The Marine Life Information Network

Temperature increase (local)

Benchmark. A 5°C increase in temperature for one month, or 2°C for one year. Further detail

Evidence

Deeper burrowing oligochaetes are protected from fluctuations in temperature by the overlaying sediments which dampen changes if poorly drained (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982).  Bamber & Spencer (1984) observed that Tubificoides were dominant species in an area affected by thermal discharge in the River Medway estuary.  Sediments were exposed to the passage of a temperature front of approximately 10^oC between heated effluent and estuarine waters during the tidal cycles.

Increased temperature was found to trigger the onset of reproduction in Baltidrilus costata (studied as Tubifex costatus) in the Thames (Birtwell & Arthur, 1980). This effect was non-lethal and may be beneficial to populations.

Sensitivity assessment. The dominance of Tubificoides spp. when exposed to a heated effluent suggests that this genus would be highly resistant to an increase in temperature at the pressure benchmark. Biotope resistance is therefore assessed as ‘High’ and resilience as ‘High’ (by default), so that the biotope is considered to be ‘Not sensitive’.

Temperature decrease (local)

Benchmark. A 5°C decrease in temperature for one month, or 2°C for one year. Further detail

Evidence

Most littoral oligochaetes, including tubificids and enchytraeids, can survive freezing temperatures and can survive in frozen sediments (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982). Tubificoides benedii (studied as Peloscolex benedeni) recovered after being frozen for several tides in a mudflat (Linke, 1939).

Sensitivity assessment. Based on freezing tolerances of Tubificoides benedii (Linke, 1939) biotope resistance is assessed as ‘High’ to decreases in temperature. Resilience is assessed as ‘High’ (by default) and the biotope is therefore considered to be ‘Not sensitive’.

Salinity increase (local)

Benchmark. A increase in one MNCR salinity category above the usual range of the biotope or habitat. Further detail

Evidence

This biotope is present in variable (18-35 ppt) salinity habitats (JNCC, 2015), a change at the pressure benchmark therefore represents a change from variable to full salinity (30-35 ppt). Oligochaete dominated biotopes are recorded from a range of salinity regimes from full (LS.LSa.MoSa.Ol; LS.LSa.MoSa.Ol.FS), variable (SS.SMu.SMuVS.CapTubi) to low (SS.SMu.SMuVS.LhofTtub) habitats (JNCC,2015).

The assessed biotope occurs as a sub-biotope of LS.LSa.MoSa.OL., a very similar sub-biotope variant that occurs in full salinity is also recognised  (LS.LSa.MoSa.Ol.FS)  It is therefore considered that an increase in salinity at the pressure benchmark would result in biotope reclassification to LS.LSa.MoSa.Ol.FS.  

Sensitivity assessment. A reduction in salinity at the pressure benchmark may lead to species replacement and biotope reclassification to LS.LSa.MoSa.Ol.FS. Biotope resistance is therefore assessed as ‘None’ and resilience as ‘High’ (following a return to usual habitat conditions), so that biotope sensitivity is assessed as ‘Medium’.

Salinity decrease (local)

Benchmark. A decrease in one MNCR salinity category above the usual range of the biotope or habitat. Further detail

Evidence

This biotope is present in variable (18-35 ppt) salinity habitats (JNCC, 2015); a change at the pressure benchmark therefore represents a change from variable to low (<18 ppt) salinity. Oligochaete dominated biotopes are recorded from a range of salinity regimes from full (LS.LSa.MoSa.Ol; LS.LSa.MoSa.Ol.FS), variable (SS.SMu.SMuVS.CapTubi) reduced (SS.SMu.SMuVS.CapTubi; LS.LMu.UEst.Tben ) and low (SS.SMu.SMuVS.LhofTtub) habitats (JNCC,2015). In very low salinities from <15 to 0 ‰ species such as Limnodrilus spp. and Tubifex tubifex are found (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982).  It is therefore considered that a decrease in salinity at the pressure benchmark would result in replacement by oligochaete species more tolerant of lower salinities such as Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri and Tubifex tubifex that characterize the low salinity biotope SS.SMu.SMuVS.LhofTtub. This would result in the loss of the characterizing biotope. Numerous studies suggest that Baltidrilus costata tolerates a wide range of salinities from 1‰ to 28‰ (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982 and references therein), suggesting that this species is likely to still be present in the biotope.

