Discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies on Atlantic lower bathyal rock and other hard substrata

Summary

UK and Ireland classification

Description

This biotope is a deeper variant of discrete Lophelia pertusa colonies where Lophelia pertusa is replaced by Solenosmilia variabilis occurring on bedrock. The same assemblage was recorded on coarse sediment but associated species are likely to differ. Characterizing species listed refer to all discrete Solenosmilia variabilis assemblages, not just those found associated with the zone and substratum specified in this biotope.

Depth range

1300-2100 m

Additional information

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Sensitivity reviewHow is sensitivity assessed?

Sensitivity characteristics of the habitat and relevant characteristic species

This biotope, which occurs in the Atlantic lower bathyal zone, is primarily formed by the cold-water coral species Solenosmilia variabilis. The sensitivity of this biogenic structure is therefore dependent upon Solenosmilia variabilis as the predominant species, as loss of this species may result in loss or degradation of the biotope. Other species present in the assemblages can include Ophiuroidea sp. 2, Ophiuroidea sp. 8, Crinoidea sp. 1, Caryophyllia sp. 2, Porifera encrusting and Bathypathes. The presence of these other species is not essential for the classification of the biotope, so they are not considered significant to the assessment of sensitivity. 

Resilience and recovery rates of habitat

Solenosmilia variabilis is globally distributed (Fallon et al., 2014; Pires et al., 2014), but has more recently been identified in the Antarctic, as well as the North and East Pacific Ocean (Fallon et al., 2014; Miyamoto et al., 2017). Solenosmilia variabilis occurs on seamounts and continental shelves where hard substrata are available, including hills, knolls, peaks, canyons and upper slopes (Clark et al., 2010; Clark & Rowden, 2009; Fallon et al., 2014; Freiwald et al., 2004; O’Hara et al., 2008; Zeng et al., 2017). Solenosmilia variabilis is often observed in relatively exposed areas on seamounts characterized by elevated currents that deliver food particles, remove waste and prevents the damaging accumulation of sediment (Baker et al., 2001). Globally, Solenosmilia variabilis has a large depth range, 220-2165 m, (Freiwald et al., 2004) and temperature range, 2.5°C to 14.5°C, (Os’kina et al., 2010; Thresher et al., 2015). In the UK and Irish waters, discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are known to occur on Rockall Bank (O’Sullivan et al., 2018), the Irish Continental Slope (O’Sullivan et al., 2017), within the Porcupine Seabight (O’Sullivan et al., 2018) and on the flanks of Anton Dohrn Seamount (Howell et al., 2016). Although similar to discrete Lophelia pertusa (syn. Desmophyllum pertusum) colonies, discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies occur at deeper depths (>1,300 m) than Lophelia in the UK and Irish waters.

The growth rates of Solenosmilia variabilis are slow (Pires et al., 2014), growing up to 1.25 mm/yr (Fallon et al., 2014). Solenosmilia variabilis is also a long-lived species. Carbon-14 dating by Hall-Spencer et al. (2002) of dead Solenosmilia variabilis fragments, collected from bycatch (West Ireland continental shelf), aged samples at 637 ±39 years. Another study by Fallon et al. (2014), aged Solenosmilia variabilis samples from reefs on seamounts off Tasmania, Australia. Samples collected from the live colonies on the reef summit were aged approximately 120 years. As Solenosmilia variabilis is long-lived and slow-growing, it also reaches sexual maturity after many years (Zeng et al. 2017).

Solenosmilia variabilis has a high fecundity with >290 oocytes per polyp (Burgess & Babcock, 2005), similar to other cold-water corals such as Lophelia pertusa (Waller & Tylers, 2005). Solenosmilia variabilis reproduces year-round, but they do have a peak in reproduction between April and September (Pires et al., 2014). They use both asexual and sexual reproduction (Burgess & Babcock, 2005; Pires et al., 2014). Asexually, Solenosmilia variabilis reproduces by intracellular budding (Burgess & Babcock, 2005), and sexually they are gonochoric (Burgess & Babcock, 2005; Pires et al., 2014) broadcast spawners (Pires et al., 2014). In the North-West Pacific, fertilization happens in late April or May (Burgess & Babcock, 2005). However, the dispersal of the sexually reproduced planula larvae is insignificant. This has resulted in isolated populations across the North-West Pacific and reliance upon asexual self-recruitment, with 76% of Solenosmilia variabilis samples collected being clonal (Miller & Gunasekera, 2017).

Limited evidence of Solenosmilia variabilis reef recovery was found. However, there is currently no evidence to suggest that Solenosmilia variabilis reefs recover from damage. Cold-water coral reefs are severely damaged by trawling activities, possibly taking several hundred or thousands of years to recover – if at all  (Freiwald et al., 2004; Fosså et al., 2002; Hall-Spencer, 2002). Destroyed Solenosmilia variabilis reefs have been observed on the West Ireland continental slope (Hall-Spencer et al., 2002), seamounts off Tasmania (Koslow et al., 2001) and New Zealand (Burgess & Babcock, 2005; Clark & Rowden, 2009; Clark et al., 2019). Williams et al. (2010) reported that there was no sign of recovery of a Solenosmilia variabilis reef 10 years after the cessation of bottom trawling in Tasmania. However, the time for the growth and recovery of discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies is probably significantly shorter compared to the reef. The recovery of Solenosmilia reef requires the accumulation of coral framework over hundreds of years - the discrete colony biotope does not.

Althaus et al. (2009) assessed the effects of trawling on Tasmanian seamounts that were actively trawled, where trawling had ceased (5-10 years) and that had never been trawled. Solenosmilia variabilis abundance and coral cover across the seamounts were reflective of trawling activity. Although greatly reduced when compared to seamounts where trawling had not occurred, seamounts, where trawling had ceased,  Solenosmilia variabilis abundance and cover was higher than where it was still active. The Solenosmilia variabilis present on seamounts recovering from trawling may represent new growth, however, the authors did caution this may be existing colonies not damaged by trawling because they were protected in crevices or by large boulders. Evidence of the recovery of Solenosmilia variabilis colonies is limited to this study, but Lophelia pertusa can also be used as a proxy. From experiments within controlled aquaria, there is evidence that Lophelia pertusa can recover from very small fragments (Maier, 2008), whilst colonization of oil and gas platforms provide evidence that the larvae of Lophelia pertusa have the potential to establish discrete colonies and grow to considerable sizes (≤ 118 cm) within 20-25 years (Gass & Roberts, 2006). Although it appears recovery of discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies appears possible, the process is slow because of Solenosmilia variabilis' life history, in particular slow-growth and late sexual maturity. Additionally, recolonization will rely on the successful recruitment of larvae.

