Urbanization leads to a convergence of intense environmental stressors (sedimentation, excessive nutrients, contamination by metals and other pollutants) that negatively impact sensitive foundation species like corals and kelps. These species are essential for marine biodiversity. By identifying the precise aspects of urbanization that impact foundation species, we can develop solutions that increase their success in urban areas (see seascape design).
Foundation species in the city
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Urban corals |
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Urban kelps |
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Urban mangroves |
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Urban marsh grass |
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Urban oysters |
Urban corals
Key Points:
- Sediment pollution in urban areas negatively impacts many corals and may favor dome-shaped growth forms and low reef complexity.
- Some corals colonize artificial structures such as seawalls. However, the suite of coral species living on seawalls may be different from those on natural reefs.
- Coral reefs have been studied in only a handful of tropical cities and more information from other locations is needed to clarify the unifying characteristics of urban corals.
(more coming soon!)
Urban kelps
Key Points:
- Canopy-forming kelps (endemic in many temperate areas) tend to be negatively correlated with urbanization and coastal population density.
- Competition with algal turf may be an important factor.
- Water quality is likely an important driver as well, as kelps are sensitive to sedimentation at multiple points in their life cycle.
- Despite this, urban kelp forests are evident in temperate cities, such as Seattle, Washington, and particularly in areas with a history of seeding and shoreline enhancement.
(more coming soon!)
Urban mangroves
Key Points:
- coming soon!
Urban marsh grass
Key Points:
- coming soon!
Urban oysters
Key Points:
- coming soon!