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The mauve stinger Pelagia noctiluca is a holoplanktonic oceanic jellyfish that is known for its major outbreaks at irregular intervals. In the northern Adriatic, large blooms have occurred sporadically in recent decades. However, they are sighted more frequently in some other Mediterranean regions. We investigate the dispersal of Pelagia noctiluca in the Adriatic and Mediterranean Seas using an individual-based model (IBM) based on the OpenDrift Lagrangian particle tracking tool. The model accounts for vertical migrations and was run backward in time to explain sightings of Pelagia noctiluca in the Northern Adriatic. The modeling period spans from 1987-2020, and the currents used to drive the particles were obtained from the Copernicus Med MFC physical reanalysis. There is only partial agreement with observations, which is likely due to oversimplification of the model, but may also be, to some extent, due to the lack of regular monitoring campaigns. We also present preliminary results of additional experiments in which the behavior of particles (superindividuals) is modulated by temperature and food availability.
Primary Presenter: Martin Vodopivec, National Institute of Biology (martin.vodopivec@nib.si)
Authors:
Martin Vodopivec, National Institute of Biology, Marine Biology Station Piran (martin.vodopivec@nib.si)
Davor Lučić, University of Dubrovnik, Institute for Marine and Coastal Research ()
Alenka Malej, National Institute of Biology, Marine Biology Station Piran ()
Modeling the dispersal of Pelagia noctiluca jellyfish in the Mediterranean Sea
Category
Scientific Sessions > SS056 Jellyfish in the Changing Ocean