SEAW ORDS TheMarineOption Program Newsletter
July 2021
Volume XXXVI, Number 7
Aloha, and welcome to the July issue of Seawords! This issue, we're looking at novel ways scientists are investigating to combat climate change and protect the world's oceans, from legal avenues (page 14-18) to nature-integrated solutions (page 4-8). The problems facing marine ecosystems are incredibly complicated, and as such, require multifaceted fixes best suited to protecting each environment. The fight to turn the tide of climate change will require concentrated effort on every level. W hat would you like to see more of in Seawords?Send in your thoughts, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @mopseawords!
Zada Boyce-Quentin, SeawordsEditor, & Matilda Phillips, Associate Editor
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Contents 2: LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 4: EELGRASS: CRACKING DOW N ON OCEAN ACIDIFICATION 8: ROCKING CLIMATE CHANGE 10: CREATURE OF THE MONTH 14: NEW HAW AIIAN OCEAN LAW S 18: HIGHLY PROTECTED MARINE AREAS
Photo Credits Fr ont Page: Slate pencil urchin. By: Josh More, Flickr. Tabl e of Contents: School of fish. By: Carrie Kellenberger, Flickr. Back Cover : Seahorse. By: Marga, Flickr.
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Eelgrass: Cracking Down on Ocean Acidification Smithsonian National Zoo: "Washed Ashore Art to Save the Sea," Adam Mason, Flickr.
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By: Chloe Molou, UHH SeawordsLiaison
Reef exhibit. By: Smithsonian Institute, Flickr.
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Coral Reef. By: Kathy Krucker, Flickr.
On W orld Oceans Day 2021, Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva (D-Arizona) introduced a bill which addressess threats posed to people and wildlife by climate change. The Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act includes actions to protect coastal ecosystems that store carbon emissions like eelgrass beds. Eelgrass, a member of the seagrass family, is a flowering plant that grows underwater in bays, estuaries, and beaches. Eelgrass beds grow along the West Coast from Alaska to California, and on the East Coast from Newfoundland to the Carolinas. These beds provide habitats, nurseries, and feeding grounds to a wide variety of sea life, including sea turtles, leopard sharks, marine mammals, and sea birds. Healthy eelgrass beds can also filter the water, protect coastlines during storms, and hold moisture during low tide which can protect immobile sea life from desiccation. Coastal habitats like eelgrass beds, mangroves, and marshes play a big role in removing carbon from the atmosphere. The ocean takes up about quarter of the carbon in the atmosphere, similar to the amount taken up by land. These coastal habitats, also known as ?blue carbon?, uptake carbon at a rate three times greater than terrestrial habitats like forests; the carbon is stored in their sediments for very long periods of time, but all is released if these ?blue carbon?habitats are ever destroyed. This uptake of carbon can directly influence the pH levels surrounding eelgrass beds, or other blue carbon habitats. Ocean acidification is a direct result of climate change and increased carbon emissions: more atmospheric carbon leads to more dissolved carbon in the oceans, and ultimately lower pH. 6 | Seawords
An extensive study of seagrass meadows was published in March of this year in Global Change Biology highlighting their ability to buffer ocean acidification. The six-year study was conducted through the University of California, Davis, in seven seagrass meadows stretching from Northern to Southern California. Sensors were deployed between 2014 and 2019 and were placed in meadows from pristine reserves to busy ports and marinas. The data collected showed that these meadows could increase pH (lower acidity) for extended periods of time, with some buffering lasting longer than 24 hours, and some continuing on for weeks. The buffering occurred about 65%of the time but eelgrass response differed throughout the locations, with some beds taking up carbon more efficiently than others. The time of year also affected buffering as eelgrass beds are more productive during spring and increase their uptake of carbon. About 30%of the world?s seagrass has disappeared since the 1870s, but these meadows can be protected and restored. Eelgrass restoration projects in Puget Sound and Chesapeake Bay are great examples of restored and stabilized eelgrass beds. The seagrass study highlighted the importance of restoring and protecting these meadows in order to reduce carbon pollution, and the promising results of these restoration projects are showing that it can be done.
Oceans in Transformation. By: John Palmesino & Ann-Sofi Ronnskog, Flickr. JULY 2021
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Climate change. By: Riccardo Maria Mantero, Flickr.
Rocking Climate Change By: Alexandrya Robinson, UHM MOP Student One of the biggest threats to this and future generations is climate change. If there is not a major change in how humans conduct their day-to-day lives, we risk incurring a new mass extinction by the end of this century as species extinction rates skyrocket due to increasing environmental stressors. Currently, notable consequences of climate change around the world include warmer oceans, more extreme storms, more frequent droughts, more acidic ocean waters, higher ocean levels, as well as melting of glaciers and ice caps. These threaten every ecosystem and living thing on the planet. Scientists at the Institute for Carbon Management at the University of California are researching how to mitigate these consequences. Currently the research team has created a functional prototype for a machine that utilizes electrolysis much like a desalination machine. The machine treats water, but rather than removing salt and other minerals, the compounds precipitate into solids. Calcium and magnesium are highly abundant in ocean waters, and when reacting with carbon dioxide, either calcite or magnesite form. It is more efficient to pull carbon dioxide out of seawater than air because the ocean is the largest carbon sink on Earth. The intended goal of this project is to remove excess carbon dioxide from the ocean and turn it into solid rock. Currently the prototype is still in the testing phase as scientists analyze the costs and benefits of this process. One drawback to the process is that it creates a large output of calcite or magnesite, as well as other byproduct solids. According to one of the researchers, Mr. Gaurav Sant, ?removing 10 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide from the ocean, for instance, 8 | Seawords
would yield 20 gigatonnes of carbonates? at a minimum.?One proposed way to deal with these solids is mixing them to create a carbon neutral concrete, although the question posed by this is if this solution will be enough to deal with these solids because if they are placed back into the ocean, it could upset local ecosystems. Solids are not the only byproduct. Hydrogen gas is also produced as carbon dioxide is extracted from the water. ?? 45 kg of low-pressure H2(g) would be generated for every tonne of CO2 mineralized.?However, this byproduct could be a benefit because of the cost-efficient energy that it provides. ?Such green hydrogen is expected to offer a commercial value on the order of $3/ kg, such that a cost offset on the order of $135 could be realized per tonne of CO2 mineralized.? At the Planetary Hydrogen facility in Ottowa, similar technology is being explored, using hydroxide rather than electricity to cause the precipitate reaction which removes carbon dioxide. The company refers to the precipitate as ?oceanic antiacid?since the product is basic and is described as a baking soda-type compound. Planetary Hydrogen?s approach is a sped up natural geological process which under normal circumstances would take around 100,000 years. Both methodologies are promising for possible climate mitigation solutions. More testing and implementation of possible solutions to the byproduct volume process is necessary, but there is hope for the future. Sequestering carbon dioxide before we cross a threshold from which we cannot return from is important for the survival of not only humanity but biodiversity as a whole. Calcium deposits. By: VideoVik, Flickr.
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Slate pencil urchin. By: Patrick Randall, Flickr.
Creature of the Month: Slate Pencil Urchin By: Caitlin Tsuchiya, UHH MOP Student JULY 2021
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The slate pencil urchin (Heterocentrotusmammillatus), also known as the red pencil urchin or red slate pencil urchin, is a species of tropical sea urchin named for its spines, which resemble old-fashioned pencils. It is found throughout the Indo Pacific and at depths to 25 m. It can reach up to 8 cm in diameter and most specimens are bright red, but brown and purple colorations have also been observed. The bright red specimens are most often seen in Hawai?i. Often found burrowed into coral or limestone areas in subtidal zones of a reef, this sea urchin is easily spotted and identified by beachcombers, snorkelers, and divers. The distinctive spines of the slate pencil urchin can grow up to 12 cm long and 1 cm thick. Its spines were robust enough to be used to write on slate tablets, but nowadays are made into jewelry or souvenirs. Spines on the side of the urchin are worn down by continuous abrasion against rocks while longer dorsal spines protect it against predators. Like other sea urchins, its spines are made of magnesium calcite arranged into a porous network, allowing the passage of fluids and organic matter through them. The spines are dense at the base and more porous at the end. However, the slate pencil urchin?s spines are unique in that the denser material sandwiches the more delicate porous material throughout the spine. There may also be a ring of lighter color around the base of the spine.
