat in all OSPAR regions and thus are highlighted as a conservation priority under the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). Determining patterns of larval dispersal and genetic connectivity of remaining horse mussel populations can inform management efforts and is a critical component of effective marine spatial planning (MSP). Larval dispersal patterns and genetic structure were determined for several M. modiolus bed populations in the Irish Sea including those in Wales (North Pen Llŷn), Isle of Man (Point of Ayre) and Northern Ireland (Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough). Simulations of larval dispersal suggested extant connectivity between populations within the Irish Sea. Results from the genetic analysis carried out using newly developed microsatellite DNA markers were consistent with those of the biophysical model. Results indicated moderately significant differentiation between the Northern Ireland populations and those in the Isle of Man and Wales. Simulations of larval dispersal over a 30 day pelagic larval duration (PLD) suggest that connectivity over a spatial scale of 150km is possible between some source and sink populations. However, it appears unlikely that larvae from Northern Ireland will connect directly with sites on the Llŷn or Isle of Man. It also appears unlikely that larvae from the Llŷn connect directly to any of the other sites. Taken together the data establishes a baseline for underpinning management and conservation of these important and threatened marine habitats in the southern part of the known range.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution and status of proposed protected features in the Fetlar to Haroldswick MPA proposal: Scottish Natural Heritage Commissioned Report No. 599

Against this background, SNH undertook benthic survey work within the Fetlar to Haroldswick MPA p... more Against this background, SNH undertook benthic survey work within the Fetlar to Haroldswick MPA proposal in September 2012, to determine the wider distribution and validate the continued presence, extent, and status of specified proposed protected features within the MPA proposal. Main findings  The proposed protected feature 'maerl beds' was observed at 10 stations (SS.SMp.Mrl.Pcal and SS.SMp.Mrl.Pcal.R).  The proposed protected feature 'kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediment' (SS.SMP.KSwSS) was recorded at 11 stations.  The proposed protected feature 'shallow tide-swept coarse sands with burrowing bivalves' (SS.SCS.ICS.MoeVen) was observed at 1 station.  The biotope complexes 'circalittoral coarse sediment' (SS.SCS.CCS) and 'infralittoral coarse sediment' (SS.SCS.ICS) which are part of the proposed protected feature 'circalittoral sand and coarse sediment communities' were observed at 33 stations (SS.SCS.CCS) and at 1 station (SS.SCS.ICS) (S75).  Ten of the SS.SCS.CCS stations were identified as the biotope 'Mediomastus fragilis, Lumbrineris spp. and venerid bivalves in circalittoral coarse sand or gravel' (SS.SCS.CCS.MedLumVen) by grab sampling, and appear to be representative of extensive areas around Fetlar.

Research paper thumbnail of Genetic Connectivity and Diversity of a Protected, Habitat-Forming Species: Evidence Demonstrating the Need for Wider Environmental Protection and Integration of the Marine Protected Area Network

Frontiers in Marine Science, Mar 3, 2022

Modiolus modiolus (horse mussel) reefs are an example of marine biodiversity hotspots of high con... more Modiolus modiolus (horse mussel) reefs are an example of marine biodiversity hotspots of high conservation importance. Due to historical destruction and slow rates of recovery, the habitat is considered threatened and/or declining under the OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the NorthEast Atlantic 1992, and therefore incorporated into the conservation legislation of several countries. An analysis of genetic connectivity and diversity of nine M. modiolus reefs across Scotland, both within and outside of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), was undertaken using 12 newly developed microsatellite markers. Analyses indicated moderate to high levels of genetic connectivity between all populations and significantly low genetic variance among populations. Generally, a lack of spatial genetic structure was determined though several populations were highlighted as potentially genetically separated. Structure and connectivity results were largely corroborated by network visualization which additionally identified several potentially key populations. All populations showed departure from Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) and positive inbreeding coefficients, suggesting reduced genetic diversity and/or reflecting the high frequency of null alleles observed across populations. However, allelic richness was uniformly high across all reefs compared to previously reported results for the habitat. Results broadly suggest that an open system of M. modiolus populations exists in Scottish waters and align with conclusions from prior larval dispersal modeling. Findings highlight that neither M. modiolus populations nor the MPAs where they are found should be considered discrete, independent entities and support the protection of features within MPAs in concert with non-designated areas and across varying spatial scales. It is proposed that potential for greater protection exists if all relevant Scottish MPAs, i.e.,

Research paper thumbnail of 2015 site condition monitoring of marine sedimentary and reef habitats in Loch Laxford SAC