Sensitivity assessment. A reduction in salinity at the pressure benchmark may lead to species replacement and biotope reclassification to SS.SMu.SMuVS.LhofTtub. Biotope resistance is therefore assessed as ‘Low’ and resilience as ‘High’ (following a return to usual habitat conditions), so that biotope sensitivity is assessed as ‘Low’.

Water flow (tidal current) changes (local)

Benchmark. A change in peak mean spring bed flow velocity of between 0.1 m/s to 0.2 m/s for more than one year. Further detail

Evidence

This biotope occurs in estuaries sheltered from wave action. Water flow (which removes fine sediments) rather than wave action is a key factor maintaining the clean, mobile sand and gravels, with little mud content, that characterize this biotope. This biotope is found in areas near channels of very fast flowing river mouths where tidal streams are reported as weak (<0.5 m/s)  (JNCC, 2015).  Increases and decreases in water velocity may lead to increased erosion or deposition. The associated pressures alteration to sediment type and siltation are assessed separately.  Experimental increases in near-bed current velocity were achieved over intertidal sandflats by placing flumes on the sediment to accelerate water flows (Zuhlke & Reise, 1994). The increased flow led to the erosion of up to 4 cm depth of surface sediments.  No significant effect was observed on the abundance of Capitella capitata and numbers of Tubificoides benedii and Tubificoides pseudogaster were unaffected, as they probably avoided suspension by burrowing deeper into sediments. This was demonstrated by the decreased abundance of oligochaetes in the 0-1 cm depth layer and increased abundance of oligochaetes deeper in sediments (Zuhlke & Reise, 1994).  A single storm event had a similar result with decreased abundance of oligochaetes in surficial layers, coupled with an increase in deeper sediments (Zuhlke & Reise, 1994). Although Tubificoides spp. can resist short-term disturbances their absence from sediments exposed to higher levels of disturbance indicate that they would be sensitive to longer-term changes in sediment mobility (Zuhlke & Reise, 1994). Birtwell & Arthur (1980) reported seasonal changes in abundance in Baltidrilus costata (as Tubifex costatus), which they attributed to the erosion of the upper sediment layers caused by high river flows and wave action.

In the turbid waters of estuaries, a reduction in water flow is likely to result in a significant increase in siltation increasing the silt and clay content of the substratum. Decreases in water flow with increased siltation of fine particles may alter the physical character of this habitat type as it is already found in sheltered areas. The presence of trestles (for off-bottom oyster cultivation) arranged in parallel rows in the intertidal area (Goulletquer & Héral, 1997) reduced the strength of tidal currents (Nugues et al., 1996) and was observed to limit the dispersal of pseudofaeces and faeces in the water column and thus increase the natural sedimentation process by several orders of magnitude (Ottman & Sornin, 1985, summarised in Bouchet & Sauriau, 2008). The characteristic oligochaetes can live buried deeply.  Hence, in depositional environments, with low water flows (based on habitat preferences) and low oxygenation, they are probably 'Not sensitive' to decreases in water flow.  However, deposition and increases in mud content are likely to result in the reclassification of the biotope.

Sensitivity assessment. Where increased or decreased water flows alter the sediment type this could lead reclassification of the biotope. An increase in water flow at the pressure benchmark (0.1-0.2 m/s) may lead to increased erosion of sands, disturb the upper layers, increase the coarse sediment content, and reduce the already low abundance of fauna. However, mobile sands occur in stronger flows than recorded for this biotope (JNCC, 2015).  Notably, a reduction in water flow is likely to result in a higher mud fraction and reclassification of the biotope, e.g. to LS.LMu.UEst.Tben.  Therefore, biotope resistance is assessed as ‘Low’.  Resilience is probably ‘High’ (following the restoration of usual conditions) and sensitivity is assessed as ‘Low’. 

Emergence regime changes

Benchmark.  1) A change in the time covered or not covered by the sea for a period of ≥1 year or 2) an increase in relative sea level or decrease in high water level for ≥1 year. Further detail

Evidence

This biotope is found on the lower shore, mid shore and upper shore (JNCC, 2015). As habitats from the sublittoral to the supralittoral are habitable for tubificds and enchytraeid oligochaetes (Giere, 1993) the biotope is not considered sensitive to changes in emergence that alter emergence periods. The characterizing species are found in subtidal biotopes and a change in tidal regime that led to this biotope becoming permanently submerged would result in biotope reclassification to a biotope such as SS.SMu.SMuVS.OlVS (oligochaetes in variable or reduced salinity infralittoral muddy sediment ).

