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Published on: January 6, 2023
Trophic interactions within the Ross Sea continental shelf ecosystem
Walker O Smith1, David G Ainley, Riccardo Cattaneo-Vietti
1Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences, College of William and Mary, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA. wos@vims.edu
Summary
The Ross Sea
Area of Science:
- Marine biology
- Antarctic ecosystem dynamics
- Oceanography
Background:
- The Ross Sea continental shelf is a key Antarctic research area.
- Understanding its food web is crucial for ecosystem management.
- Physical oceanographic data and food web components are well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing data on the Ross Sea's physical characteristics and food web.
- To present a hypothetical food web for the region.
- To identify knowledge gaps and discuss habitat change impacts.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of physical oceanographic data (currents, ice concentration).
- Compilation of data on lower, middle, and upper trophic levels, and benthic fauna.
- Hypothetical food web construction and analysis of biotic interactions.
Main Results:
- The Ross Sea food web features critical roles for Euphausia crystallorophias and Pleuragramma antarcticum.
- Its neritic food web structure differs significantly from other Antarctic regions, which are often centered on Euphausia superba.
- Benthic-pelagic coupling appears stronger in the Ross Sea compared to other Antarctic areas.
Conclusions:
- The unique food web structure and strong benthic-pelagic coupling in the Ross Sea warrant further investigation.
- Significant knowledge gaps remain regarding the ecosystem's complexities.
- Anticipating the impacts of environmental changes on the Ross Sea ecosystem is essential.
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