Maerl infauna 4. DISCUSSION 4.1 Site Condition monitoring of the inlets and bays feature 4.1.1 Ex... more Maerl infauna 4. DISCUSSION 4.1 Site Condition monitoring of the inlets and bays feature 4.1.1 Extent 4.1.2 Diversity of component habitats 4.1.3 Distribution/spatial pattern of habitats 4.1.4 Water quality 4.1.5 Species composition of representative or notable biotopes 4.1.6 Presence or abundance of specified species 4.2 Site Condition monitoring of the reefs feature 4.2.1 Extent of entire feature 4.2.2 Biotope composition of the littoral rock and inshore sublittoral rock 4.2.3 Distribution/Spatial arrangement of biotopes 4.2.4 Species composition of representative or notable biotopes 4.3 Overall condition assessment 4.4 Recommendations 5. REFERENCES

Research paper thumbnail of A novel system for monitoring biofouling and testing antifouling and anticorrosion coatings in offshore renewable energy areas

Research paper thumbnail of Revealing the Identity, History and Nature Conservation Status of Royal Navy Vessel Steam Pinnace 744, in Lyness, Scapa Flow, Orkney Isles

International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, Oct 24, 2023

Presence of a steam pinnace at Lyness, Orkney Islands, was first documented in United Kingdom Hyd... more Presence of a steam pinnace at Lyness, Orkney Islands, was first documented in United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) records by letter from a local scallop diver. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) tasked ORCA and Sula Diving Ltd to document this wreck during the Scapa Flow 2013 Marine Archaeology Survey. Side scan sonar and oral history provided initial clues to the identity. Reference to archival data and the Pinnace 199 renovation project (Portsmouth Historic Shipyard) enabled confirmation of its identity and understanding of how the vessel came to lie on the seabed off Rinnigal Pier. Photogrammetry revealed preservation status and during biological surveys two species of national conservation importance were recorded.

Research paper thumbnail of Artificial reef design affects benthic secondary productivity and provision of functional habitat

Ecology and Evolution, Feb 1, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Bryozoan Metabolites: An Ecological Perspective

Research paper thumbnail of A checklist of marine bryozoan taxa in Scottish sea regions

Research paper thumbnail of Sounding out maerl sediment thickness: an integrated data approach

Scientific reports, Mar 3, 2024

Maerl beds are listed as a priority marine feature in Scotland. They are noted for creating suita... more Maerl beds are listed as a priority marine feature in Scotland. They are noted for creating suitable benthic habitat for diverse communities of fauna and flora and in supporting a wide array of ecosystem services. Within the context of climate change, they are also recognised as a potential blue carbon habitat through sequestration of carbon in living biomass and underlying sediment. There are, however, significant data gaps on the potential of maerl carbon sequestration which impede inclusion in blue carbon policy frameworks. Key data gaps include sediment thickness, from which carbon content is extrapolated. There are additional logistical and financial barriers associated with quantification methods that aim to address these data gaps. This study investigates the use of subbottom profiling (SBP) to lessen financial and logistical constraints of maerl bed sediment thickness estimation and regional blue carbon quantification. SBP data were cross validated with cores, other SBP data on blue carbon sediments, and analysed with expert input. Combining SBP data with estimates of habitat health (as % cover) from drop-down video (DDV) data, and regional abiotic data, this study also elucidates links between abiotic and biotic factors in determining maerl habitat health and maerl sediment thickness through pathway analysis in structural equation modelling (SEM). SBP data were proved to be sufficiently robust for identification of maerl sediments when corroborated with core data. SBP and DDV data of maerl bed habitats in Orkney exhibited some positive correlations of sediment thickness with maerl % cover. The average maerl bed sediment thickness was 1.08 m across all ranges of habitat health. SEM analysis revealed maerl bed habitat health was strongly determined by abiotic factors. Maerl habitat health had a separate positive effect on maerl bed sediment thickness.

Research paper thumbnail of Genetically modified organisms and aquaculture

The designations employed and the presentation of material in this information product do not imp... more The designations employed and the presentation of material in this information product do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations concerning the legal or development status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries All rights reserved. Reproduction and dissemination of material in this information product for educational or other non-commercial purposes are authorized without any prior written permission from the copyright holders provided the source is fully acknowledged. Reproduction of material in this information product for resale or other commercial purposes is prohibited without written permission of the copyright holders.

