Search Results (255)

Despite the oligotrophic conditions of the southeastern Levantine Sea and northern Red Sea, six lobster species—five slipper lobsters (Scyllaridae) and one spiny lobster (Palinuridae)—maintain permanent, reproducing populations in the study area. Additionally, there are isolated records of four other sporadic lobster species. In the southeastern Mediterranean, permanent species include the Mediterranean slipper lobster,Scyllarides latus, small European locust lobster, Scyllarus arctus, and pygmy locust lobster, Scyllarus pygmaeus. In the northern Red Sea, they include the clamkiller slipper lobster, Scyllarides tridacnophaga, Lewinsohn locust slipper lobster, Eduarctus lewinsohni, and pronghorn spiny lobster, Panulirus penicillatus. This review synthesizes current knowledge of their biology and ecology, including distribution, habitat, reproduction and development, feeding, predators and anti-predatory adaptations, behavior, sensory modalities, environmental impacts, threats, and conservation. Recent advances focus mainly on larger, commercially valuable species (S. latus, S. tridacnophaga, P. penicillatus), while major gaps remain for oceanic post-embryonic stages and the nektonic nisto postlarva, as well as for smaller, often cryptic species (S. arctus, S. pygmaeus, E. lewinsohni). Addressing these gaps will require targeted research, using modern methodologies, in coastal, deep, and open waters, coupled with citizen-science surveys. While many Indo-Pacific decapods have been established in the Mediterranean, no immigrant lobster species have successfully colonized Levant waters, despite rare records of three non-indigenous species (NIS). However potential NIS predators and shifts in mollusk compositions, the main prey of some native lobsters, may affect the latter. Large lobsters remain targeted by fisheries despite protective regulations, which are not always effective or obeyed. No-take marine protected areas (MPAs) or nature reserves can be effective if sufficiently large and well-managed. Habitat loss from marine construction can be partly compensated by stable, environmentally safe artificial reefs tailored to lobster behavioral ecology. The categories of the studied lobsters’ species in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, last updated over fifteen years ago, should be re-evaluated. Full article

Biofouling is the colonization and attachment of sessile organisms on submerged surfaces, whether natural or artificial. The presence of these communities compromises the structural integrity, operational efficiency, and durability of coastal structures, resulting in high economic and environmental costs, especially when conventional removal methods involve the use of toxic biocides. In this context, this article aimed to evaluate the scientific productivity of the literature related to sustainable antifouling strategies, with an emphasis on technologically and environmentally sustainable solutions, through a bibliometric analysis. We analyzed 160 research articles and 90 patents published between 2004 and 2024. It was observed that, since 2019, there has been an increase in publications about biofouling solutions, with a notable emphasis on China’s leadership in both scientific production and patent filings. This topic has also attracted extensive international collaboration. The most promising strategies for controlling marine biofouling involve a combination of physical, chemical, and biological methods, integrated with sustainable coatings. The growing demand for low-environmental-impact solutions has driven the development of safer, more effective, and economically viable antifouling technologies. Therefore, the integration of traditional techniques with advances in biotechnology represents a strategic path to mitigating the impacts of biofouling in marine environments. Full article

Colaconema daviesii has been described as an epi-endophyte of red algae. However, it has also been observed in vitro to colonize thalli of Macrocystis pyrifera, a giant kelp classified as a foundational organism of coastal marine ecosystems. This study aimed to determine, through co-cultivations, how C. daviesii affects the early stages of M. pyrifera, specifically gametophyte and sporophyte development. Determined were growth, oogonia formation, and gametophyte fertility, as well as sporophyte growth rate and survival. The results showed that the presence of C. daviesii negatively altered oogonia production and gametophyte fertility. Moreover, the survival of young sporophytes in co-cultures decreased. These findings demonstrate that the early developmental stages of M. pyrifera could be susceptible to infestation by a filamentous red alga, with negative consequences on fitness. Full article

Coastal waters are sensitive habitats that support high biodiversity and provide essential ecosystem goods. Changes in sedimentation regimes due to land-use and engineering activities in the coastal zone affect biodiversity and these habitats’ ecological value. This study aims to characterize the meiobenthic communities inhabiting the Zwin tidal lagoon, located on the border between Belgium and the Netherlands, and to evaluate to what extent the sedimentological characteristics and the quantity and composition of organic matter influence the composition and distribution of meiofauna. The meiobenthic community showed traits of a well-established population dominated by nematodes, followed by copepods + nauplii. Notably, meiofauna rapidly colonized the area after its opening to the sea in February 2019 (two years before sampling), showing that even very weak tidal currents were sufficient to suspend and transport these animals to the new environment. Our results suggest that the Zwin lagoon is a productive system with high food quality (i.e., PRT/CHO ≥ 1), predominantly of marine origin. Major structural differences in communities were related to the sedimentary environments at the investigated stations and estimations of the quantity of food. The present findings confirm that sedimentary dynamics and depositional processes, through their influence on sediment properties (e.g., grain size) and organic matter’s quantity and composition, shape meiofaunal communities and their vertical and horizontal distributions. Full article

