Enhancing coastal ecosystems
The widespread replacement of algal forests with less complex algal mats threatens the functioning of rocky coastal ecosystems and the services they provide. The EU-funded ECOCYST project is carrying out a comparative assessment of communities found along the Mediterranean rocky coastline associated with different forms of dominant macroalgae that potentially represent alternative stable states, ranging from canopy forests of the genus Cystoseira to species that form algal turf. The project, utilising stable isotope signatures and in situ tracer techniques, assesses the value by measuring diversity, support for the food web and ecosystem functions linked to services such as the nutrient cycle, carbon sequestration and habitat provision. In collaboration with stakeholder networks, the findings help to provide guidance on best practice for the development of management frameworks that enhance coastal ecosystems.