A Hierarchical and Dynamic Seascape Framework for Scaling and Comparing Ocean Biodiversity Observations

Maria Kavanaugh, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, United States, Frank E Muller-Karger, University of South Florida, College of Marine Science, St. Petersburg, FL, United States, Enrique Montes, University of South Florida, St Petersburg, FL, United States, Jarrod A Santora, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States, Francisco Chavez, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Watsonville, CA, United States, Monique MessiƩ, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Moss Landing, CA, United States and Scott C Doney, University of Virginia, Department of Environmental Sciences, Charlottesville, VA, United States
Abstract:
The pelagic ocean is a complex system in which physical, chemical and biological processes interact to shape patterns on multiple spatial and temporal scales and levels of ecological organization. Monitoring and management of marine seascapes must consider a hierarchical and dynamic mosaic, where the boundaries, extent, and location of features change with time. As part of a Marine Biodiversity Observing Network demonstration project, we conducted a multiscale classification of dynamic coastal seascapes in the northeastern Pacific and Gulf of Mexico using multivariate satellite and modeled data. Synoptic patterns were validated using mooring and ship-based observations that spanned multiple trophic levels and were collected as part of several long-term monitoring programs, including the Monterey Bay and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuaries. Seascape extent and habitat diversity varied as a function of both seasonal and interannual forcing. We discuss the patterns of in situ observations in the context of seascape dynamics and the effect on rarefaction, spatial patchiness, and tracking and comparing ecosystems through time. A seascape framework presents an effective means to translate local biodiversity measurements to broader spatiotemporal scales, scales relevant for modeling the effects of global change and enabling whole-ecosystem management in the dynamic ocean.