Implementing a functional trait approach to the risk assessment framework of an MPA

The Endeavour Hydrothermal Vents Marine Protected Area (MPA) was established in 2002 in recognition of the unique ecosystem and unusual species at these Canadian hot vents. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is formulating a risk assessment approach to support the MPA Management Plan. In collaboration with DFO scientists, we will execute a field campaign in 2016 to the MPA that will sample vent communities and survey their distributions. We expect to augment diversity discovery in this MPA.

Analyses will include assessment of the microbial, meiofaunal and macrofaunal components of the assemblages – the first time for such an integration in the vent habitat. Next-generation sequencing technologies will be used to assign functional traits to free-living microbes (protists and prokaryotes) that occur within dominant faunal communities. Faunal functional traits are available from morphology and field observations over many three decades. We will then develop a functional trait matrix for all organisms present to feed a diversity model based on functional roles in the community.  Using the DFO identified stressors, the next step will be a Pathways of Effects model based on functions. The intent is to validate the current approach and assess a “whole-community” method that may be useful in other MPA’s.