Benthic–Pelagic Coupling in the Oligotrophic Eastern Mediterranean: A Synthesis of the HYPOXIA Project Results

Benthic–pelagic coupling studies have shown that the response of benthic system to eutrophication is subject complex nonlinear dynamics with specific thresholds beyond which abrupt changes in ecosystem occur and time lags between inputs responses. The “HYPOXIA: regime shifts ” project aimed investigate how nutrient input water column results ecological processes eutrophication, may lead significant, irreversible eastern Mediterranean marine ecosystems within a short period time. included analysis historical data, field sampling, mesocosm experiments. From results, it can be concluded are quickly capitalized by small phytoplankton species resulting bloom high uptake capabilities. When Eutrophic Index values (calculated using chlorophyll- concentrations) cross moderate-to-poor threshold, precipitating organic matter cause observable effects on system. Depending intensity persistence, start from microbenthos, meiofauna, macrofauna increase abundance biomass significant community structure. latter includes proliferation macrofaunal opportunistic species, an deposit feeders, risk quality degradation. However, contrary other regions world, no hypoxia or dead zones were observed as O 2 concentrations showed positive correlation. This caused photosynthetic activity microphytobenthos, increased bioturbation macrofauna, sediment deposit-feeding consume excess matter. Eastern coastal show resilience adverse preventing azoic conditions when only source environmental disturbance.