Ocean acidity may cause shellfish decline

U.S. scientists say they have discovered ocean acidification might be contributing to global shellfish declines.

Stony Brook University researchers said they’ve determined relatively minor increases in ocean acidity caused by elevated carbon dioxide concentrations can impede the growth and survival of hard clams, bay scallops and Eastern oysters.

The scientists at the university’s school of marine and atmospheric sciences said their research is among the first studies looking at the effect of ocean acidification on shellfish.