We’re used to hearing how carbon emissions affect the air we breathe and the atmosphere around us but this is happening underwater.
The University of North Carolina has been carrying out a study that shows that crabs grow much faster and larger when water is saturated with carbon.
Sounds like a good deal for crab lovers but there are two downsides. First, the larger crabs don’t have any more meat than do average size specimens.
Studies also show other shellfish like lobsters and shrimp are becoming larger as carbon levels rise.
Secondly, the larger versions become much more successful and hungry predators and eat far more oysters, scallops, and other mollusks. Plus, oysters actually grow slower in carbon dense water.
Hardest hit are places like Chesapeake Bay. Oysters are a huge part of the economic engine and food chain in that area.