Citation:

Paul, J., J. Nestlerode, AND B. Jarvis. Evaluating the effectiveness of M-AMBI with other biotic indexes in a temperate estuary. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN. Elsevier Science Ltd, New York, NY, 193:10, (2023). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115194

Impact/Purpose:

We present an evaluation of estuarine benthic ecological condition indicators along a transect of Pensacola Bay estuary spanning a salinity gradient and across sites known to experience density stratification and seasonal hypoxia in the bottom layer. This manuscript should be of interest to scientists and managers from across North America, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico region, concerned with monitoring and management of estuarine habitats. The results of this study inform the future use and application of various taxonomic-based benthic indicator tools for describing ecosystem condition.

Description:

Need for a scalable and widely applicable index has been increasingly important. This study evaluates the applicability of the M-AMBI, a potential comprehensive index, at small spatial scales. M-AMBI was compared to regional indices (EMAP-E and GOM B-IBI), assessing response to natural environmental gradients and low oxygen stress. Results indicate poor agreement between indices with M-AMBI and GOM B-IBI showing positive correlation but significant disagreement in habitat condition. EMAP-E had no agreement. Indices showed similar patterns of better habitat scores in higher salinities. M-AMBI also showed a negative relationship with sediment organic matter and total nitrogen. DO influenced all indices with M-AMBI the most sensitive. However, mismatches between DO and index score were observed further calibration may be needed before adoption into programs. Overall, the M-AMBI demonstrates potential at smaller, local scales, but additional studies are needed to validate its performance in different coastal environments and under different conditions.

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