Pteropods have been recognized as one of the most sensitive marine organisms to ocean acidification (OA). Their susceptibility is mostly related to rapid shell dissolution, which is correlated with exposure to waters undersaturated with respect to aragonite (Ωar ≤ 1) (e.g., Lischka et al., 2011; Bednaršek et al., 2012a and Bednaršek et al., 2012b; 2014a,b; Busch et al., 2014).(…)
Here we provide a commentary on the Peck et al. (this issue) article, which suggests that pteropods may be less vulnerable to OA than previously reported because their intact periostracum offers protection against dissolution related to corrosive environmental conditions. (…)
Bednaršek N., Johnson J. & Feely R. A., in press. Vulnerability of pteropod (Limacina helicina) to ocean acidification: shell dissolution occurs despite an intact organic layer. Deep Sea Research Part II: Topical Studies in Oceanography. Article (subscription required).