Resilience assessment. Where resistance is ‘None’, ‘Low’ or ‘Medium’, resilience is assessed as ‘Low’ (10-25 years). There is some evidence to suggest that discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies can recover from damage. However, any Solenosmilia variabilis recovery would be slow given its life history and slow growth. In combination with available recoverability information on Solenosmilia variabilis and similar cold-water corals, it is possible that recovery of colonies can occur within 25 years. In addition, for permanent or ongoing (long-term) pressures where recovery is not possible (no cessation of a pressure and reversion to previous conditions), resilience is assessed as ‘Very low’ by default.

Hydrological Pressures

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ResistanceResilienceSensitivity
Temperature increase (local) [Show more]

Temperature increase (local)

Benchmark. A 5°C increase in temperature for one month, or 2°C for one year. Further detail

Evidence

Solenosmilia variabilis has a wide thermal niche from 2.5 to 14.5°C (Os’kina et al., 2010; Thresher et al., 2015). There is no evidence of Solenosmilia variabilis tolerance to changes in local temperatures.

There is some evidence that Lophelia pertusa – as a proxy for Solenosmilia variabilis – has some tolerance for variable local temperatures, particularly when occurring in the presence of internal waves. Mienis et al. (2007) recorded temperature fluctuations greater than 3°C caused by internal waves on cold-water coral carbonate mounds on Rockall Bank (North-East Atlantic). Furthermore, Davies et al. (2009) observed internal waves breaking over Mingulay Reef, with temperatures varying by 0.75°C. Oceanographic models used by Pearman et al. (2020) that incorporate internal tides indicate that cold-water corals in Whittard Canyon occupy temperatures between 5.6-9.6°C, a range of 4°C. This evidence indicates that these corals tolerate relatively large changes in local temperatures at tidal frequencies but at temporal scales smaller (hours) than that of the benchmark (6 or 12 months).

Other evidence suggests (Guihen et al., 2012; Brooke et al., 2013) that Lophelia in the North-East Atlantic could probably survive a localized short-term change in temperature of 5°C for a month, as long as the temperature did not exceed its thermal tolerance limit. The effects of a prolonged chronic increase in temperature (e.g. 2°C for a year, the benchmark) would probably depend on the location and other factors, e.g. food supply, but there is no empirical evidence of the effect of temperature changes at the level of the benchmark.

Sensitivity assessment. Based on the available evidence, including Lophelia as a proxy, resistance is assessed as ‘Medium’ as a precaution based on possible long-term effects of increased temperature. Therefore, resilience is assessed as ‘Low’ and sensitivity as ‘Medium’.

Medium
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Low
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Medium
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Temperature decrease (local) [Show more]

Temperature decrease (local)

Benchmark. A 5°C decrease in temperature for one month, or 2°C for one year. Further detail

Evidence

Solenosmilia variabilis has a wide thermal niche from 2.5 to 14.5°C (Os’kina et al., 2010; Thresher et al., 2015). There is no evidence of Solenosmilia variabilis tolerance to changes in local temperatures.

There is some evidence that Lophelia pertusa – as a proxy for Solenosmilia variabilis – has some tolerance for variable local temperatures, particularly when occurring in the presence of internal waves. Mienis et al. (2007) recorded temperature fluctuations greater than 3°C caused by internal waves on cold-water coral carbonate mounds on Rockall Bank (North-East Atlantic). Furthermore, Davies et al. (2009) observed internal waves breaking over Mingulay Reef, with temperatures varying by 0.75°C. Oceanographic models used by Pearman et al. (2020) that incorporate internal tides indicate that cold-water corals in Whittard Canyon occupy temperatures between 5.6-9.6°C, a range of 4°C. This evidence indicates that these corals tolerate relatively large changes in local temperatures at tidal frequencies but at temporal scales smaller (hours) than that of the benchmark (6 or 12 months).

Other evidence suggests (Guihen et al., 2012; Brooke et al., 2013) that Lophelia in the North-East Atlantic could probably survive a localized short-term change in temperature of 5°C for a month, as long as the temperature did not exceed its thermal tolerance limit. The effects of a prolonged chronic decrease in temperature (e.g. 2°C for a year, the benchmark) would probably depend on the location and other factors, e.g. food supply, but there is no empirical evidence of the effect of temperature changes at the level of the benchmark.

Sensitivity assessment. Based on the available evidence, including Lophelia as a proxy, resistance is assessed as ‘Medium’ as a precaution based on possible long-term effects of decreased temperature. Therefore, resilience is assessed as ‘Low’ and sensitivity as ‘Medium’.

Medium
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Low
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Medium
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Low
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Salinity increase (local) [Show more]

Salinity increase (local)

Benchmark. A increase in one MNCR salinity category above the usual range of the biotope or habitat. Further detail

Evidence

The depths at which Solenosmilia variabilis occurs in the North-East Atlantic are characterized by full salinity (30-35 psu) seawater. In situ salinity measurements at Solenosmilia reefs have ranged from 34.3 to 35.0 psu (Bostock et al., 2015; Ramiro-Sanchez et al., 2019; Raddatz et al., 2020). At these depths, discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are unlikely to encounter natural changes in salinity.

Sensitivity assessment.  Due to the highly stable conditions in which discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are usually found, a change in salinity due to human activities is likely to cause mortality of the coral polyps.  Consequently, resistance has been assessed as ‘Low’, resilience as ‘Low’, and sensitivity assessed as ‘High’.

Low
Low
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Low
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High
Low
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Salinity decrease (local) [Show more]

Salinity decrease (local)

Benchmark. A decrease in one MNCR salinity category above the usual range of the biotope or habitat. Further detail

Evidence

The depths at which Solenosmilia variabilis occurs in the North-East Atlantic are characterized by full salinity (30-35 psu) seawater. In situ salinity measurements at Solenosmilia reefs have ranged from 34.3 to 35.0 psu (Bostock et al., 2015; Ramiro-Sanchez et al., 2019; Raddatz et al., 2020). At these depths, discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are unlikely to encounter natural changes in salinity.