Research paper thumbnail of Revealing the Identity, History and Nature Conservation Status of Royal Navy Vessel Steam Pinnace 744, in Lyness, Scapa Flow, Orkney Isles

International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, Oct 24, 2023

Presence of a steam pinnace at Lyness, Orkney Islands, was first documented in United Kingdom Hyd... more Presence of a steam pinnace at Lyness, Orkney Islands, was first documented in United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) records by letter from a local scallop diver. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) tasked ORCA and Sula Diving Ltd to document this wreck during the Scapa Flow 2013 Marine Archaeology Survey. Side scan sonar and oral history provided initial clues to the identity. Reference to archival data and the Pinnace 199 renovation project (Portsmouth Historic Shipyard) enabled confirmation of its identity and understanding of how the vessel came to lie on the seabed off Rinnigal Pier. Photogrammetry revealed preservation status and during biological surveys two species of national conservation importance were recorded.

Research paper thumbnail of A standardized assessment of geographic variation in size at maturity of European lobster (Homarus gammarus L.) in the North East Atlantic

ICES Journal of Marine Science

Assessing size at maturity for European lobster Homarus gammarus across the North East Atlantic r... more Assessing size at maturity for European lobster Homarus gammarus across the North East Atlantic remains a fundamental knowledge gap for this commercially valuable fishery. This study for the first time collates existing data on physiological maturity of female European lobster H. gammarus across the North East Atlantic, including new data from Scotland, Wales, and the Isle of Man. Physiological estimates of size at maturity were undertaken using 1309 lobsters from 11 locations using a standardized methodology. Carapace length (CL) at which 50% of the sampled population had reached physiological maturity (CL50) varied between populations, ranging from 82 to 92.5 mm. CL50 estimates reported here are broadly similar for historic population samples in England, but estimates for Irish samples were lower than previous results. The development of a H. gammarus specific staging guide and methodology in this study enables the future comparison of potential fluctuations in female size at matu...

Research paper thumbnail of Hydrobiidae on North Uist

One of the problems of working on lochs that are slightly saline is a group of tiny (1-4mm) mollu... more One of the problems of working on lochs that are slightly saline is a group of tiny (1-4mm) molluscs called mudsnails (Hydrobiidae). The rarest of these, Hydrobia acuta neglecta, was first identified in the UK in the Uists. This project aimed to eliminate any doubt about the identity. Genetic analyses funded by SNH and conducted by scientists at the National Museum of Scotland and Heriot-Watt University confirmed that there were healthy populations of this snail in three lochs in North Uist.

Research paper thumbnail of Ecological performance differs between range centre and trailing edge populations of a cold-water kelp: implications for estimating net primary productivity

Marine Biology, 2020

Kelp forests are extensive, widely distributed and highly productive. However, despite their impo... more Kelp forests are extensive, widely distributed and highly productive. However, despite their importance, reliable estimates of net primary productivity (NPP) are currently unknown for most species and regions. In particular, how performance and subsequent NPP change throughout a species range is lacking. Here, we attempted to resolve this by examining growth and performance of the boreal kelp, Laminaria digitata, from range centre and trailing edge regions in the United Kingdom. During the peak growth season (March/April), range-centre individuals were up to three times heavier and accumulated biomass twice as fast as their trailing-edge counterparts. This was not apparent during the reduced growth season (August/September), when populations within both regions had similar biomass profiles. In total, annual NPP estimates were considerably lower for trailing-edge (181 ± 34 g C m−2 year−1) compared to range-centre (344 ± 33 g C m−2 year−1) populations. Our first-order UK estimates of ...

Research paper thumbnail of Towards Delineating Functions within the Fasciola Secreted Cathepsin L Protease Family by Integrating In Vivo Based Sub-Proteomics and Phylogenetics

PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, Jan 4, 2011

Background: Fasciola hepatica, along with Fasciola gigantica, is the causative agent of fasciolos... more Background: Fasciola hepatica, along with Fasciola gigantica, is the causative agent of fasciolosis, a foodborne zoonotic disease affecting grazing animals and humans worldwide. Pathology is directly related to the release of parasite proteins that facilitate establishment within the host. The dominant components of these excretory-secretory (ES) products are also the most promising vaccine candidates, the cathepsin L (Cat L) protease family. Methodology/Principal Findings: The sub-proteome of Cat L proteases from adult F. hepatica ES products derived from in vitro culture and in vivo from ovine host bile were compared by 2-DE. The individual Cat L proteases were identified by tandem mass spectrometry with the support of an in-house translated liver fluke EST database. The study reveals plasticity within the CL1 clade of Cat L proteases; highlighted by the identification of a novel isoform and CL1 sub-clade, resulting in a new Cat L phylogenetic analysis including representatives from other adult Cat L phylogenetic clades. Additionally, for the first time, mass spectrometry was shown to be sufficiently sensitive to reveal single amino acid polymorphisms in a resolved 2-DE protein spot derived from pooled population samples. Conclusions/Significance: We have investigated the sub-proteome at the population level of a vaccine target family using the Cat L proteases from F. hepatica as a case study. We have confirmed that F. hepatica exhibits more plasticity in the expression of the secreted CL1 clade of Cat L proteases at the protein level than previously realised. We recommend that superfamily based vaccine discovery programmes should screen parasite populations from different host populations and, if required, different host species via sub-proteomic assay in order to confirm the relative expression at the protein level prior to the vaccine development phase.

