Meeting Abstract

P1.33  Sunday, Jan. 4  Effects of multiple abiotic stressors on microcrustaceans, Gammarus spp. and Artemia spp., in light of ozone depletion ENG, AE*; CONNELLY, SJ; Rochester Institute of Technology; Rochester Institute of Technology Snowman6687@aol.com

Many aquatic ecosystems, including lakes, ponds, marsh, and inter-tidal regions, are very clear waters, which expose the organisms living in these waters to high levels of solar light, including UV radiation. These systems are especially susceptible to climate change, as they are directly influenced by atmospheric (UV) and terrestrial (runoff and anthropogenic inputs) ecosystem components. UV has been shown to play a critical role in these systems and have significant effects on aquatic organisms. Small freshwater organisms, such as microinvertebrate crustaceans (zooplankton) that inhabit these systems, are highly susceptible to damage from any environmental stresses, particularly UV. This project investigates the comparative effects of variable UVA and salinity on two related microcrustaceans from marine and freshwater systems, Gammarus spp. and Artemia spp. Reproductive success of both species is correlated to both UVA exposure during maternal development and overall salinity of the environment. Understanding the interaction of abiotic stressors on aquatic invertebrates is critical during this time of rapid environmental changes. Species likely must develop adaptable fitness across their populations in order to survive these highly variable environmental factors. This will lead to new ecological and evolutionary methodologies when considering species survival beyond their current habitat.