Sensitivity assessment.  Due to the highly stable conditions in which discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are usually found, a change in salinity due to human activities is likely to cause mortality of the coral polyps.  Consequently, resistance has been assessed as ‘Low’, resilience as ‘Low’, and sensitivity assessed as ‘High’.

Low
Low
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Low
Medium
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High
Low
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Water flow (tidal current) changes (local) [Show more]

Water flow (tidal current) changes (local)

Benchmark. A change in peak mean spring bed flow velocity of between 0.1 m/s to 0.2 m/s for more than one year. Further detail

Evidence

Cold-water corals are often associated with strong tidal currents. Reefs are often associated with topographical features that enhance tidal currents, such as raised seabed features (e.g. seamounts and banks) and narrow channels or canyons (Rogers, 1999). Higher flow rates are thought to improve food supply, as well as reduce the accumulation of sediment (Roberts et al., 2009).

No evidence of the effects of variable tidal currents on Solenosmilia variabilis was found, but the evidence is available for Lophelia as a proxy. Cold-water coral carbonate mounds on Rockall Bank are linked to the presence of internal waves and tidal currents, and shaped by the local hydrodynamic regime (Mienis et al., 2007). The residual currents around the mounds are 0.1 m/s, with maximum current speeds of 0.45 m/s. Davies et al. (2009) also reported variable current speeds across Mingulay Reef (Scotland) that were also tidally induced, with a residual current speed of 0.29 m/s and a maximum of 0.81 m/s.

Mortensen (2001) investigated the growth and behaviour of Lophelia pertusa in an aquarium with flowing seawater.  No polyp mortality was observed in the vicinity of aquaria inlets (0.06 m/s) but high mortality occurred at the opposite end where the current was slower (0.02 m/s) due to sediment accumulation. Similar in situ observations were made by Davies et al. (2015) on Anton Dohrn Seamount where, in low current areas, sedimentation had smothered the Solenosmilia.

Sensitivity assessment. The available evidence suggests that in the North-East Atlantic, discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are likely to tolerate an increase in tidal currents at the benchmark. Considering the fluctuating current speeds that cold-water corals experience, the benchmark increase is relatively small compared to the variance already experienced. Both resistance and resilience have been assessed as ‘High’, and sensitivity assessed as ‘Not sensitive’ at the benchmark level.

High
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High
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Not sensitive
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Emergence regime changes [Show more]

Emergence regime changes

Benchmark.  1) A change in the time covered or not covered by the sea for a period of ≥1 year or 2) an increase in relative sea level or decrease in high water level for ≥1 year. Further detail

Evidence

Discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are found at lower bathyal depths, therefore they will not be impacted by a change in emergence. As a result, this pressure is assessed as ‘Not relevant’.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Wave exposure changes (local) [Show more]

Wave exposure changes (local)

Benchmark. A change in near shore significant wave height of >3% but <5% for more than one year. Further detail

Evidence

Discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are found at lower bathyal depths, therefore they will not be impacted by changes in wave exposure. As a result, this pressure is assessed as ‘Not relevant’.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Chemical Pressures

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ResistanceResilienceSensitivity
Transition elements & organo-metal contamination [Show more]

Transition elements & organo-metal contamination

Benchmark. Exposure of marine species or habitat to one or more relevant contaminants via uncontrolled releases or incidental spills. Further detail

Evidence

Not assessed.

Not Assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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Hydrocarbon & PAH contamination [Show more]

Hydrocarbon & PAH contamination

Benchmark. Exposure of marine species or habitat to one or more relevant contaminants via uncontrolled releases or incidental spills. Further detail

Evidence

Not assessed.

Not Assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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Synthetic compound contamination [Show more]

Synthetic compound contamination

Benchmark. Exposure of marine species or habitat to one or more relevant contaminants via uncontrolled releases or incidental spills. Further detail

Evidence

Not assessed.

Not Assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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Radionuclide contamination [Show more]

Radionuclide contamination

Benchmark. An increase in 10µGy/h above background levels. Further detail

Evidence

Currently, the effect of radioactive waste on cold-water corals is unknown. Local leakage of radioactive waste would likely impact coral colonies (Ragnarsson et al., 2016). However, ‘no evidence’ was found.

No evidence (NEv)
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Not relevant (NR)
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No evidence (NEv)
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Introduction of other substances [Show more]

Introduction of other substances

Benchmark. Exposure of marine species or habitat to one or more relevant contaminants via uncontrolled releases or incidental spills. Further detail

Evidence

Not assessed.

Not Assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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De-oxygenation [Show more]

De-oxygenation

Benchmark. Exposure to dissolved oxygen concentration of less than or equal to 2 mg/l for one week (a change from WFD poor status to bad status). Further detail

Evidence

No direct evidence is available on the resistance of ​​​​​​discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies to de-oxygenation. However, in situ measurements of dissolved oxygen concentrations at Solenosmilia variabilis reefs vary from 5.76 mg/l  in the SW Pacific (Bostock et al., 2015), to 6.57 mg/l on Solenosmilia variabilis carbonate mounds off Brazil (Raddatz et al., 2020). Observations from Thresher et al. (2014) suggest that on Tasmanian seamounts, the lower extent of live Solenosmilia variabilis colonies on the reef is determined by the oxygen minimum zone (3.8 mg/l). Above the oxygen-minimum zone (1,400 m) sub-fossil Solenosmilia variabilis rubble was present that had been blackened by ferromanganese oxide deposits. Above this depth, live Solenosmilia variabilis colonies were present on the reef, with a relatively high abundance of epifauna.

Similarly to Solenosmilia variabilis, the oxygen-minimum zone is believed to delimit the lower distribution of Lophelia in the North-East Atlantic is (Freiwald, 1998; Rogers, 1999). Dodds et al. (2007) investigated the metabolic tolerance of Lophelia pertusa to temperature and dissolved oxygen change in the laboratory. They found that Lophelia could survive anoxia for one hour, and hypoxia (2-3 kPa; 0.88-1.32 mg/l) for 96 hours (four days). Lophelia was able to increase its uptake of oxygen by the expansion of the surface area of its polyp in response to low oxygen concentrations (Dodds et al., 2007). Lunden et al. (2014) also studied the effect of decreasing oxygen concentration of Lophelia collected from the Gulf of Mexico. Oxygen concentrations within the Gulf of Mexico are lower than those recorded in the North-East Atlantic, with records ranging from 1.5 - 3.2 ml/l (2.14 – 4.57 mg/l) (Lunden et al., 2014) and, therefore, have a higher tolerance through local adaptation to lower dissolved oxygen concentrations compared to North-East Atlantic populations. Laboratory experiments exposed Lophelia to different oxygen concentrations for seven days.  The Lophelia samples survived (100%) exposure to 5.3 and 2.9 ml/l, but experienced 100% mortality at 1.57 ml/l (2.24 mg/l) after seven days. 