Sensitivity assessment. The biotope based on the biological assemblage is considered to have ‘High’ resistance to changes in emergence and ‘High’ resilience (by default), so that the biotope is considered to be ‘not sensitive to this pressure at the benchmark. 

Wave exposure changes (local)

Benchmark. A change in near shore significant wave height of >3% but <5% for more than one year. Further detail

Evidence

This biotope occurs in habitats that are extremely sheltered from wave action (JNCC, 2015). Disturbance of sediment by waves may reduce oligochaete abundance (Giere, 1977) and oligochaetes may be absent from very wave exposed shores (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982 and references therein).  As this biotope in areas that are extrmely sheltered but subject to tidal flows  this is considered to indicate that the biotope would tolerate the increased sediment disturbance and re-suspension that would result from the small increase in wave exposure at the pressure benchmark. Resistance is therefore assessed as ‘High’ and resilience as ‘High’ by default and the biotope is considered to be ‘Not sensitive’. An increase in wave exposure greater than the pressure benchmark would be likely to re-suspend sediments and increase erosion altering sediment type. Some oligochaete dominated biotopes occur in areas with mobile sediments and it is possible the biotope would revert to one of these. 

Transition elements & organo-metal contamination

Benchmark. Exposure of marine species or habitat to one or more relevant contaminants via uncontrolled releases or incidental spills. Further detail

Evidence

This pressure is Not assessed but evidence is presented where available.

Contamination at levels exceeding the pressure benchmark may have negative effects. A 2-year microcosm experiment was undertaken to investigate the impact of copper on the benthic fauna of the lower Tyne Estuary (UK) by Hall & Frid (1995). During a 1-year simulated contamination period, 1 mg l−1copper was supplied at 2-weekly 30% water changes, at the end of which the sediment concentrations of copper in contaminated microcosms reached 411 μg g−1. Toxicity effects reduced populations of the four dominant taxa including Tubificoides spp.). When copper dosage was ceased and clean water supplied, sediment copper concentrations fell by 50% in less than 4 days, but faunal recovery took up to 1 year, with the pattern varying between taxa. Since the copper leach rate was so rapid it is concluded that after remediation, contaminated sediments show rapid improvements in chemical concentrations, but faunal recovery may be delayed taking up to a year.

Rygg (1985) classified Tubificoides spp as highly tolerant species, common at the most copper polluted stations (>200 mg Kg-1) in Norwegian fjords.

Hydrocarbon & PAH contamination

Benchmark. Exposure of marine species or habitat to one or more relevant contaminants via uncontrolled releases or incidental spills. Further detail

Evidence

This pressure is Not assessed but evidence is presented where available.

In Finland in oligohaline inland waters near an oil refinery, Baltidrilus costata (as Tubifex costatus) appeared to be sensitive to oil pollution and had completely disappeared from sediments exposed to pollution and did not recolonize during a four year post pollution period (Leppäkoski & Lindström, 1978). Tubificoides benedii appears to be more tolerant and was found in UK waters near oil refineries as the sole surviving member of the macrofauna. Populations were however apparently reduced and the worms were absent from areas of oil discharge and other studies indicate sensitivity to oiling (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982, references therein).

Synthetic compound contamination

Benchmark. Exposure of marine species or habitat to one or more relevant contaminants via uncontrolled releases or incidental spills. Further detail

Evidence

This pressure is Not assessed but evidence is presented where available.

Radionuclide contamination

Benchmark. An increase in 10µGy/h above background levels. Further detail

Evidence

No evidence was found for radionuclide uptake by marine oligochaetes.

Introduction of other substances

Benchmark. Exposure of marine species or habitat to one or more relevant contaminants via uncontrolled releases or incidental spills. Further detail

Evidence

This pressure is Not assessed.

De-oxygenation

Benchmark. Exposure to dissolved oxygen concentration of less than or equal to 2 mg/l for one week (a change from WFD poor status to bad status). Further detail

Evidence

Oligochaete species vary in their tolerance of hypoxia and associated high sulphide levels. Most enchytraeids and naidids are sensitive to hydrogen sulphide and hypoxia while tubificids are often more resistant (Giere, 2006).

