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Seabirds Enhance Primary Producer and Consumer Isotope Signals on a Sub-Tropical Island
Megan L Grant1,2, Suzie M Reichman3, Alexander L Bond2,4
1Instititute for Marine and Antarctic Studies University of Tasmania Newnham Lutruwita/Tasmania Australia.
Ecology and Evolution
|July 28, 2025
Summary
Sable Shearwater guano fertilizes terrestrial ecosystems with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Despite declining populations, their nutrient deposition significantly impacts island environments, affecting vegetation.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Environmental Science
- Biogeochemistry
Background:
- Seabirds are crucial nutrient transporters, connecting marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
- Seabird guano acts as a natural fertilizer, influencing terrestrial environments.
- The Sable Shearwater (Ardenna carneipes) plays a role in nutrient cycling on Lord Howe Island.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the nutrient content of Sable Shearwater guano.
- To analyze changes in nutrient concentrations and isotope signals in the terrestrial environment.
- To compare active, abandoned, and uncolonized seabird sites on Lord Howe Island.
Main Methods:
- Nutrient analysis of Sable Shearwater guano.
- Stable isotope analysis (δ15N) of guano, palm leaves, invertebrates, and soil.
- Comparative study across three distinct terrestrial sites.
Main Results:
- Sable Shearwater guano is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Palm leaves and invertebrates in colonies showed elevated δ15N.
- Soil nitrogen isotope values did not differ significantly between sites, suggesting historical impacts.
Conclusions:
- Seabird guano significantly fertilizes terrestrial soils with essential nutrients.
- Declining Sable Shearwater populations may lead to reduced nutrient input and altered vegetation.
- Understanding nutrient transport by seabirds is vital for island ecosystem management.
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