Sensitivity assessment. A change in oxygen concentration at the benchmark (2 mg/l or less for a week) has the potential to cause significant mortality in cold-water corals in North-East Atlantic. Evidence suggests that live Solenosmilia variabilis colonies do not persist where oxygen concentration is below 3.8 mg/l, and direct evidence from Lunden et al. (2014) suggest that exposure to 2.24 mg/l (1.57 ml/l) conditions resulted in complete mortality of the proxy, Lophelia. Therefore, resistance is assessed as ‘Low’, and resilience is assessed as ‘Low', so that sensitivity is probably ‘High’.

Low
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Low
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High
Medium
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Nutrient enrichment [Show more]

Nutrient enrichment

Benchmark. Compliance with WFD criteria for good status. Further detail

Evidence

Nutrient availability is important for cold-water coral growth. Raddatz et al. (2020) showed that periods of enhanced Solenosmilia variabilis mound formation off Brazil were linked to nutrient-rich intermediate waters, which facilitate coral growth. In addition, Bahr et al. (2020) have linked strong monsoon seasons with increased Solenosmilia variabilis growth. Heavy monsoon seasons bring elevated run-off enhanced by terrigenous nutrients and organic matter. This material is transported to the continental margin of Brazil, boosting productivity and ultimately providing more organic materials for cold-water corals. Although it is understood that Solenosmilia variabilis can withstand and capitalise on fluctuating pulses of nutrient enrichment, there is no available evidence of the effect of nutrient enrichment on Solenosmilia variabilis. As a result, this pressure is recorded as ‘No evidence’.

No evidence (NEv)
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Not relevant (NR)
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No evidence (NEv)
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Organic enrichment [Show more]

Organic enrichment

Benchmark. A deposit of 100 gC/m2/yr. Further detail

Evidence

Dissolved and particulate organic matter (DOM/POM) are important food sources for cold-water corals (Bahr et al., 2020; Gori et al., 2014; van Ovelen et al., 2016). However, there is no evidence was found on the effect of organic enrichment at the level of the benchmark on ​​​​​​discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies. Therefore, ‘No evidence’ is recorded.

No evidence (NEv)
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Not relevant (NR)
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No evidence (NEv)
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Physical Pressures

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ResistanceResilienceSensitivity
Physical loss (to land or freshwater habitat) [Show more]

Physical loss (to land or freshwater habitat)

Benchmark. A permanent loss of existing saline habitat within the site. Further detail

Evidence

All marine habitats and benthic species are considered to have a resistance of ‘None’ to this pressure and to be unable to recover from a permanent loss of available habitat (resilience is ‘Very low’). The discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colony biotopes are therefore considered to have ‘High’ sensitivity to this pressure.

None
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Very Low
High
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High
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High
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Physical change (to another seabed type) [Show more]

Physical change (to another seabed type)

Benchmark. Permanent change from sedimentary or soft rock substrata to hard rock or artificial substrata or vice-versa. Further detail

Evidence

Solenosmilia variabilis larvae, like Lophelia pertusa, require hard substratum to settle and form a solid anchoring point, such as bedrock, coral rubble or artificial substrata (e.g. oil and gas platforms). For a change in substrata to occur, the original substratum would have to be removed and, therefore, remove coral colonies. This would destroy the biotope and suitable substratum for recovery.

Sensitivity assessment.  Therefore, a resistance of ‘None’ and resilience of ‘Very Low’ has been recorded, resulting in a sensitivity of ‘High’.

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Very Low
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High
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Physical change (to another sediment type) [Show more]

Physical change (to another sediment type)

Benchmark. Permanent change in one Folk class (based on UK SeaMap simplified classification). Further detail

Evidence

Solenosmilia variabilis larvae, like Lophelia pertusa, must settle onto bedrock or other hard and coarse substrata. This allows a solid anchoring point to be established, from which the coral skeleton can grow. As discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies occur on hard (i.e. bedrock) or coarse substrata, this pressure is deemed ‘Not Relevant’

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Habitat structure changes - removal of substratum (extraction) [Show more]

Habitat structure changes - removal of substratum (extraction)

Benchmark. The extraction of substratum to 30 cm (where substratum includes sediments and soft rock but excludes hard bedrock). Further detail

Evidence

Solenosmilia variabilis larvae, like Lophelia pertusa, must settle onto bedrock or other hard or coarse substrata. Discrete Solonosmilia variabilis colonies may slow local currents, resulting in the deposition and accumulation of suspended sediments which may also be extracted. Removal of these softer sediments would destroy any Solenosmilia variabilis colonies.

Sensitivity review. Discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies have no resistance to the removal of 30 cm of substrata, therefore, resistance is assessed as ‘None’. The long-lived nature (Hall-Spencer et al., 2002) and slow growth rates (Gammon et al., 2018) of Solenosmilia variabilis means that resilience is ‘Low’, giving this biotope an overall sensitivity of ‘High’

None
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High
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Abrasion / disturbance of the surface of the substratum or seabed [Show more]

Abrasion / disturbance of the surface of the substratum or seabed

Benchmark. Damage to surface features (e.g. species and physical structures within the habitat). Further detail

Evidence

The main sources of potential abrasion and disturbance relevant to discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are from bottom fishing, e.g. beam trawls, deep-sea mining activity, e.g. mining vehicles (Miller et al. 2018), anchoring or positioning of offshore structures (Angiolillo et al., 2015).

There is limited evidence about the recovery of discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies. The abrasive action of bottom-contacting fishing nets can break Solenosmilia variabilis colonies. Hall-Spencer et al. (2001) documented the bycatch of Solenosmilia variabilis fragments, along the West Ireland continental slope.

Althaus et al. (2009) assessed the effects of trawling on Tasmanian seamounts that were actively trawled, where trawling had ceased (5-10 years) and that had never been trawled. Solenosmilia variabilis abundance and coral cover across the seamounts were reflective of trawling activity. Although greatly reduced when compared to seamounts where trawling had not occurred, on seamounts, where trawling had ceased, Solenosmilia variabilis abundance and cover was higher than where trawling was still active. The Solenosmilia variabilis present on seamounts recovering from trawling may represent new growth, however, the authors did caution this may be existing colonies not damaged by trawling because they were protected in crevices or by large boulders.