This study presents an in situ and laboratory evaluation of an innovative biocide-free nanocomposite coating designed to provide dual anti-corrosion and anti-fouling protection for EH36 naval steel in marine environments. The coating, comprising polyaniline nanorods, titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and Fe₃O₄-functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes embedded in a robust resin matrix, was systematically assessed through electrochemical, microscopic, and field-based methods. Laboratory immersion tests and extended exposures at two Mediterranean sea sites (Thessaloniki and Heraklion) revealed substantial improvements in corrosion resistance and significant suppression of marine biofouling over periods of up to 24 months. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated that coated specimens maintained a corrosion inhibition efficiency exceeding 93% throughout the study, exhibiting markedly lower corrosion current densities and higher charge transfer resistances than uncoated controls. Impedance spectroscopy and equivalent circuit modeling confirmed sustained barrier properties, while digital imaging and qualitative biological assessments showed reduced colonization by both micro- and macrofouling organisms. Comparative analysis with conventional biocidal and alternative eco-friendly coatings underscored the superior durability, environmental compatibility, and anti-fouling efficacy of the developed system. The results highlight the coating’s promise as a sustainable, high-performance solution for long-term protection of naval steels against the combined challenges of corrosion and biofouling in harsh marine settings. Full article

This study investigated the effects of dietary Rhodotorula mucilaginosa supplementation with different concentrations (0.0 g/kg, 0.1 g/kg, 1.0 g/kg, 10.0 g/kg) on red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus). Four groups were established: control group (CK, 0.0 g/kg), low-dose group (HL, 0.1 g/kg), medium-dose group (HM, 1.0 g/kg), and high-dose group (HH, 10.0 g/kg). The feeding trial lasted for 56 days. The results showed that, compared with the control group, all supplementation groups exhibited significantly reduced feed conversion ratios (p < 0.05). The HM and HH groups demonstrated significant increases in body length growth rate, specific growth rate, weight gain rate, hepatosomatic index, and survival rate (p < 0.05). All supplemented groups showed significantly enhanced trypsin and lipase activities in intestines and trypsin activity in the hepatopancreas (p < 0.05). The HM and HH groups exhibited elevated α-amylase activity in the hepatopancreas (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, marine red yeast supplementation reduced colonization of potential pathogens while increasing probiotic abundance, effectively improving intestinal microbiota structure. The HM group significantly improved intestinal villus length, width, and muscular thickness (p < 0.05). All supplemented groups showed considerable upregulation of hepatopancreatic genes related to immunity (heat shock protein 70, down syndrome cell adhesion molecule, crustacean antibacterial peptide, serine proteinase inhibitors, crustacean hyperglycemic hormone, anti-lipopolysaccharide factor, lysozyme, and alkaline phosphatase) and antioxidant defense (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and catalase) (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that R. mucilaginosa can significantly enhance digestive enzyme activity, maintain intestinal health, improve antioxidant and immune-related gene expression, and promote growth performance in red claw crayfish, with the HM group (1.0 g/kg R. mucilaginosa) showing optimal promotion effects. Full article

The highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 2.3.4.4b clade virus has caused widespread outbreaks across South America, primarily affecting seabirds, poultry, and marine mammals. The virus likely reached the continent through migratory birds from North America, initially spreading along the Pacific coast before advancing into Atlantic-bordering countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil. This study investigated the dynamics of H5N1 strains in Uruguay during outbreaks from February and October 2023. We analyzed an updated South American database, including a newly sequenced viral genome from a royal tern (Thalasseus maximus) collected at the end of the outbreaks. Phylogeographic reconstruction revealed two distinct South American phylogroups comprising Uruguayan strains: one mainly driven by wild birds and poultry, with the royal tern strain clustering with Brazilian isolates, and another primarily associated with marine mammals, displaying adaptive residues in the PB2 protein. In Uruguay, these phylogroups delineate two main transmission routes: (i) an avian-derived pathway originating in Argentina and (ii) a pinniped-derived route from Chile. Brazil, initially colonized via the Argentine route, later emerged as a secondary source for Uruguay. This host-pathway interplay underscores the virus’s cross-species potential and highlights the need for coordinated regional surveillance within a One Health framework to mitigate zoonotic risks. Full article

