Microbial Bioactives

Microbial Bioactives | Online ISSN 2209-2161
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Trophic Dynamics and Environmental Stressors in Aquatic Ecosystems: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Ibrahim D. Al deeb 1, Muhamad Al-limoun 2*

+ Author Affiliations

Microbial Bioactives 6 (1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/microbbioacts.6110676

Submitted: 20 July 2023 Revised: 14 September 2023  Published: 24 September 2023 


Abstract

Aquatic ecosystems are complex networks where energy and nutrients are transferred through multiple trophic levels, influenced by both biotic interactions and environmental stressors. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from prior studies to elucidate the roles of zooplankton, microbial communities, and phytoplankton in driving trophic dynamics. Zooplankton serve as critical mediators between primary producers and higher trophic levels, while microbial loops facilitate nutrient recycling and carbon sequestration. Environmental pressures, including climate change, invasive species, chemical pollutants, and harmful algal blooms, can disrupt these interactions, altering trophic efficiency and community resilience. Advanced molecular and isotopic techniques, such as DNA metabarcoding, environmental DNA (eDNA), and stable isotope analysis (SIA), have enhanced the ability to trace energy flow, trophic positions, and bioaccumulation of cyanotoxins. Network and computational models further quantify species interactions and ecosystem robustness, allowing for the integration of multifaceted data into predictive frameworks. This review highlights that anthropogenic stressors often exacerbate natural variability, leading to cascading effects that reduce ecosystem stability. Moreover, sustainable management strategies, including Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) and biomanipulation, can restore trophic balance and mitigate negative impacts. The findings underscore the necessity of a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to studying aquatic ecosystems, integrating molecular, biochemical, and ecological data to inform conservation and policy efforts.

Keywords: Trophic dynamics; Zooplankton; Microbial loop; Harmful algal blooms; Stable isotope analysis; Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture; Ecosystem resilience

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