Evidence of the recovery of Solenosmilia variabilis colonies is limited to Althaus et al. (2009), but Lophelia pertusa can also be used as a proxy. From experiments within controlled aquaria, there is evidence that Lophelia pertusa can recover from very small fragments (Maier, 2008), whilst colonization of oil and gas platforms provide evidence that the larvae of Lophelia pertusa have the potential to establish discrete colonies and grow to considerable sizes (≤ 118 cm) within 20-25 years (Gass & Roberts, 2006). Although it appears recovery of discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies appears possible, the process is slow because of Solenosmilia variabilis' life history, in particular slow-growth and late sexual maturity. Additionally, recolonization will rely on the successful recruitment of larvae.

Beyond this, the available data is primarily about Solenosmila variabilis or Lophelia pertusa reefs. However, the time for the growth and recovery of discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies is probably significantly shorter compared to the reef. The recovery of Solenosmilia reef requires the accumulation of coral framework over hundreds of years - the discrete colony biotope does not.

Sensitivity assessment. There is significant evidence of damage by abrasion to Solenosmilia variabilis and other cold-water corals caused by deep-sea trawling. Therefore, resistance is assessed as ‘None’, and resilience is ‘Low’, giving the biotope a sensitivity of ‘High’.

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Penetration or disturbance of the substratum subsurface [Show more]

Penetration or disturbance of the substratum subsurface

Benchmark. Damage to sub-surface features (e.g. species and physical structures within the habitat). Further detail

Evidence

Penetration and or disturbance of the substratum would result in similar, if not identical, results as abrasion or removal of discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies and their associated community (see abrasion/disturbance).

Sensitivity assessment. A resistance of ‘None’ has been given. If the substratum were penetrated or disturbed, then the overlying Solnosmilia variabilis colonies would be affected.  The long-lived (Hall-Spencer et al., 2002) and slow-growing nature (Gammon et al., 2018) of Solenosmilia variabilis, the characterizing species within this biotope, means that damage incurred would take a long time to recover. Therefore, resilience has been assessed as ‘Low’ resulting in sensitivity being ‘High’.

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Changes in suspended solids (water clarity) [Show more]

Changes in suspended solids (water clarity)

Benchmark. A change in one rank on the WFD (Water Framework Directive) scale e.g. from clear to intermediate for one year. Further detail

Evidence

As a suspension feeder, Solenosmilia variabilis relies upon the delivery of food particles (suspended solids) via currents. The known effects of varying amounts of suspended particles on Solenosmilia variabilis is limited to Davies et al. (2015). Their study suggested that Solenosmilia variabilis on Anton Dohrn Seamount was not effective at removing sediment from its polyps. Davies et al. (2015) observed the high accumulation of sediments in the reef where there was low current flow. They explain that the accumulation of sediment (which would be exacerbated with a change in WFD scale, e.g. from clear to intermediate or intermediate to medium) can smother polyps and cause tissue loss. Tissue loss can expose the coral skeleton, making it vulnerable to fouling.

Lophelia pertusa (another cold-water coral species distributed in the North-East Atlantic and is similar to Solenosmilia variabilis) can withstand periodic fluctuation in turbidity over short temporal scales. Davies et al. (2009) consistently observed high loads of suspended matter transported by tidal currents over Lophelia pertusa reef (Mingulay Reef complex) during peak tides, enhancing the delivery of particles, including food, to the coral and associated fauna. This association between hydrodynamics, suspended particles and cold-water coral occurrence is also confirmed by Mienis et al. (2007) and Pearman et al. (2020).

Brooke et al. (2009) tested the tolerance of two Lophelia morphotypes, ‘brachycephala’ (heavily calcified) and ‘gracilis’ (fragile), to five different levels of turbidity in aquaria over 14 days. The results suggested that both Lophelia morphotypes were tolerant to ‘fairly heavy’ sediment conditions, but that mortality increased rapidly with higher sediment loads or longer burial time. Both morphotypes had 100% survival rates in clear conditions (<10 mg/l), and over 80% of Lophelia kept at intermediate turbidity conditions (10 –100 mg/l) survived. Two of the experimental turbidities fell within the medium turbidity WFD ranks; these were 103 mg/l and 245 mg/l.  In the former, both morphotypes had a survival rate of >50%, and the latter had a survival rate of >30%.  The ‘gracilis’ morphotype (fragile) experienced 100% mortality at the highest turbidity examined (ca 362 mg/l) while the ‘brachycephala’ morphotype had an extremely low survival rate (<10%).

Mortensen (2001) found that when both food and sediment were presented to Lophelia at the same time sediment was ingested.  However, the process of feeding and polyp cleaning does not occur at the same time (Brooke et al., 2009).  An increase in turbidity would lead to more settlement of sediment onto the coral polyps. This would lead to an increase in the amount of time required to remove the sediment from the polyp, which could restrict the amount of time available for feeding. Brooke et al. (2009) suggested that this could lead to the starvation of the coral polyp even though food may be available.

A decrease in suspended material at the level of the benchmark could lead to a reduction in the availability of food. However, Larsson et al. (2013) reported that Lophelia was highly tolerant of living on minimal resources (food) for several months. In their experiments, Lophelia survived (100%) starvation for 28 weeks (Larsson et al., 2013).

Sensitivity assessment.  Direct evidence of the effects of suspended material on Solenosmilia variabilis is not available, but it is known that it is not resistant to high accumulation of sediments (Davies et al., 2015). Using Lophelia as a proxy, evidence suggests that a change in turbidity from clear to intermediate (10 mg/l to 10-100 mg/l) for a year could result in limited or some mortality. However, a change from intermediate to medium turbidity (100-300 mg/l) for a year could result in significant mortality depending on duration and the local hydrographic regime. For example, Brooke et al. (2009) demonstrated significant mortality after only 14 days at 103 and 245 mg/l.  Therefore, resistance is assessed as ‘Low’, resilience as ‘Low’, and sensitivity is assessed as ‘High’ at the benchmark level.

