Rising carbon dioxide levels are making seawater more acidic, robbing it of carb

Authors

Peter McDougall

Source

Mainebiz

Date

10-5-2009

Pages

1, 14-15

Abstract

Rising carbon dioxide levels are making seawater more acidic, robbing it of carbonate ions necessary for calcification and shell development. Juvenile bivalves, such as the mussels and oysters grown by Maine's bivalve aquaculture industry, are the first to suffer. Researchers believe shellfish harvest could be reduced by 25 percent in Maine by 2060, threatening Maine's coastal industries. Lobsters are at risk as well. With a list of species affected by acidification, by pound and dollar amount.

Subjects

Carbon dioxide, Ocean, Seafood, Shellfish industry

Recommended Citation

McDougall, Peter, "Rising carbon dioxide levels are making seawater more acidic, robbing it of carb" (2009). Maine News Index – MaineBiz. 4987.
https://digitalcommons.portlandlibrary.com/news_mainebiz/4987