Modelling the effects of green macroalgae blooms on the population dynamics of Cyathura carinata (Crustacea: Isopoda) in an eutrophied estuary

A population dynamics model was developed to simulate the effects of benthic macroalgae blooms (mostly Enteromorpha spp.) on the productivity of Cyathura carinata (Crustacea: Isopoda), a possible keystone species in the benthic communities of the Mondego estuary. The model describes C. carinata population dynamics, as well as the relationships between Enteromorpha biomass, Enteromorpha decaying rates, organic matter content in the sediments and detritus consumption by C. carinata, a detritic feeder. Model results support the idea that seasonal blooms of Enteromorpha determine a significant increase of organic matter content in the sediments, due to macroalgae decay, which initially contributes to enhance C. carinata consumption and growth rates, determining a significant increase in the biomass. Nevertheless, later, following the algae bloom, C. carinata biomass decreases, and reaches its lowest value, close to 0, when the algae crash. This effect is probably related with strong anoxic conditions, especially during night, due to high algal decomposition rates. In accordance with the model, migration of new individuals from adjacent areas must occur in order to recolonise the area affected by the algae bloom. Therefore, it seems reasonable to conclude that macroalgae blooms that are limited in space may favour C. carinata populations, but extensive blooms affecting the whole area of distribution of this species will determine its disappearance.