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Using chemical language to shape future marine health
Author(s) -
Saha Mahasweta,
Berdalet Elisa,
Carotenuto Ylenia,
Fink Patrick,
Harder Tilmann,
John Uwe,
Not Fabrice,
Pohnert Georg,
Potin Philippe,
Selander Erik,
Vyverman Wim,
Wichard Thomas,
Zupo Valerio,
Steinke Michael
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
frontiers in ecology and the environment
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.918
H-Index - 164
eISSN - 1540-9309
pISSN - 1540-9295
DOI - 10.1002/fee.2113
Subject(s) - trophic level , marine ecosystem , ecology , ecosystem , chemical ecology , environmental resource management , biology , environmental science
“Infochemicals” (information‐conveying chemicals) dominate much of the underwater communication in biological systems. They influence the movement and behavior of organisms, the ecological interactions between and across populations, and the trophic structure of marine food webs. However, relative to their terrestrial equivalents, the wider ecological and economic importance of marine infochemicals remains understudied and a concerted, cross‐disciplinary effort is needed to reveal the full potential of marine chemical ecology. We highlight current challenges with specific examples and suggest how research on the chemical ecology of marine organisms could provide opportunities for implementing new management solutions for future “blue growth” (the sustainable use of ocean resources) and maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.