Research paper thumbnail of <i>Callinectes sapidus</i> Rathbun, 1896 (Brachyura: Portunidae): An assessment on its diet and foraging behaviour, Thermaikos Gulf, NW Aegean Sea, Greece: Evidence for ecological and economic impacts

The blue crab, Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896, is native to the Atlantic coasts of the America... more The blue crab, Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896, is native to the Atlantic coasts of the Americas and globally one of the most highly invasive marine species. In the present study, the species diet and the foraging behaviour was studied in the Thermaikos Gulf and Papapouli Lagoon for the first time. Surveys were undertaken using fyke nets, shore surveys, scuba and snorkelling. Additional data were compiled from systematic interviews with mussel farmers, shellfish traders and fishermen. In both Thermaikos Gulf and Papapouli Lagoon C. sapidus was found to prey on a wide variety of species including economically important molluscs, fishes, and crustaceans, indicating a substantial potential impact on fisheries and aquaculture in the region. Observation showed that over 6 (2009-2014) years, the blue crabs became dominant in Papapouli Lagoon at the expense of the native commercially fished crab Carcinus aestuarii Nardo, 1847 according to fisheries data. Potential management implications are discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of The establishment of site condition monitoring of the sea caves of the St Kilda and North Rona Special Areas of Conservation with supplementary data from Loch Eriboll

Scottish Natural Heritage eBooks, 2018

The report presents a study which initiated site condition monitoring of the sea caves within the... more The report presents a study which initiated site condition monitoring of the sea caves within the St Kilda and North Rona SACs. This was done to establish a baseline biological data set that would facilitate the assessment of the condition of the habitats in the future and to allow a judgement to be formed on the current condition of these habitats. A total of 85 potential cave sites have been identified within the SAC based on a combination of historical records and direct observation. All available information on caves has been collated into a cave inventory. Four caves were subject to SCM. One was fully intertidal, one was fully subtidal and the remaining two included both intertidal and subtidal components although monitoring effort was focussed on the subtidal in both cases.

Research paper thumbnail of Indicators of Good Environmental Status for biogenic reefs formed by Modiolus modiolus, Mytilus edulis and Sabellaria spinulosa

Research paper thumbnail of Are we there yet? Management baselines and biodiversity indicators for the protection and restoration of subtidal bivalve shellfish habitats

Science of The Total Environment, Mar 1, 2023

Research paper thumbnail of Connectivity and Dispersal Patterns of Protected Biogenic Reefs: Implications for the Conservation of Modiolus modiolus (L.) in the Irish Sea

PLOS ONE, Dec 1, 2015

Biogenic reefs created by Modiolus modiolus (Linnaeus, 1758) (horse mussel reefs) are marine habi... more Biogenic reefs created by Modiolus modiolus (Linnaeus, 1758) (horse mussel reefs) are marine habitats which support high levels of species biodiversity and provide valuable ecosystem services. Currently, M. modiolus reefs are listed as a threatened and/or declining species and habitat in all OSPAR regions and thus are highlighted as a conservation priority under the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). Determining patterns of larval dispersal and genetic connectivity of remaining horse mussel populations can inform management efforts and is a critical component of effective marine spatial planning (MSP). Larval dispersal patterns and genetic structure were determined for several M. modiolus bed populations in the Irish Sea including those in Wales (North Pen Llŷn), Isle of Man (Point of Ayre) and Northern Ireland (Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough). Simulations of larval dispersal suggested extant connectivity between populations within the Irish Sea. Results from the genetic analysis carried out using newly developed microsatellite DNA markers were consistent with those of the biophysical model. Results indicated moderately significant differentiation between the Northern Ireland populations and those in the Isle of Man and Wales. Simulations of larval dispersal over a 30 day pelagic larval duration (PLD) suggest that connectivity over a spatial scale of 150km is possible between some source and sink populations. However, it appears unlikely that larvae from Northern Ireland will connect directly with sites on the Llŷn or Isle of Man. It also appears unlikely that larvae from the Llŷn connect directly to any of the other sites. Taken together the data establishes a baseline for underpinning management and conservation of these important and threatened marine habitats in the southern part of the known range.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution and status of proposed protected features in the Fetlar to Haroldswick MPA proposal: Scottish Natural Heritage Commissioned Report No. 599

