Somatic growth dynamics of West Atlantic hawksbill sea turtles: a spatio-temporal perspective

摘要: Somatic growth dynamics are an integrated response to environmental conditions. Hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) long-lived, major consumers in coral reef habitats that move over broad geographic areas (hundreds thousands of kilometers). We evaluated spatio-temporal effects on hawksbill a 33-yr period and 24 study sites throughout the West Atlantic explored relationships between climate indices. compiled largest ever data set somatic rates for hawksbills - 3541 increments from 1980 2013. Using generalized additive mixed model analyses, we 10 covariates, including spatial temporal variation, could affect rates. Growth region responded similarly space time. The lack effect or interaction very strong reveal likely driven by region-wide forces. Between 1997 2013, mean declined significantly steadily 18%. Regional indices have significant with annual 0-or 1-yr lags: positive Multivariate El Nino Southern Oscillation Index (correlation = 0.99) negative Caribbean surface temperature -0.85). Declines 2013 most resulted warming waters through indirect foraging resources hawksbills. These climatic influences complex. With increasing temperatures, trajectories decline cover availability prey species not parallel. Knowledge how choice habitats, selection, abundance affected water temperatures is needed understand change will productivity live association reefs.