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Smothering and siltation rate changes (light) [Show more]

Smothering and siltation rate changes (light)

Benchmark. ‘Light’ deposition of up to 5 cm of fine material added to the seabed in a single discrete event. Further detail

Evidence

There is limited evidence of the direct effects of smothering on Solenosmilia variabilis. Davies et al. (2015) suggest that Solenosmilia variabilis occurring on Anton Dohrn Seamount is not effective at removing sediment from its polyps. Davies et al. (2015) observed the high accumulation of sediments where there was low current flow. They explained that the accumulation of sediment – although the amount was not quantified – can smother polyps and cause tissue loss, which can expose the coral skeleton and make it vulnerable to fouling.

Direct evidence of the effect of smothering is available for Lophelia pertusa – another cold-water coral species distributed in the North-East Atlantic and is similar to Solenosmilia variabilis. Rogers (1999) suggested that an increase in sedimentation would be likely to interfere with feeding, and therefore also growth. This would alter the balance between growth and bioerosion. However, more recent studies suggest that Lophelia pertusa are highly tolerant to living on minimal resources (food). Observations by Larsson et al. (2013) suggest that Lophelia pertusa is highly tolerant to starvation, with all polyps surviving starvation for 28 weeks (6 months).

Lophelia larvae would also be unable to settle on substrata smothered in soft sediment and, therefore, affect recruitment (Rogers, 1999). In addition, if high sediment loads occur during larval development, e.g. exposure to drill cuttings, all or part of the larval cohort may be lost (Jarnegren et al., 2017).

Larsson & Purser (2011) exposed Lophelia pertusa fragments to 6.5 (0.65 cm) and 19.0 mm (1.90 cm) of fine sediments (<63 µm drill cuttings) for three weeks. Under 6.5 mm conditions, 0.5% of polyps (1) died, whilst 3.7% of polyps died under 19.0 mm. Coral tissue was smothered and polyp mortality occurred where polyps became completely covered by material. Larsson & Purser (2011) concluded that the burial of coral by drill cuttings to the current threshold level used in environmental risk assessment models by the offshore industry (6.3 mm) may result in damage to colonies.

Allers et al. (2013) observed in laboratory experiments that sediment accumulates slowly on Lophelia because of its branching structure and mucus production. Under high sedimentation rates (462 mg/cm2) fragments were not completed covered by sediment, and no detrimental short-term effects from exposure to sediment were observed, despite reduced access to oxygen (as H2S production was detected). These results suggest that Lophelia has some tolerance to low-oxygen and anoxic conditions for short periods. However, in further experiments, the complete burial of coral branches for >24 hrs in anoxic sediment resulted in suffocation. After removal, rinsing and 24 hrs recovery, these polyps were considered dead. Allers et al. (2013) concluded that Lophelia was resilient to sediment-induced oxygen stress, but that resilience is conditional. If polyps are completely covered and smothering is long-lasting (>24 hrs), then the coral will die. Naturally occurring sedimentation rates are less than those used in this study, but sedimentation from anthropogenic activities may be more comparable.

Sensitivity assessment. At this benchmark level, it is unlikely that the many Solenosmilia variabilis polyps will be severely affected because they are raised above the seabed. It is also likely that at this benchmark, a significant proportion of the deposited material will be re-suspended. However, if polyps remain buried for more than 24 hours, polyp mortality may occur. The resistance of this biotope to the pressure at the benchmark is assessed as ‘Medium’, resilience as ‘Low’, and sensitivity is assessed as ‘Medium’.

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Smothering and siltation rate changes (heavy) [Show more]

Smothering and siltation rate changes (heavy)

Benchmark. ‘Heavy’ deposition of up to 30 cm of fine material added to the seabed in a single discrete event. Further detail

Evidence

There is limited evidence of the direct effects of smothering on Solenosmilia variabilis. Davies et al. (2015) suggest that Solenosmilia variabilis occurring on Anton Dohrn Seamount is not effective at removing sediment from its polyps. Davies et al. (2015) observed the high accumulation of sediments where there was low current flow. They explained that the accumulation of sediment – although the amount was not quantified – can smother polyps and cause tissue loss, which can expose the coral skeleton and make it vulnerable to fouling.

Direct evidence of the effect of smothering is available for Lophelia pertusa – another cold-water coral species distributed in the North-East Atlantic and is similar to Solenosmilia variabilis. Rogers (1999) suggested that an increase in sedimentation would be likely to interfere with feeding, and therefore also growth. This would alter the balance between growth and bioerosion. However, more recent studies suggest that Lophelia pertusa are highly tolerant to living on minimal resources (food). Observations by Larsson et al. (2013) suggest that Lophelia pertusa is highly tolerant to starvation, with all polyps surviving starvation for 28 weeks (6 months).

Lophelia larvae would also be unable to settle on substrata smothered in soft sediment and, therefore, affect recruitment (Rogers, 1999). In addition, if high sediment loads occur during larval development, e.g. exposure to drill cuttings, all or part of the larval cohort may be lost (Jarnegren et al., 2017).

Larsson & Purser (2011) exposed Lophelia pertusa fragments to 6.5 (0.65 cm) and 19.0 mm (1.90 cm) of fine sediments (<63 µm drill cuttings) for three weeks. Under 6.5 mm conditions, 0.5% of polyps (1) died, whilst 3.7% of polyps died under 19.0 mm. Coral tissue was smothered and polyp mortality occurred where polyps became completely covered by material. Larsson & Purser (2011) concluded that the burial of coral by drill cuttings to the current threshold level used in environmental risk assessment models by the offshore industry (6.3 mm) may result in damage to colonies.

Allers et al. (2013) observed in laboratory experiments that sediment accumulates slowly on Lophelia because of its branching structure and mucus production. Under high sedimentation rates (462 mg/cm2) fragments were not completed covered by sediment, and no detrimental short-term effects from exposure to sediment were observed, despite reduced access to oxygen (as H2S production was detected). These results suggest that Lophelia has some tolerance to low-oxygen and anoxic conditions for short periods. However, in further experiments, the complete burial of coral branches for >24 hrs in anoxic sediment resulted in suffocation. After removal, rinsing and 24 hrs recovery, these polyps were considered dead. Allers et al. (2013) concluded that Lophelia was resilient to sediment-induced oxygen stress, but that resilience is conditional. If polyps are completely covered and smothering is long-lasting (>24 hrs), then the coral will die. Naturally occurring sedimentation rates are less than those used in this study, but sedimentation from anthropogenic activities may be more comparable.

