2014-2016 and 2019 Gulf of Alaska heatwaves disrupted coastal habitats for young Pacific cod, affecting their abundance, growth rates, and diet.
A study by Oregon State University reveals that marine heatwaves in the Gulf of Alaska disrupted the protective effects of near-shore coastal habitats for young Pacific cod, leading to significant changes in their abundance, growth rates, and diet. During 2014-2016 and 2019 heatwaves, the cod population faced challenges, with only the largest 15-25% surviving summer. These findings may have broader implications for marine fish populations worldwide, as marine heatwaves become more frequent due to climate change.
June 27, 2024
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