MUSSELS, among other shellfish species, are reportedly in danger of being wiped out by increasing greenhouse gas levels in seawater.
Certain types of shellfish are being threatened by the rise of global warming, European scientists have discovered.
Most shellfish are at some risk, but the worst affected species are oysters and mussels, which are in serious danger of being wiped out because of the increase in greenhouse gas levels in seawater, according to the scientists.
The report, which was carried out by French and Dutch scientists at France’s CNRS research centre and the Netherlands Institute of Ecology has found that rising levels of acid in the sea caused by carbon dioxide emissions are threatening some of the world’s most popular edible shellfish. Scientists said the carbon dioxide (Co2) was preventing oysters and mussels from producing shells, making them slow to develop and vulnerable to predators.
The report also found that the creatures’ shells were reduced by up to 25% in seawater, with Co2 levels predicted for the end of this century. Increasing Co2 levels in the water led to the shells dissolving completely. It is estimated that 25-million tonnes of Co2 are absorbed by the sea.
Fishfarmer Magazine, 21 March 2007. Article.
