Impact of CO2 on Blue Mussel Shells
Author Information
Author(s): Frank Melzner, Paul Stange, Katja Trübenbach, Jörn Thomsen, Isabel Casties, Ulrike Panknin, Stanislav N. Gorb, Magdalena A. Gutowska
Primary Institution: Leibniz-Institute of Marine Sciences (IFM-GEOMAR), Kiel, Germany
Hypothesis
Does elevated seawater pCO2 affect calcification and inner shell surface integrity in blue mussels?
Conclusion
The study found that high pCO2 and low food availability significantly decrease shell growth and increase internal shell corrosion in blue mussels.
Supporting Evidence
- Low food algae concentrations and high pCO2 values significantly decreased shell length growth.
- Internal shell surface corrosion was documented at high pCO2 treatments.
- Both food availability and pCO2 significantly influenced inner shell surface dissolution.
Takeaway
When blue mussels don't get enough food and the water has too much CO2, their shells can get damaged and they grow less.
Methodology
Mussels were exposed to different levels of seawater pCO2 and food algae concentrations for seven weeks, and their shell growth and internal corrosion were measured.
Limitations
The study was conducted at low temperatures, which may affect growth rates compared to warmer conditions.
Participant Demographics
Blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) collected from Kiel Fjord.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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