Slate pencil urchin. By: sheraca, Flickr.
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Slate pencil urchin. By: Rosa Say, Flickr.
These urchins are nocturnal, hiding in crevices during the day. At night, they will emerge to scrape and consume algae off of rock. They have a habit of unintentionally running over and damaging coral in their movements. The slate pencil urchin will graze on whatever is closest to them and appear to be more active in their movement than other urchins, such as the banded sea urchin and the burrowing urchin. Slate pencil urchins share many predators with other tropical urchins in their habitat. Triggerfish (Family Balistidae), large wrasses (Family Labridae), and emperor breams (Family Lethrinidae) pick away at its spines before eating its soft underside. They have also been collected and eaten by humans. An increase in water temperature coincides with the slate pencil urchin?s breeding. Like other sea urchins, males and females release their gametes into the water for external fertilization. Interestingly, the timing of this reproductive cycle varies from urchin to urchin. Data collected from H. mammillatusfrom a reef near where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Red Sea indicates a possible lunar or semilunar cycle in spawning. However, spawning did not always happen during the same phase of the moon, which means other factors such as the tidal cycle may influence its reproductive stages. The slate pencil urchin?s distinctive, round spines and bright red color make it easy to spot and identify within the crevices of a reef. It is a fun specimen to see, but also a fascinating subject of study among researchers. JULY 2021
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NEW HAW AIIAN OCEAN LAW S By: Brenna Loving, UHH W indward CC MOP Student 14 | Seawords
Beach in Maui. By: pontla, Flickr.
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Sunset on the beach. By: Mariano Mantel, Flickr.
This year?s W orld Oceans Day saw a monumental step forward for marine conservation in Hawai?i as Governor Ige signed nine bills into law. Many of these provide more power to the Department of Land and Natural Resources to enforce laws that protect the islands?marine ecosystems. The first of these bills describes a new process that requires visitors to purchase a license for recreational fishing. These permits range from day passes to annual licenses at $20-$70 per license. Those exempt from the license requirement include active military members, their spouses, and children. This bill also restricts nonresidents from catching and capturing any marine animal in the state. House Bill 1016 similarly allows the DLNR to issue one license for a single commercial vessel, covering all those aboard. It is estimated that the money to result from these will raise approximately $15 million in 15 years to go towards a fund for fishing management across the islands according to DLNR chairwoman Suzanne Case. Another bill (Bill 1018) also provides the DLNR the opportunity to put a permit requirement in place for the use of lay nets, though there are already detailed rules set in place regarding the use of lay nets. Next, House Bill 1019 would impose a $1 fee per passenger on commercial marine vessels in an effort to raise funds for the new Ocean Stewardship Special Fund. This fund will support statewide conservation efforts for the islands?marine environments. Additionally, Senate Bill 772 encourages funding for beach restoration projects by allowing the selling of commemorative license plates. 16 | Seawords
The DLNR received more power with House Bill 1022 which allows officers to detain and potentially fine anyone who is reasonably suspected of fishing or hunting regulated species throughout the state. This is in an effort to allow state officers to actively enforce regulations set in place to protect marine wildlife. Although no changes have been made yet, House Bill 1020 allows the DLNR to make adjustments on bag limits in response to changes in environmental factors and coral bleaching that has plagued coastal reefs for decades. W hile laws have been put in place to prohibit the capturing of certain species, House Bill 1017 repeals what was in place to restrict the capture and killing of female spiny lobsters, Kona, and Samoan crabs. The protection of these species was repealed in order to restore a balance to these populations to foster healthy growth and reproduction. Contrary to the nature of Bill 1017, Bill 553 prohibits the intentional capturing, entanglement, and killing of sharks across the state?s waters, allowing for fines up to $10,000. This shark-protection bill passes in victory after previous years failing to pass. These bills focus on the idea that millions of visitors have been enjoying the beautiful Hawaiian waters for years, but most haven?t given back to their vacation oasis. These new regulations will ensure that the islands?waters receive the proper protection and recognition that they deserve by streamlining funds from tourist recreation and regulation back into the ?aina that is so loved and enjoyed by all. JULY 2021
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Marine protected area. By: Laurent Bartkowski, Flickr.