Tubificoides benedii has a high capacity to tolerate anoxic conditions, its extreme oxygen tolerance  is based on an unusually low respiration rate (Giere et al., 1999).  Respiration rates of Tubificoides benedii measured at various oxygen concentrations showed that aerobic respiration is maintained even at very low oxygen concentrations (Giere et al., 1999). Birtwell & Arthur (1980) showed that Tubificoides benedii could tolerate anoxia in the Thames Estuary (LT₅₀ = 58.8 hours at 20^oC, 26.6 hours at 25^oC  and 17.8 hours at 30^oC in experiments with worms acclimated to 20^oC.)

Tolerance experiments by Gamenick et al.  (1996) found that Baltidrilus costata  (as Heterochaeta costata) was not affected by hypoxic conditions for at least 3 days but the addition of sulphide 91.96 mmol/litre) caused mortality after 1 day (Gamenick et al., 1996)

Sensitivity assessments. As this biotope is found in intertidal habitats oxygen levels will be recharged during the tidal cycle lowering exposure to this pressure for worms that migrate to surface layers. Based on the reported tolerances for anoxia, biotope resistance is assessed as ‘High’ based on Tubifioides benedii, resilience is assessed as ‘High’ (by default) and the biotope is considered to be ‘Not sensitive’.

Nutrient enrichment

Benchmark. Compliance with WFD criteria for good status. Further detail

Evidence

In nutrient enriched tidal sediments oligochaetes can dominate assemblages (Gray, 1971; Leppäkoski, 1975; Birtwell & Arthur, 1980). Green algae such as Ulva spp. may form mats on the surface of the mud during the summer months, particularly if nutrient enrichment occurs.

Sensitivity assessment. As the benchmark is relatively protective and would not lead to blooms of Ulva spp. (although green algae may be present on the surface layers of sediments in the summer), biotope resistance is assessed as ‘High’, resilience is assessed as ‘High’ and the biotopeis considered to be ‘Not sensitive’.

Organic enrichment

Benchmark. A deposit of 100 gC/m²/yr. Further detail

Evidence

Tubificoides benedii and Baltidrilus costatus are both very tolerant of high levels of organic enrichment and often dominate sediments where sewage has been discharged or other forms of organic enrichment have occurred (Pearson & Rosenberg, 1978; Gray, 1971; McLusky et al., 1980). Their tolerance for organic enrichment is attributed to their adaptation to live in and feed on enriched organic deposits (Pearson & Rosenberg, 1978) and their high population densities in such areas is enhanced by the lack of predation and competition. Tubificoides benedii are abundant in mussel beds (mussel relaying may be the source of smothering) which  has been attributed to their tolerance of organically rich deoxygenated sediment (Commito & Boncavage, 1989). Tubificoides benedii has also been found in elevated abundances in areas of organic enrichment around fish farms (Haskoning, 2006).

Sensitivity assessment. Based on the high tolerance of the characterizing species Tubificoides benedii for organic enrichment, biotope resistance is assessed as ‘High’ and resilience as ‘High’, so that the biotope is considered to be Not sensitive’.

Physical loss (to land or freshwater habitat)

Benchmark. A permanent loss of existing saline habitat within the site. Further detail

Evidence

All marine habitats and benthic species are considered to have a resistance of ‘None’ to this pressure and to be unable to recover from a permanent loss of habitat (resilience is ‘Very Low’).  Sensitivity within the direct spatial footprint of this pressure is therefore ‘High’.  Although no specific evidence is described confidence in this assessment is ‘High’, due to the incontrovertible nature of this pressure.

Physical change (to another seabed type)

Benchmark. Permanent change from sedimentary or soft rock substrata to hard rock or artificial substrata or vice-versa. Further detail

Evidence

A change to an artificial or natural hard substratum would significantly alter the habitat type. The oligochaetes, nemerteans and nematodes that characterize this biotope are infaunal species living within sediment. If the changed habitat contained pockets of sediment these species may still be present but the habitat will be unsuitable overall and the biotope will be reclassified. The presence of hard substratum is likely to support colonization by filamentous green and red algae tolerant of variable salinity.

