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Echinobase
ECB-ART-51361
J Exp Biol 2023 Jul 01;22613:. doi: 10.1242/jeb.245750.
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Hyposalinity reduces coordination and adhesion of sea urchin tube feet.

Moura AJ , Garner AM , Narvaez CA , Cucchiara JP , Stark AY , Russell MP .


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Climate change will increase the frequency and intensity of low-salinity (hyposalinity) events in coastal marine habitats. Sea urchins are dominant herbivores in these habitats and are generally intolerant of salinity fluctuations. Their adhesive tube feet are essential for survival, effecting secure attachment and locomotion in high wave energy habitats, yet little is known about how hyposalinity impacts their function. We exposed green sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis) to salinities ranging from ambient (32‰) to severe (14‰) and assessed tube feet coordination (righting response, locomotion) and adhesion [disc tenacity (force per unit area)]. Righting response, locomotion and disc tenacity decreased in response to hyposalinity. Severe reductions in coordinated tube foot activities occurred at higher salinities than those that affected adhesion. The results of this study suggest moderate hyposalinities (24-28‰) have little effect on S. droebachiensis dislodgement risk and survival post-dislodgment, while severe hyposalinity (below 24‰) likely reduces movement and prevents recovery from dislodgment.

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References [+] :
Burnett, Respiratory and acid-base physiology of the purple sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, during air exposure: presence and function of a facultative lung. 2002, Pubmed, Echinobase