Highly Protected Marine Areas By: Haley Chasin, UHM MOP Student Highly protected marine areas, or HPMAs, are ?areas of the sea that allow the protection and recovery of marine ecosystems by prohibiting extraction, destruction and depositional uses and allowing only non-damaging levels of other activities to the extent permitted by international law.?W hat that means is that only non-destructive activities, such as swimming, kayaking, or scuba diving can be conducted within these zones. The present goal of these extended protections is to ban destructive fishing methods in five habitats. Currently, the United Kingdom is making plans to implement HPMAs as a way to further commit to preserving marine ecosystems. In the United Kingdom,almost 40%of the country's territorial water is covered by marine protected areas (MPAs). However, the problem with these MPAs is that they still don?t offer protection from destructive fishing activities, including trawling, and they create a conflict for space and resources. MPAs also impose ecological costs, concentrating fishing effort outside their borders or displacing fishing efforts. Current management of MPAs has resulted in a patchwork system which sometimes does not account for environmental changes. This is not to say that MPAs are harmful.The many benefits of MPAs include increased diversity, abundance, size and biomass of species, which can be up to 205 times higher in MPAs compared to fished areas. They can also help ecosystems adapt to climate change.
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Beach. By: Geoff Whalan, Flickr.
MPAs also have market and non-market benefits; market benefits include increased fisheries profitability, spillover effects resulting in more biodiversity for the region as a whole, increased tourism, and provision of ecosystem services. Non-market values, such as the fact that people know that a threatened species is protected,also have societal benefits and increase awareness about the necessity of protected ocean spaces. The HMPA initiative comes about in response to data indicating that detrimental practices still occur in around 97%of British offshore MPAs, which has led to criticisms that these are ?paper parks?, or ineffectively maintained spaces. The current plan calls for five highly protected marine areas which will allow degraded areas to recover and set a new standard for MPAs.The goal is for HMPAs to enhance the level of protection in MPAs by addressing current threats, as well as adaptively managing new sites to account for new environmental stressors. Some conservation groups have criticized HMPAs as distracting from the real problems facing many other protected zones which will not be receiving this new classification, while others believe it to be a step in the right direction but warn that the HMPA system would need to be far more comprehensive in order to truly be effective. There is no question that marine ecosystems are under threat from human activity and environmental pressures. It is heartening that governments are beginning to push for more conscious and protective measures, but there is still a lot of ground to cover in order to truly preserve these fragile spaces. JULY 2021
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Vol u m e XXXVI, Nu m ber 7 Editor : Zada Boyce-Qu en tin Dr. Cyn th ia H u n ter (em in en ce gr ise) Jeffr ey Ku wabar a (em in en ce gr ise) W r itin g Team : Br en n a Lovin g, Ch l oe M ol ou , Caitl in Tsu ch iya, Al exan dr ya Robin son , H al ey Ch asin , an d An n am ar ie Coffar o Seawor ds- M ar in e Option Pr ogr am Un iver sity of H awai ?i , Col l ege of Natu r al Scien ces 2450 Cam pu s Road, Dean H al l 105A H on ol u l u , H I 96822-2219 Tel eph on e: (808) 956-8433 Em ail : <seawor ds@ h awaii.edu > W ebsite: <h ttp:/ / www.h awaii.edu / m op> Seawor ds is th e m on th l y n ewsl etter n ewsl etter of th e M ar in e Option Pr ogr am at th e Un iver sity of H awai?i. Opin ion s expr essed h er ein ar e n ot n ecessar il y th ose of th e M ar in e Option Pr ogr am or of th e Un iver sity of H awai?i. Su ggestion s an d su bm ission s ar e wel com e. Su bm ission s m ay in cl u de ar ticl es, ph otogr aph y,ar t wor k , or an yth in g th at m ay be of in ter est to th e m ar in e com m u n ity in H awai ?i. an d ar ou n d th e wor l d. All photos ar e taken by M OP unless other wise cr edited.