Sensitivity assessment. As a change to a hard substratum would result in biotope reclassification, resistance to this pressure is assessed as ‘None’ and resilience as ‘Very Low’ (change at the pressure benchmark is permanent), sensitivity is therefore assessed as ‘High’.

Sensitivity assessment. Based on the loss of the biotope, resistance is assessed as ‘None’, recovery is assessed as ‘Very low’ (as the change at the pressure benchmark is permanent and sensitivity is assessed as ‘High’.

Physical change (to another sediment type)

Benchmark. Permanent change in one Folk class (based on UK SeaMap simplified classification). Further detail

Evidence

This biotope is found in areas where strong river flows maintain clean, coarse (pebble, sand and gravel) mobile sediments (JNCC, 2015). The sediment type present reflects the habitats in which this biotope occurs where strong river flows remove finer particles. Oligochaete dominated biotopes occur in a range of sedimentary habitats, where variable or reduced salinity prevent a more species-rich assemblage developing. Although the lack of identification to species level has hampered understanding of species preferences (and the species that typically occur in this biotope) it is clear that at least some species exhibit strong preferences for sediment type. Tubificoides heterochaetusfor example, sampled in South Carolina salt marsh and tidal inlets was found in significantly greater abundances in coarser sediments where silt and clay fractions were lower (Gillett et al., 2007).

A change in sediment type (without a change in salinity) may therefore lead to species replacement, although an oligochaete dominated biotope may remain.Tubificoides benedii (studied as Peloscolex benedeni) are found in a range of substratum types from sandy mixed habitats, fine sands and coarse sands (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982 and references therein). Similarly, Baltidrilus costata (asTubifex costatus) is found in mud/silts (Giere & Pfannkuche,1982 and references therein). Giere & Pfannkuche (1982) suggest that factors that correlate to substratum types such as organic matter availability, size and shape of the intertstitial space between grains, the level of sediment disturbance and water content, rather than the sediment type alone are the key factors influencing distribution.

Sensitivity assessment.  A change in sediment type is likely to result in biotope reclassification (although a similar infaunal assemblage may be present). Based on the loss of the biotope as classified, resistance is assessed as ‘None’ and resilience as ‘Very Low’ (as the change at the pressure benchmark is permanent). Sensitivity is therefore assessed as ‘High’.

Habitat structure changes - removal of substratum (extraction)

Benchmark. The extraction of substratum to 30 cm (where substratum includes sediments and soft rock but excludes hard bedrock). Further detail

Evidence

Sedimentary communities are likely to be highly intolerant of substratum removal, which will lead to partial or complete defaunation, expose underlying sediment which may be anoxic and/or of a different character or bedrock and lead to changes in the topography of the area (Dernie et al., 2003). Any remaining species, given their new position at the sediment / water interface, may be exposed to conditions to which they are not suited, Removal of 30 cm of surface sediment will remove the oligochaete community and other species present in the biotope. Recovery of the biological assemblage may take place before the original topography is restored, if the exposed, underlying sediments are similar to those that were removed. Hydrodynamics and sedimentology (mobility and supply) influence the recovery of soft sediment habitats (Van Hoey et al. 2008).

Sensitivity assessment. Extraction of 30 cm of sediment will remove the characterizing biological component of the biotope. Resistance is assessed as ‘None’ and biotope resilience is assessed as ’High’.  Biotope sensitivity is therefore ‘Medium’. 

Abrasion / disturbance of the surface of the substratum or seabed

Benchmark. Damage to surface features (e.g. species and physical structures within the habitat). Further detail

Evidence

Tubificoides benedii can be relatively deeply buried and could avoid direct exposure to abrasion although sediment disturbance and compaction could damage these soft-bodied species and oligochaetes in general are not found in high abundances in sediments with high levels of disturbance from wave action.

Experimental studies on crab-tiling impacts have found that densities of Tubificoides benedii and Tubificoides pseudogaster were higher in non-trampled plots (Sheehan et al. 2010), indicating that these oligochaetes have some sensitivity to trampling. Whomersley et al., (2010) conducted experimental raking on intertidal mudflats at two sites (Creeksea- Crouch estuary England and Blackness- lower Forth estuary, Scotland), where Tubificoides benedii were dominant species. For each treatment 1 m² plots were raked twice to a depth of 4cm (using a garden rake). Plots were subject to either low intensity treatments (raking every four weeks) or high (raking every two weeks). The experiment was carried out for 10 months at Creeksea and a year at Blackness. The high and low raking treatments appeared to have little effect on Tubificoides benedii (Whomersley et al., 2010).

