Application of stable isotopic techniques to wetlands conservation

Abstract

Identification of food chain linkages between high trophic order species (particularly those of commercial and recreational importance) and different wetland resources (e.g. saltmarsh, mangrove and seagrass) is fundamental to resource management. The source of energy and trophic connectivity among species in the ecosystem can be quantified using stable isotopic techniques. Stable nitrogen isotopes can be used for tracking of pollutant derived from urban effluent or other anthropogenic sources that contribute to eutrophication and other management issues in aquatic environment. Analysis of non-radioactive, naturally occurring carbon and nitrogen isotopes is one of the most powerful techniques that can be considered in clarifying management questions related to wetland conservation.