2025_proceedings: Are soundscape metrics good indicators of ecosystem dynamics related to an unusual dinoflagellate bloom in the Gulf of Maine?
- Session: 08. Bioacoustics and Soundscape
Organised by: Jennifer Miksis-Olds, Giacomo Giorli
- Lecture: Are soundscape metrics good indicators of ecosystem dynamics related to an unusual dinoflagellate bloom in the Gulf of Maine?
Paper ID: 2163
Author(s): Jennifer L. Miksis-Olds, Sujay Balebail
Presenter: Jennifer Miksis-Olds
Abstract: Gulf of Maine seasonal phytoplankton blooms are typically dominated by diatoms that fuel a productive ecosystem comprised of a variety of animal groups from benthic invertebrates to large whales. In April-September 2023, an unusually strong dinoflagellate Tripos Muelleri bloom persisted in nearshore and offshore waters with cell counts that exceeded normal baselines by a factor of 10-50, and maximum cell counts exceeding 100,000 cells/liter. The bloom extended to depths of 30-40 m and regionally impacted carbon dioxide drawdowns resulting in the lowest surface water CO2 levels and highest pH levels observed in over 20 years. Tripos muelleri does not produce a harmful toxin and naturally occurs in the Gulf of Maine, but high biomass blooms like this one have the potential to cause low oxygen conditions when they decay leading to negative ecosystem impacts. Dense phytoplankton blooms that sink to the seafloor are consumed by bacteria that can create hypoxic conditions affecting fish, shellfish, lobster, and higher trophic level predators. This work assessed the potential of passive acoustic soundscape metrics as indicators of change in ecosystem dynamics in association with the unusual dinoflagellate bloom. Metrics of sound level, impulsiveness, and uniformity were explored in conjunction with temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, carbon dioxide, and volume backscatter. Results are interpreted in relation to the broader impacts on ecosystem function, grazers, and marine mammals.
- Corresponding author: Dr Jennifer Miksis-Olds
Affiliation: University of New Hampshire
Country: United States