Tropical sandy beaches are dynamic ecosystems where microbial communities play crucial roles in biogeochemical processes and tracking human impact. Despite their importance, these habitats remain underexplored. Here, using amplicon-based sequencing of bacterial (V3-V4 16S rRNA) and fungal (ITS2) markers, we first describe microbial communities inhabiting supralittoral–intertidal sediments of two contrasting sandy beaches in the Tadjoura Gulf (Djibouti Republic): Sagallou-Kalaf (SK, rural, siliceous sand) and Siesta Plage (SP, urban, calcareous sand). Sand samples were collected at low tide along 10 m transects perpendicular to the shoreline. Bacterial communities differed significantly between sites and along the sea-to-land gradient, suggesting an influence from both anthropogenic activity and sediment granulometry. SK was dominated by Escherichia-Shigella, Staphylococcus, and Bifidobacterium, associated with human and agricultural sources. SP showed higher richness, with enriched marine-associated genera such as Hoeflea, Xanthomarina, and Marinobacter, also linked to hydrocarbon degradation. Fungal diversity was less variable, but showed significant shifts along transects. SK communities were dominated by Kluyveromyces and Candida, while SP hosted a broader fungal assemblage, including Pichia, Rhodotorula, and Aureobasidium. The higher richness at SP suggests that calcium-rich sands, possibly due to their buffering capacity and greater moisture retention, offer more favorable conditions for microbial colonization. Full article

Recent archaeological discoveries across the Aegean, Cyprus, and western Anatolia have renewed interest in pre-Neolithic seafaring and early island colonization. However, the environmental contexts that support such early coastal occupations remain poorly understood, largely due to the submergence of Pleistocene shorelines following post-glacial sea-level rise. This study addresses this gap through an integrated geoarchaeological investigation of the pre-Neolithic site of Ouriakos on Lemnos Island, northeastern Aegean (Greece), dated to the mid-11th millennium BCE. By reconstructing both the terrestrial and submerged paleolandscapes of the site, we examine ecological conditions, resource availability, and sedimentary processes that shaped human activity and site preservation. Employing a multiscale methodological approach—combining bathymetric survey, geomorphological mapping, soil micromorphology, geochemical analysis, and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating—we present a comprehensive framework for identifying and interpreting early coastal settlements. Stratigraphic evidence reveals phases of fluvial, aeolian, and colluvial deposition associated with an alternating coastline. The core findings reveal that Ouriakos was established during a phase of environmental stability marked by paleosol development, indicating sustained human presence. By bridging terrestrial and marine data, this research contributes significantly to the understanding of human coastal mobility during the Pleistocene–Holocene transition. Full article

Microplastic particles (MPs) are an emerging global pollutant of increasing concern due to their widespread occurrence, persistence, and multifaceted impact on aquatic ecosystems. This study provides a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature from 2011 to 2025, analysing the presence, distribution, and microbiological associations of MPs in surface waters across five continents. The findings confirm that MPs are present in both marine and freshwater systems, with concentrations varying by region, hydrology, and proximity to anthropogenic sources. Polyethylene and polypropylene were identified as the most common polymers, often enriched in river mouths, estuaries, and aquaculture zones. A key focus of this review is the plastisphere—microbial biofilms colonizing MPs—which includes both environmental and pathogenic bacteria such as Vibrio, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. Notably, MPs serve as vectors for the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), including sul1, tetA and ermF, and β-lactamase genes like blaCTX-M. This highlights their role in enhancing horizontal gene transfer and microbial dissemination. The results emphasize the need for standardized monitoring protocols and further interdisciplinary research. In light of the One Health approach, understanding the microbial dimension of MP pollution is essential for managing risks to environmental and public health. Full article

The colonization of Legionella spp. in engineered water systems constitutes a major public health threat. In this study, a six-year environmental surveillance (2020–2025) of Legionella colonization in five different types of facilities in Crete, Greece is presented, including hotels, passenger ships, primary healthcare facilities, public hospitals, and private clinics. A total of 1081 water samples were collected and analyzed, and the overall positivity was calculated using culture-based methods. Only 16.46% of the samples exceeded the regulatory limit (>10³ CFU/L) in the total sample, with 44.59% overall Legionella positivity. Colonization by facility category showed the highest rates in primary healthcare facilities with 85.96%, followed by public hospitals (46.36%), passenger ships with 36.93%, hotels with 38.08%, and finally private clinics (21.42%). The association of environmental risk factors with Legionella positivity revealed a strong effect at hot water temperatures < 50 °C (RR = 2.05) and free chlorine residuals < 0.2 mg/L (RR = 2.22) (p < 0.0001). Serotyping analysis revealed the overall dominance of Serogroups 2–15 of L. pneumophila; nevertheless, Serogroup 1 was particularly prevalent in hospitals, passenger ships, and hotels. Based on these findings, the requirement for continuous environmental monitoring and risk management plans with preventive thermochemical controls tailored to each facility is highlighted. Finally, operational disruptions, such as those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in primary care facilities and marine systems, require special attention. Full article

