Following the dramatic decline of red abalone over the last 60 years, aquaculture has paved the way for restoration efforts and commercial opportunities. However, changes in certain oceanic conditions — such as ocean acidification (OA) resulting from increased greenhouse gases in the atmosphere — remain a challenge for aquaculture production. The increased acidity increases mortality rates and slows growth times for production abalone, which could have a significant impact on aquaculture businesses.
Given the large volume of water needed, controlling the pH for aquaculture facilities remains technically and economically infeasible. Instead, aquaculture facilities rely on local oceanic conditions where seawater is sourced.
This project assessed the effects of increased acidity on red abalone both within and across generations. Prior research has demonstrated early-life exposure to OA can affect abalones’ responses to acidity exposure later in life. This research expands upon that and determines how OA exposure affects subsequent generations: whether they may be more resistant to increased acidity or if they instead suffer from reduced fitness. Overall, researchers found negative carryover effects of OA both within and across generations.
Aquaculture and restorative efforts can utilize these results to better provision their stocks against the impacts of decreasing pH levels. Successful aquaculture efforts will remain an important component in a sustainable and stable abalone industry. The results may be applicable to the aquaculture of other mollusk species as well.