Sensitivity assessment. It can be assumed that the burial of Solenosmilia variabilis in 30 cm of sediment would cause considerable damage to the health of coral colonies. If the sediment were to remain in place for more than 24 hours, polyps mortality is likely to occur. At the pressure benchmark, resistance is assessed as ‘Low’, resilience as ‘Low’, and sensitivity as ‘High’

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Litter [Show more]

Litter

Benchmark. The introduction of man-made objects able to cause physical harm (surface, water column, seafloor or strandline). Further detail

Evidence

Not assessed.

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Not assessed (NA)
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Not assessed (NA)
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Electromagnetic changes [Show more]

Electromagnetic changes

Benchmark. A local electric field of 1 V/m or a local magnetic field of 10 µT. Further detail

Evidence

No evidence was found.

No evidence (NEv)
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Not relevant (NR)
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No evidence (NEv)
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Underwater noise changes [Show more]

Underwater noise changes

Benchmark. MSFD indicator levels (SEL or peak SPL) exceeded for 20% of days in a calendar year. Further detail

Evidence

Species characterizing this habitat do not have hearing perception but vibrations may cause an impact. However, no evidence was found. Therefore, this pressure is assessed as ‘Not relevant’.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Introduction of light or shading [Show more]

Introduction of light or shading

Benchmark. A change in incident light via anthropogenic means. Further detail

Evidence

Discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies occurs at lower bathyal depths at which no light penetrates from the surface. Therefore, discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are unlikely to be impacted by the introduction of light. As such, the biotope will not be affected by changes in the light regime and this pressure is assessed as ‘Not relevant’.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Barrier to species movement [Show more]

Barrier to species movement

Benchmark. A permanent or temporary barrier to species movement over ≥50% of water body width or a 10% change in tidal excursion. Further detail

Evidence

Solenosmilia variabilis has a planktonic larval stage and therefore connectivity and recruitment could be affected by a permanent or temporary barrier to propagule dispersal. However, no evidence is available to assess this pressure. 

No evidence (NEv)
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Not relevant (NR)
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No evidence (NEv)
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Death or injury by collision [Show more]

Death or injury by collision

Benchmark. Injury or mortality from collisions of biota with both static or moving structures due to 0.1% of tidal volume on an average tide, passing through an artificial structure. Further detail

Evidence

Discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are characterized by sessile invertebrates and are unlikely to be affected by an increased risk of collision as defined under the pressure. This pressure is therefore assessed as ‘Not relevant’.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Visual disturbance [Show more]

Visual disturbance

Benchmark. The daily duration of transient visual cues exceeds 10% of the period of site occupancy by the feature. Further detail

Evidence

Discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are characterized by invertebrates that are not reliant on vision, as such, the biotope will not be affected by 'Visual disturbance'. This pressure is assessed as ‘Not relevant’.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Biological Pressures

Use [show more] / [show less] to open/close text displayed

ResistanceResilienceSensitivity
Genetic modification & translocation of indigenous species [Show more]

Genetic modification & translocation of indigenous species

Benchmark. Translocation of indigenous species or the introduction of genetically modified or genetically different populations of indigenous species that may result in changes in the genetic structure of local populations, hybridization, or change in community structure. Further detail

Evidence

This pressure is not relevant to the characterizing species within this biotope.  Therefore, an assessment of ‘Not relevant’ has been given.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Introduction or spread of invasive non-indigenous species [Show more]

Introduction or spread of invasive non-indigenous species

Benchmark. The introduction of one or more invasive non-indigenous species (INIS). Further detail

Evidence

No alien or non-native species are known to compete with Solenosmilia variabilis or other cold-water corals.  As a result, ‘No relevant’ has been recorded.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Introduction of microbial pathogens [Show more]

Introduction of microbial pathogens

Benchmark. The introduction of relevant microbial pathogens or metazoan disease vectors to an area where they are currently not present (e.g. Martelia refringens and Bonamia, Avian influenza virus, viral Haemorrhagic Septicaemia virus). Further detail

Evidence

No information on diseases was found in Solenosmilia variabilis. However, the parasitic foraminiferan Hyrrokkin sarcophaga was reported growing on polyps of Lophelia pertusa in aquaria (Mortensen, 2001). The foraminiferan dissolves a hole in the coral skeleton and invades the polyp. Two polyps became infested but did not seem to be influenced by the infestation (Mortensen, 2001). Any parasitic infestation is likely to reduce the viability of the host, even if only a few or possibly hundreds of polyps were affected but in the absence of additional evidence, an assessment of ‘No evidence has been given.

No evidence (NEv)
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Not relevant (NR)
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No evidence (NEv)
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Removal of target species [Show more]

Removal of target species

Benchmark. Removal of species targeted by fishery, shellfishery or harvesting at a commercial or recreational scale. Further detail

Evidence

The characterizing species associated with ​​​​​​discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies are not commercially targeted. Therefore, this pressure is assessed as ‘Not relevant’.

Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Not relevant (NR)
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Removal of non-target species [Show more]

Removal of non-target species

Benchmark. Removal of features or incidental non-targeted catch (by-catch) through targeted fishery, shellfishery or harvesting at a commercial or recreational scale. Further detail

Evidence

There is strong evidence that Solenosmilia variabilis and other cold-water corals species are significantly impacted by bottom-fishing activities, within the North-East Atlantic and globally. Hall-Spencer et al. (2002) recorded Solenosmilia variabilis bycatch and photographed destroyed dead cold-water coral reefs on the West Ireland continental slope and in Norwegian waters. In addition, Durán Muñoz et al. (2012) found that in Hatton Bank, 0.1 to 25.7 kg of Solenosmilia variabilis was trawled as bycatch during 163 trawls. Extensive damage to Solenosmilia variabilis is also documented across New Zealand (Clark et al., 2019; Williams et al., 2010), with bycatch evidence (Anderson & Clark, 2003), and Tasmanian seamounts (Althaus et al., 2009; Clark & Rowden, 2009; Koslow et al., 2001; Williams et al., 2010). Althaus et al. (2009) reported that bottom-contact trawling on Tasmanian seamounts had reduced the bottom cover of Solenosmilia variabilis by two orders of magnitude over the previous decade.

Sensitivity assessment. Removal of Solenosmilia variabilis through bycatch is detrimental to the survivorship of the biotope. As the characterizing species are sessile, Solenosmilia variabilis is unable to avoid the pressure. Coupled with its fragility, resistance is assessed as ‘None’. The resilience is assessed as ‘Low’ as recovery when the pressure is fully removed is slow (Clark et al., 2019). Therefore, sensitivity is assessed as ‘High’.