Sensitivity assessment. The experiments by Whomersley et al. (2010), suggest that disturbance of the surficial layers has little effect on Tubificoides benedii. Many individuals are likely to be buried more deeply and can migrate to the surface following disturbance, so that little impact is observed through sampling. Abrasion with associated compaction (as in trampling) may have a greater impact. Resistance is therefore assessed as ‘medium’ and resilience as ‘High’ (by default) so that sensitivity is assessed as ‘Low’.

Penetration or disturbance of the substratum subsurface

Benchmark. Damage to sub-surface features (e.g. species and physical structures within the habitat). Further detail

Evidence

Tubificoides benedii can be relatively deeply buried and could avoid direct exposure to penetration and disturbance of upper sediment layers although sediment disturbance and compaction could damage these soft-bodied species and oligochaetes in general are not found in high abundances in sediments with high levels of disturbance from wave action.

Whomersley et al., (2010) conducted experimental raking on intertidal mudflats at two sites (Creeksea- Crouch estuary England and Blackness- lower Forth estuary, Scotland), where Tubificoides benedii were dominant species. For each treatment 1 m² plots were raked twice to a depth of 4cm (using a garden rake). Plots were subject to either low intensity treatments (raking every four weeks) or high (raking every two weeks). The experiment was carried out for 10 months at Creeksea and a year at Blackness. The high and low raking treatments appeared to have little effect on Tubificoides benedii (Whomersley et al., 2010). These results are supported by observations that two experimental passes of an oyster dredge that removed the sediment to a depth of between 15-20 cm did not significantly affect Tubifcoides benedii (EMU, 1992).

Sensitivity assessment. The experiments by Whomersley et al., (2010) and EMU (1992), suggest that penetration and disturbance of the upper surface  has little effect on Tubificoides benedii. Many individuals are likely to be buried more deeply and can migrate to the surface following disturbance, so that little impact is observed through sampling. Resistance is therefore assessed as ‘Medium’ and resilience as ‘High’ so that sensitivity is assessed as ‘Low’.

Changes in suspended solids (water clarity)

Benchmark. A change in one rank on the WFD (Water Framework Directive) scale e.g. from clear to intermediate for one year. Further detail

Evidence

Estuaries where this biotope is found form can be naturally turbid systems due to sediment resuspension by wave and tide action and inputs of  high levels of suspended solids, transported by rivers. The level of suspended solids depends on a variety of factors including: substrate type, river flow, tidal height, water velocity, wind reach/speed and depth of water mixing (Parr et al. 1998). Transported sediment including silt and organic detritus can become trapped in the system where the river water meets seawater. Dissolved material in the river water flocculates when it comes into contact with the salt wedge pushing its way upriver. These processes result in elevated levels of suspended particulate material with peak levels confined to a discrete region (the turbidity maximum), usually in the upper-middle reaches, which moves up and down the estuary with the tidal ebb and flow. Intertidal mudflats depend on the supply of particulate matter to maintain mudflats and the associated biological community is exposed naturally to relatively high levels of turbidity/particulate matter. 

Sensitivity assessment. The biological assemblage characterizing this biotope is infaunal and consists of sub-surface deposit feeders. Increased suspended solids are unlikely to have an impact and resistance is assessed as ‘High’ and resilience as ‘High’, so that the biotope is considered to be ‘not sensitive’. A reduction in suspended solids may reduce deposition and supply of organic matter, resistance to a decrease is therefore assessed as ‘Medium’ as a shift between deposition and erosion could result in the net loss of surficial sediments. A reduction in organic matter as suspended solids could also reduce production within this biotope. Resistance is assessed as ‘Medium’ as over a year the impact may be relatively small and resistance is assessed as ‘High’, following restoration of usual conditions. Biotope sensitivity is therefore assessed as ‘Low’. 