Against this background, SNH undertook benthic survey work within the Fetlar to Haroldswick MPA p... more Against this background, SNH undertook benthic survey work within the Fetlar to Haroldswick MPA proposal in September 2012, to determine the wider distribution and validate the continued presence, extent, and status of specified proposed protected features within the MPA proposal. Main findings  The proposed protected feature 'maerl beds' was observed at 10 stations (SS.SMp.Mrl.Pcal and SS.SMp.Mrl.Pcal.R).  The proposed protected feature 'kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediment' (SS.SMP.KSwSS) was recorded at 11 stations.  The proposed protected feature 'shallow tide-swept coarse sands with burrowing bivalves' (SS.SCS.ICS.MoeVen) was observed at 1 station.  The biotope complexes 'circalittoral coarse sediment' (SS.SCS.CCS) and 'infralittoral coarse sediment' (SS.SCS.ICS) which are part of the proposed protected feature 'circalittoral sand and coarse sediment communities' were observed at 33 stations (SS.SCS.CCS) and at 1 station (SS.SCS.ICS) (S75).  Ten of the SS.SCS.CCS stations were identified as the biotope 'Mediomastus fragilis, Lumbrineris spp. and venerid bivalves in circalittoral coarse sand or gravel' (SS.SCS.CCS.MedLumVen) by grab sampling, and appear to be representative of extensive areas around Fetlar.

Research paper thumbnail of Genetic Connectivity and Diversity of a Protected, Habitat-Forming Species: Evidence Demonstrating the Need for Wider Environmental Protection and Integration of the Marine Protected Area Network

Frontiers in Marine Science, Mar 3, 2022

Modiolus modiolus (horse mussel) reefs are an example of marine biodiversity hotspots of high con... more Modiolus modiolus (horse mussel) reefs are an example of marine biodiversity hotspots of high conservation importance. Due to historical destruction and slow rates of recovery, the habitat is considered threatened and/or declining under the OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the NorthEast Atlantic 1992, and therefore incorporated into the conservation legislation of several countries. An analysis of genetic connectivity and diversity of nine M. modiolus reefs across Scotland, both within and outside of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), was undertaken using 12 newly developed microsatellite markers. Analyses indicated moderate to high levels of genetic connectivity between all populations and significantly low genetic variance among populations. Generally, a lack of spatial genetic structure was determined though several populations were highlighted as potentially genetically separated. Structure and connectivity results were largely corroborated by network visualization which additionally identified several potentially key populations. All populations showed departure from Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) and positive inbreeding coefficients, suggesting reduced genetic diversity and/or reflecting the high frequency of null alleles observed across populations. However, allelic richness was uniformly high across all reefs compared to previously reported results for the habitat. Results broadly suggest that an open system of M. modiolus populations exists in Scottish waters and align with conclusions from prior larval dispersal modeling. Findings highlight that neither M. modiolus populations nor the MPAs where they are found should be considered discrete, independent entities and support the protection of features within MPAs in concert with non-designated areas and across varying spatial scales. It is proposed that potential for greater protection exists if all relevant Scottish MPAs, i.e.,

Research paper thumbnail of 2015 site condition monitoring of marine sedimentary and reef habitats in Loch Laxford SAC

Maerl infauna 4. DISCUSSION 4.1 Site Condition monitoring of the inlets and bays feature 4.1.1 Ex... more Maerl infauna 4. DISCUSSION 4.1 Site Condition monitoring of the inlets and bays feature 4.1.1 Extent 4.1.2 Diversity of component habitats 4.1.3 Distribution/spatial pattern of habitats 4.1.4 Water quality 4.1.5 Species composition of representative or notable biotopes 4.1.6 Presence or abundance of specified species 4.2 Site Condition monitoring of the reefs feature 4.2.1 Extent of entire feature 4.2.2 Biotope composition of the littoral rock and inshore sublittoral rock 4.2.3 Distribution/Spatial arrangement of biotopes 4.2.4 Species composition of representative or notable biotopes 4.3 Overall condition assessment 4.4 Recommendations 5. REFERENCES

Research paper thumbnail of A novel system for monitoring biofouling and testing antifouling and anticorrosion coatings in offshore renewable energy areas