Some fish might thrive in a warming climate
Adelaide University researchers have found that some estuarine fishes that live in habitats with highly variable temperatures can withstand the warmer ocean conditions expected to result from climate change.
Researchers from Adelaide University have discovered that certain estuarine fish may be able to withstand warmer ocean conditions brought about by climate change. The study, published in Global Change Biology, reveals that some estuarine fish possess the genetic ability to tolerate extreme temperatures. Project leader Ivan Nagelkerken explains that climatic extremes are becoming more frequent, intense, and prolonged due to human-induced climate change, which can rapidly alter aquatic communities and affect ecosystem services such as fisheries productivity.
The study focused on three economically important estuarine species – yellowfin bream, sand whiting, and tarwhine – which are commonly targeted by recreational and commercial fishers on Australia's east coast. These species have been found to be "thermal generalists," indicating a genetic resilience to withstand extreme conditions.
While this tolerance is promising for the future of these fish populations, Nagelkerken cautions that not all marine species share this trait, and managing factors like pollution and overfishing will be crucial for sustaining fisheries in the face of a changing climate.
Written by urgent.news from Phys.org's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