Smothering and siltation rate changes (light)

Benchmark. ‘Light’ deposition of up to 5 cm of fine material added to the seabed in a single discrete event. Further detail

Evidence

Oligochaete dominated biotope may occur in sheltered environments such as mudflats that are, in general, accreting environments meaning that deposition rather than erosion is the dominant process, this means that the assemblages present (primarily deposit feeders) are adapted to natural levels of siltation through life history traits and can withstand burial (by repositioning in sediment or similarly extending tubes or feeding and respiration structures above the sediment surface). At low levels of siltation the high bioturbatory nature of mudflat organisms decreases sensitivity to effects (Elliott et al. 1998) as sediment turnover rates are relatively rapid. Tubificoides live relatively deeply buried and can tolerate periods of low oxygen that may occur following the deposition of a fine layer of sediment. In addition the presence of this species in areas experiencing deposition, such as estuaries, indicate that this species is likely to have a high tolerance to siltation events. Tubificoides spp. showed some recovery through vertical migration following the placement of a sediment overburden 6cm thick on top of sediments (Bolam, 2011).

Whomersley et al., (2010) experimentally buried plots on intertidal mudflats at two sites (Creeksea- Crouch Estuary, England and Blackness- lower Forth Estuary, Scotland), where Tubificoides benedii were dominant species. For each treatment anoxic mud was spread evenly to a depth of 4cm on top of each treatment plot. The mud was taken from areas adjacent to the plots, and was obtained by scraping off the surface oxic layer and digging up the underlying mud from approximately 20cm depth. Plots were subject to either low intensity treatments (burial every four weeks) or high (burial every two weeks). The experiment was carried out for 10 months at Creeksea and a year at Blackness. At Creeksea numbers of Tubificoides benedii increased in both burial treatments until the third month (high burial) and sixth month (low burial). At Blackness increased numbers of Tubificoides benedii  were found in both burial treatments after one month (Whomersley et al., 2010)..

Sensitivity assessment. The characterizing species Tubificoides benedii is considered to be able to survive under a deposit of fine grained sediment up to 5cm thick and to burrow and reposition within this. The assessment is supported by the burial experiments conducted by Whomersley et al. (2010). As this biotope occurs ion areas with water flows that maintain clean sands and remove fine particles it is likely that even cohesive sediments will be removed, mitigating the effect of the deposit.

Smothering and siltation rate changes (heavy)

Benchmark. ‘Heavy’ deposition of up to 30 cm of fine material added to the seabed in a single discrete event. Further detail

Evidence

The pressure benchmark (30 cm deposit) represents a significant burial event although thethe deposit may be rapidly removed by water flows, although removal and restoration of habitat conditions may be delayed for upper shore examples. Some impacts on Tubificoides benedii and other characterizing oligochaetes may occur and it is considered unlikely that signficiant numbers of the population could reposition, based on (Bolam, 2011). Placement of the deposit will therefore result in a defaunated habitat until the deposit is recolonized. Biotope resistance is therefore assessed as 'Low' as some removal of deposit and vertical migration through the deposit may occur. Resilience is assessed as 'High' as migration and recolonization of oligochaetes is likely to occur within two years, biotope sensitivity is therefore assessed as 'Low'.

Litter

Benchmark. The introduction of man-made objects able to cause physical harm (surface, water column, seafloor or strandline). Further detail

Evidence

Not assessed.

Electromagnetic changes

Benchmark. A local electric field of 1 V/m or a local magnetic field of 10 µT. Further detail

Evidence

A number of studies have investigated the effects of electromagnetic fields on terrestrial oligochaetes, notable earthworms. Some negative effects have been observed e.g. Tkalec et al., 2013. However no evidence was found to support an assessment at the pressure benchmark for the marine oligochaetes that characterize this biotope.

Underwater noise changes

Benchmark. MSFD indicator levels (SEL or peak SPL) exceeded for 20% of days in a calendar year. Further detail

Evidence

Not relevant.

Introduction of light or shading

Benchmark. A change in incident light via anthropogenic means. Further detail

Evidence

No evidence was found to assess this pressure. Studentowicz (1936) found that the enchytraeid oligochaete  Enchytraeus albidus, retracted from light, although the worms accumulated at the surface even when illuminated to avoid low oxygen and hydrogen sulpfide.  Giere and Pfannkuche (1982) considered that other enchytraeids and tubificids are likely to react in the same way. As the biological assemblage occurs within the sediment and can be deeply buried (to 10cm or more) this pressure is considered ‘Not relevant’. 

