Ocean acidification and adaptive bivalve farming

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Aquaculture Science
• Climate Change Impact Studies

Background:

• Global warming and ocean acidification (OA) pose significant threats to bivalve molluscs.
• The effects of OA on bivalve aquaculture are less understood than those of global warming.
• Existing research on OA impacts on bivalves is fragmented, hindering clear connections to aquaculture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the impact of OA on bivalves.
• To clarify the relationship between OA and bivalve aquaculture.
• To propose mitigation strategies for bivalve farming under changing ocean conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing evidence from field observations and experimental studies.
• Analysis of scientific reports on OA effects on bivalve physiology and survival.
• Evaluation of aquaculture management strategies, including integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA).

Main Results:

• OA reduces carbonate mineral availability, negatively affecting bivalve early life stages, calcification, growth, byssus attachment, and survival.
• IMTA can mitigate climate change effects, offering bivalves more time to adapt.
• IMTA alone may be insufficient for species with long generation times or in severely affected regions.

Conclusions:

• OA presents a substantial threat to bivalve populations and aquaculture.
• Combining IMTA with genetic breeding is recommended to enhance bivalve climate resilience through transgenerational adaptation.
• These strategies are crucial for developing effective aquaculture and fisheries management plans.