Tetracyclic bis-piperidine alkaloids (TcBPAs) are structurally complex natural products primarily isolated from marine sponges of the order Haplosclerida. Distinguished by their intricate architecture, TcBPAs feature two central piperidine units linked by dual macrocyclic rings. These unique structural motifs contribute significantly to their biological activities. For example, TcBPAs exhibit antiproliferative activities at low micromolar concentrations across various cancer cell lines, including leukemia, melanoma, breast, colon, fibrosarcoma, and glioblastoma. Despite this promising therapeutic profile, the structural intricacy of TcBPAs has posed considerable challenges to the development of efficient synthetic methodologies, thereby limiting comprehensive exploration and potential clinical advancement. This review highlights recent progress and persisting challenges in the synthesis, structural analysis, and biological evaluation of TcBPAs, underscoring their therapeutic potential in anticancer drug discovery. Full article

Infectious wounds pose formidable clinical challenges due to hypoxia, exacerbated inflammation, and persistent microbial colonization. To address this, we developed a bioinspired multifunctional hydrogel (PTDPs) through the in situ freeze-thaw co-assembly of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), tea polyphenols (TP), polydopamine (PDA), and marine-derived self-assembling peptides (AAPs). The resultant PTDP hydrogel formed an intricate hydrogen-bonded network that enhanced mechanical robustness and substrate adhesion. TP and PDA synergistically confer potent antioxidant properties: TP scavenges radicals via phenolic hydroxyl groups while PDA enhances responsiveness to diverse radicals in hypoxic environments. Integrated with AAPs’ pro-regenerative functions and PDA’s broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy, this system generates therapeutic synergy. Characterization revealed outstanding physicochemical properties including tunable plasticity, high swelling ratios, and sustained hydration retention. In vitro studies demonstrated potent antioxidant activity, efficient inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli proliferation, and cytocompatibility facilitating endothelial cell migration/proliferation. In murine full-thickness infected wound models, the PTDP hydrogel significantly accelerated wound closure, enhanced neovascularization, and improved collagen deposition, underscoring its potential as an innovative therapeutic platform for infected and chronic wounds with strong translational prospects. Full article

This paper presents field experiments of mineral deposition on steel, induced by cathodic polarization in natural seawater, as a sustainable strategy for the life extension of marine steel structures. Although this approach is quite well known, the ability of the mineral deposit to both protect steel from corrosion in the absence of a cathodic current, thus operating as an inorganic coating, and provide an effective substrate for colonization by microorganisms still needs to be fully explained. To this end, two identical steel structure prototypes were installed at a depth of 20 m: one was submitted to cathodic polarization, while the other was left under free corrosion for comparison. After 6 months, the current supplied to the electrified structure was interrupted. A multidisciplinary approach was used to analyze the deposits on steel round bars installed in the prototypes over time, in the presence and in the absence of a cathodic current. Different investigation techniques were employed to provide the following information on the deposit: the composition in terms of elements, compounds and macro-biofouling; the morphology; the thickness and the degree of protection estimated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results showed that under cathodic polarization, the thickness of the deposit increased to 2.5 mm and then remained almost constant after the current was interrupted. Conversely, the surface impedance decreased from 3 kΩ cm² to about 1.5 kΩ cm² at the same time, and the aragonite–brucite ratio also decreased. This indicates a deterioration in the protection performance and soundness of the deposit, respectively. Considering the trends in thickness and impedance together, it can be concluded that the preformed mineral deposit does not undergo generalized deterioration after current interruption, which would result in a reduction in thickness, but rather localized degradation. This phenomenon was attributed to the burrowing action of marine organisms, which created porosities and/or capillary pathways through the deposit. Therefore, the corrosion protection offered by the mineral deposit without a cathodic current is insufficient because it loses its protective properties. However, the necessary current can be quite limited in the presence of the deposit, which in any case provides a suitable substrate for sustaining the colonization and growth of sessile marine organisms, thus promoting biodiversity. Full article

The Palma Cathedral, a landmark of Mediterranean Gothic architecture, features some of the most structurally daring slender piers in European ecclesiastical design. This study examines the role of marés stone—a local marine calcarenite—in enabling such architectural feats despite its inherent fragility. A multi-technique, non-invasive diagnostic campaign was conducted, including visual inspection, portable microscopy, and infrared thermography, to evaluate the physical condition and behavior of the stone under structural and environmental stress. The results reveal widespread deterioration processes—granular disintegration, alveolization, biological colonization, and structural cracking—exacerbated by the stone’s high porosity and exposure to marine aerosols and thermal fluctuations. Thermographic analysis highlighted moisture retention zones and hidden material discontinuities, while crack monitoring confirmed long-standing, localized structural strain. These findings demonstrate that the Cathedral’s formal audacity was grounded in a refined empirical understanding of marés’ properties. The study underscores the importance of material-based diagnostics for the sustainable conservation of Gothic heritage architecture. Full article