Assessing the effect of climate-change-related summer heat wave on the condition and physiology of the cultured blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) and monitoring of the carbonate system within Prince Edward Island bays

Description

Climate change is an issue that will impact the shellfish aquaculture industry in Atlantic Canada. There are a number of questions related to the impact of the physical effects of climate change on the environment (such as ocean acidification) in which the shellfish aquaculture industry operates, and consequently the health and health management of farmed animals.

This project will quantify the physiological stress (shellfish health impact) associated with increased water temperature for extended periods of time. In relation to ocean acidification, parameters of the carbonate system will be measured within the shellfish aquaculture environment to assess current levels. Results from this project will offer guidance on maintaining healthy mussel populations in the face of climate change and sustainable management of shellfish aquaculture in the present and future.

Program Name

Aquaculture Collaborative Research and Development Program (ACRDP)

Year(s)

2015 - 2018

Principal Investigator(s)

Carla Hicks
Aquatic Science Biologist, Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Gulf Fisheries Centre, Gulf Region
Email: Carla.Hicks@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Team Member(s)

Luc Comeau, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Gulf Fisheries Centre, Gulf Region

Aaron Ramsay, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, PEI

Kumiko Azetsu-Scott, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Maritimes Region

Sarah Stewart-Clark, Dalhousie University, Faculty of Aquaculture

Collaborative Partner(s)

Peter Warris, Prince Edward Island Aquaculture Alliance