An ecosystem perspective on potential impacts of drilling fluid discharges on seagrasses |
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Authors: | John R Kelly Thomas W Duke Mark A Harwell Christine C Harwell |
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Institution: | (1) Ecosystems Research Center Corson Hall, Cornell University, 14853 Ithaca, New York, USA;(2) Environmental Research Laboratory, US Environmental Protection Agency, 32561 Gulf Breeze, Florida, USA |
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Abstract: | Potential effects of oil drilling fluid discharges uponThalassia seagrass ecosystems were examined using seagrass core microcosms. Observed experimental effects, summarized in this article, included changes in both autotrophic (Thalassia and epiphyte) and heterotrophic (dominant benthic macroinvertebrates) species, and the processes of primary productivity and decomposition. The physical disturbance related to greater turbidity and sedimentation caused some effects, while others seemed a direct response to the toxic constituents of drilling fluids. Using these experimental results and the case ofThalassia and drilling fluids as a case study, we explore general methodological and philosophical issues for ecotoxicology and, furthermore, focus upon the challenge of providing a scientific basis for judging acceptability of environmental changes likely to ensue from human activities. |
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Keywords: | Seagrass Drilling Fluids Ecotoxicology Risk assessment |
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