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Dryad

Data from: Temporal patterns in multiple stressors shape the vulnerability of overwintering Arctic zooplankton

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Nov 18, 2024 version files 22.42 KB

Abstract

Our study investigates the winter survival of the Arctic copepod C. glacialis under multiple stressors, exploring stressor temporal dynamics and exposure duration. We conducted experiments with pulse (intermittent) and press (continuous) exposure temporal scenarios, involving microplastics, pyrene, and warming in a fully factorial design. We observed significant effects on copepod survival, with pronounced impacts during later stressor phases. Two-way interactions between microplastics and pyrene, as well as pyrene and warming, showed significant effects, further intensified with the presence of a third stressor. Continuous stressor exposure for 9 days (press temporal scenario) led to greater reductions in copepod survival compared to the pulse scenario, characterised by two 3-day stressor exposure phases. Notably, the inclusion of recovery phases, free from stressor exposure, positively influenced copepod survival, highlighting the importance of temporal dynamics. Our findings underscore the intricate interactions among multiple stressors and their temporal patterns in shaping overwintering Arctic copepod responses. This study has crucial implications for managing Arctic aquatic ecosystems in the context of ongoing climate change, highlighting the need to predict and mitigate combined stressor effects in these environments.