Barrier to species movement

Benchmark. A permanent or temporary barrier to species movement over ≥50% of water body width or a 10% change in tidal excursion. Further detail

Evidence

As the tubificid oligochaetes that characterize this biotope have benthic dispersal strategies (via egg cocoons laid on the surface, Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982), water transport is not a key method of dispersal over wide distances, as it is for some marine invertebrates that produce pelagic larvae.  The biotope (based on the biological assemblage) is therefore considered to have ‘High’ resistance to the presence of barriers that lead to a reduction in tidal excursion, resilience is assessed as ‘High’ (by default) and the biotope is considered to be ‘not sensitive’.

Death or injury by collision

Benchmark. Injury or mortality from collisions of biota with both static or moving structures due to 0.1% of tidal volume on an average tide, passing through an artificial structure. Further detail

Evidence

Not relevant’ to seabed habitats.  NB. Collision by grounding vessels is addressed under ‘surface abrasion.

Visual disturbance

Benchmark. The daily duration of transient visual cues exceeds 10% of the period of site occupancy by the feature. Further detail

Evidence

Most aquatic oligochaetes have no eyes although a few have simple ocelli (eyspots) which are light receptors. Visual disturbance is not considered relevant to this biotope.

Genetic modification & translocation of indigenous species

Benchmark. Translocation of indigenous species or the introduction of genetically modified or genetically different populations of indigenous species that may result in changes in the genetic structure of local populations, hybridization, or change in community structure. Further detail

Evidence

Key characterizing species within this biotope are not cultivated or translocated. This pressure is therefore considered ‘Not relevant’ to this biotope group.

Introduction or spread of invasive non-indigenous species

Benchmark. The introduction of one or more invasive non-indigenous species (INIS). Further detail

Evidence

The mobility of the sediment, coupled with the variable salinity may prevent colonization by most non-indigenous species. No examples were found. The polychaete Marenzellaria viridis has become established in estuaries in Europe but a recent paper on its impacts where Tubificoides were abundant did not report on oligochaete impacts (Delefosse et al., 2012).

Sensitivity assessment. As the biotope characteristics are likely to limit colonization of this biotope, resistance is assessed as 'High', resilience as 'High' and the biotope is conisdered to be be 'Not sensitive'. This assessment may need revising based on future surveys or new species colonizing the UK.

Introduction of microbial pathogens

Benchmark. The introduction of relevant microbial pathogens or metazoan disease vectors to an area where they are currently not present (e.g. Martelia refringens and Bonamia, Avian influenza virus, viral Haemorrhagic Septicaemia virus). Further detail

Evidence

Marine oligochaetes host numerous protozoan parasites without apparent pathogenic effects even at high infestation levels  (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982 and references therein)

Sensitivity assessment. Based on the lack of evidence for mass mortalities in oligochaetes from microbial pathogens resistance is assessed as ‘High’ and resilience as ‘High’, by default, so that the biotope is assessed as ‘Not sensitive’.

Removal of target species

Benchmark. Removal of species targeted by fishery, shellfishery or harvesting at a commercial or recreational scale. Further detail

Evidence

No species within the biotope are targeted by commercial or recreational fishers or harvesters. This pressure is therefore considered ‘Not relevant’.

Removal of non-target species

Benchmark. Removal of features or incidental non-targeted catch (by-catch) through targeted fishery, shellfishery or harvesting at a commercial or recreational scale. Further detail

Evidence

Incidental removal of the characterizing species would alter the character of the biotope and the delivery of ecosystem services such as secondary production and bioturbation. Populations of oligochaetes provide food for macroinvertebrates fish and birds. For example up to 67% of flounder and plaice stomachs examined from the Medway estuary (UK) (Van den Broek, 1978) contained the remains of Tubificoides benedii (studied as Peloscolex benedeni) and shrimps which in turn support higher trophic levels (predatory birds and fish). For some migratory birds the characterizing species Tubificoides benedii can form an important part of the diet during winter (Bagheri & McLusky, 1984). Polychaetes and crustaceans are also predators of oligochaetes and may significantly reduce numbers (Giere & Pfannkuche, 1982 and references therein). The loss of the oligochaete population could, therefore,  impact other trophic levels.

Sensitivity assessment. Removal of the characterizing species would alter the character of the biotope. Resistance is, therefore, assessed as ‘Low’ and resilience as ‘High’ so that sensitivity is categorised as ‘Low’.