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Bibliography

  1. Althaus, F., Williams, A., Schlacher, T., Kloser, R., Green, M., Barker, B., Bax, N., Brodie, P. & Schlacher-Hoenlinger, M., 2009. Impacts of bottom trawling on deep-coral ecosystems of seamounts are long-lasting. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 397, 279-294. DOI https://doi.org/10.3354/meps08248

  2. Anderson, O. F. & Clark, M. R., 2003. Analysis of bycatch in the fishery for orange roughy, Hoplostethus atlanticus, on the South Tasman Rise. Marine and Freshwater Research, 54 (5), 643-652. DOI https://doi.org/10.1071/mf02163

  3. Angiolillo, M., Lorenzo, B.d., Farcomeni, A., Bo, M., Bavestrello, G., Santangelo, G., Cau, A., Mastascusa, V., Cau, A., Sacco, F. & Canese, S., 2015. Distribution and assessment of marine debris in the deep Tyrrhenian Sea (NW Mediterranean Sea, Italy). Marine Pollution Bulletin, 92 (1-2), 149-159. DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2014.12.044

  4. Bahr, A., Doubrawa, M., Titschack, J., Austermann, G., Koutsodendris, A., Nurnberg, D., Albuquerque, A. L., Friedrich, O. & Raddatz, J., 2020. Monsoonal forcing of cold-water coral growth off southeastern Brazil during the past 160 kyr. Biogeosciences, 17 (23), 5883-5908. DOI https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-17-5883-2020

  5. Baker, C.M., Bett, B.J., Billett, D.S.M & Rogers, A.D, 2001. An environmental perspective. In: (Eds. WWF/IUCN). The status of natural resources on the high seas. WWF/IUCN, Gland, Switzerland, 1-67 pp.

  6. Bostock, Helen C., Tracey, Dianne M., Currie, Kim I., Dunbar, Gavin B., Handler, Monica R., Mikaloff Fletcher, Sara E., Smith, Abigail M. & Williams, Michael J. M., 2015. The carbonate mineralogy and distribution of habitat-forming deep-sea corals in the southwest pacific region. Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers, 100, 88-104. DOI http://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsr.2015.02.008

  7. Brooke, S., Ross, S.W., Bane, J.M., Seim, H.E. & Young, C.M., 2013. Temperature tolerance of the deep-sea coral Lophelia pertusa from the southeastern United States. Deep Sea Research Part II: Topical Studies in Oceanography, 92, 240-248. DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsr2.2012.12.001

  8. Burgess, S.N. & Babcock, R.C., 2005. Reproductive ecology of three reef-forming, deep-sea corals in the New Zealand region. In André Freiwald, A. & Roberts, J.M. (eds). Cold-water corals and ecosystems: Springer, pp. 701-713.

  9. Clark, M.R., Bowden, D.A., Rowden, A.A. & Stewart, R., 2019. Little evidence of benthic community resilience to bottom trawling on seamounts after 15 years. Frontiers in Marine Science, 6. DOI https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2019.00063

  10. Clark, M.R., Rowden, A.A., Schlacher, T., Williams, A., Consalvey, M., Stocks, K.I., Rogers, A.D., O’Hara, T.D., White, M., Shank, T.M. & Hall-Spencer, J.M., 2010. The Ecology of Seamounts: Structure, Function, and Human Impacts. Annual Review of Marine Science, 2 (1), 253-278. DOI https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-marine-120308-081109

  11. Clark, Malcolm R. & Rowden, Ashley A., 2009. Effect of deepwater trawling on the macro-invertebrate assemblages of seamounts on the Chatham Rise, New Zealand. Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers, 56 (9), 1540-1554. DOI http://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsr.2009.04.015

  12. Cordes, E., Arnaud-Haond, S., Bergstad, O.A., da Costa Falcão, A.P., Freiwald, A., Roberts, J.M. & Bernal, P., 2016. Chapter 42: Cold-Water Corals. The First Global Intergrated Marine Assessment: World Ocean Assessments, , 1-28 pp.
  13. Davies, A.J., Duineveld, G.C., Lavaleye, M.S., Bergman, M.J., van Haren, H. & Roberts, J.M., 2009. Downwelling and deep-water bottom currents as food supply mechanisms to the cold-water coral Lophelia pertusa (Scleractinia) at the Mingulay Reef complex. Limnology and Oceanography, 54 (2), 620.

  14. Davies, Jaime S., Stewart, Heather A., Narayanaswamy, Bhavani E., Jacobs, Colin, Spicer, John, Golding, Neil & Howell, Kerry L., 2015. Benthic Assemblages of the Anton Dohrn Seamount (NE Atlantic): Defining Deep-Sea Biotopes to Support Habitat Mapping and Management Efforts with a Focus on Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems. PLOS ONE, 10 (5), e0124815. DOI https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0124815

  15. Durán Muñoz, P., Sayago-Gil, M., Patrocinio, T., González-Porto, M., Murillo, F. J., Sacau, M., González, E., Fernández, G. & Gago, A., 2012. Distribution patterns of deep-sea fish and benthic invertebrates from trawlable grounds of the Hatton Bank, north-east Atlantic: effects of deep-sea bottom trawling. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, 92 (7), 1509-1524. DOI https://doi.org/10.1017/S002531541200015X

  16. Fallon, S. J., Thresher, R. E. & Adkins, J., 2014. Age and growth of the cold-water scleractinian Solenosmilia variabilis and its reef on SW Pacific seamounts. Coral Reefs, 33 (1), 31-38. DOI https://doi.org/10.1007/s00338-013-1097-y

  17. Fossa, J. H., Mortensen, P. B. & Furevik, D. M., 2002. The deep-water coral Lophelia pertusa in Norwegian waters: distribution and fishery impacts. Hydrobiologia, 471, 1-12. DOI https://doi.org/10.1023/a:1016504430684

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Citation

This review can be cited as:

Graves, K.P.,, Granö, E., & Last, E.K. 2022. Discrete Solenosmilia variabilis colonies on Atlantic lower bathyal rock and other hard substrata. In Tyler-Walters H. Marine Life Information Network: Biology and Sensitivity Key Information Reviews, [on-line]. Plymouth: Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom. [cited 08-10-2024]. Available from: https://www.marlin.ac.uk/habitat/detail/1235

Last Updated: 03/02/2022