The effect of a harmful algal bloom (Karenia selliformis) on the benthic invertebrate community and the sea otter (Enhydra lutris) diet in eastern Hokkaido.

ABSTRACT: In recent decades, the locally extinct sea otter (Enhydra lutris lutris) has been recolonizing the coast of eastern Hokkaido. Their diet includes benthic invertebrates such as bivalves, sea urchins, snails, and chitons. In the fall of 2021, a harmful algal bloom (HAB) of Karenia selliformis occurred across Hokkaido's northern and eastern coasts, leading to a massive mortality of sea urchins. This dinoflagellate produces a neurotoxin (gymnodimine) implicated in shellfish poisoning. To determine the effect of the HAB on the marine community, we conducted benthic surveys using SCUBA and visually monitored the prey items of the sea otters in the affected area from 2020 to 2023. Following the HAB, we observed an 82% decrease in benthic sea urchin density (number m2), leading to their complete a

SUBMITTER: Johnstone J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11581392 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature