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Can fluctuating asymmetry in Talitrus saltator (Montagu, 1808) (Crustacea, Amphipoda) populations be used as a bioindicator of stress on sandy beach ecosystems?

Ottaviano O., Scapini F.

Oceanologia

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2010

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No. 52 (2)

259-280

EN

This study focused on verifying the fluctuating asymmetry hypothesis in the crustacean Talitrus saltator, which lives in sandy beaches. We analysed three populations, one from an unpolluted Tuscan beach relatively free of tourism, and two from Sicilian beaches, which have been increasingly used for tourism and have been exposed to hydrocarbon/pesticide pollution. Results confirmed the sexual dimorphism in the second antennae flagella, which in the Tuscan population presented directional asymmetry. This population had a significant level of fluctuating asymmetry in the P6 and P3 meri. The results showed the importance of the developmental stage during which environmental mechanical stresses act.

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From researchers to primary school: dissemination of scientific research results on the beach. An experience of environmental education at Nefza, Tunisia

Fanini L., El Gtari M., Ghlala A., El Gtari-Chaabkane T., Scapini F.

Oceanologia

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2007

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No. 49 (1)

145-157

EN

Within the framework of the MEDCORE project on the ecology and management of Mediterranean coastal areas we decided to include the local dissemination of scientific results in Tunisia. The involvement of a local public school, and the joint work of local teachers and of local and international researchers, was chosen as a dissemination method because of the role of the school as an educational centre and the natural interest and curiosity characterising the schoolchildren. As the subject of the experience of dissemination a beach-dune system was considered suitable because of it was near, familiar and easy to reach, and also because of the economic importance of such environments, which generate considerable income as a result of tourists frequenting them. In environmental education, however, less emphasis is placed on this particular environment. A test performed before and after a school trip to the beach showed an increase in knowledge among children about beach-dune systems. Correlations between the gender and background of the children with their previous knowledge and information acquired from the field experience were analysed, and found to be not significant. All the children were equally receptive to environmental issues, regardless of their gender or background (urban/rural environment). One of the main results obtained through this experience is the effectiveness of sharing knowledge with local people, as stakeholders of study sites. The next step in the process of disseminating scientific knowledge for the benefit of the local community should be to examine its possible long-term effects.

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Relationships between the dynamics of two Talitrus saltator populations and the impacts of activities linked to tourism

Fanini L., Cantarino C. M., Scapini F.

Oceanologia

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2005

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No. 47 (1)

93-112

EN

The study considered two ecologically similar coastal areas in Tuscany (Italy). One site belongs to a protected natural area and the other one is in front of a camping site. We analysed the impact of human activities, such as trampling and mechanical beach cleaning, on Talitrus saltator. It turned out that the population density was affected in that it first disappeared from the area at the camping site, then recolonised it once the peak of the tourist season at the camping site had passed. The results confirm the sensitivity of this species and its plasticity in adapting to different conditions on the one hand, and the positive effects of diversification in resource management on the other hand.