Assessing diatom-mediated fatty acids in intertidal biofilm: a new conservation concern

Abstract Biofilm communities on intertidal mudflats are recognized as major producers of nutrients, especially fatty acids. The rising threats posed by both climatic and anthropogenic stressors increase the necessity understanding conserving these communities. Shorebirds provide a proxy for studying complex ecology biofilm because their heavy reliance acids from diatomaceous successful long-distance migration. Herein, we review feeding patterns migratory shorebirds, experimental design considerations sampling acid content biofilm, literature describing established emerging analytical methodology. Techniques analysis include commonly employed gas chromatography–flame ionization detection (GC/FID) chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) with derivatization. Liquid (LC/MS) liquid chromatography–quadrupole time flight (LC/QTOF) newly techniques that enable derivatization to be eliminated. In addition, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT/IR), common instrument in chemistry laboratories, has applications research, specifically screening. Using combination methods is necessary improved source essential aquatic systems critical food shorebirds.