SEMINAR: MBF602 Sean Bignami Friday 1-21-11, 1 pm S/A 103

["Sean Bignami" <sbignami@rsmas.miami.edu>]

Ocean acidification and larval fish: preliminary investigations of the
impact on growth and flexion

Anthropogenic carbon dioxide is increasing at an unprecedented rate,
diffusing into the oceans and causing measurable decline in the pH of
surface waters. This process of ocean acidification has been shown to
negatively impact many organisms, although most research has focused on
calcifying invertebrates, with a limited number of studies involving
fishes. My research is designed to determine whether future predicted
levels of ocean acidification could impact the growth, development, and
behavior of larval fishes. Established aquaculture techniques and methods
of seawater chemistry alteration have been adapted to produce an
experimental setup that allows for replicated application of ocean
acidification treatments to larval fishes under a semi-intensive
aquaculture scenario. During initial trials using Rachycentron canadum
(Rachycentridae), or cobia, there was difficulty attaining proper levels
of acidification, often resulting in lower pH than desired. However,
results from these ?extreme? treatments show a significant decrease in
size-at-age and a delay in flexion during the early development of larval
cobia. In a subsequent trial, protocols were modified to attain more
accurate treatment conditions, but no significant results were detected.
This second trial was greatly affected by a loss of larval food supply at
an early date, resulting in high, likely size-selective, mortality.
Preliminary behavioral studies were also performed, although data have not
yet been analyzed. Future trials will incorporate improved treatment
application and include additional tests of the effects of ocean
acidification on larval growth, development, and behavior.

Sean Bignami

Marine Biology and Fisheries
Entered PhD Program: 2008
Advisors: Su Sponaugle & Robert Cowen



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