NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 NEWSLETTER
NEWS FROM THE SOUTHEAST:
ACIDIFICATION AND A... LESS NUTRITIOUS OYSTER ROAST?
We're in the "R" months and that officially means it's oyster roasting season in the Southeast! While many studies have looked at the effects of acidification on oyster growth and reproduction, few have considered how their nutritional content might change. Researchers at the University of Plymouth found that lipids, carbohydrates and protein were all reduced in Pacific oysters when exposed to acidified conditions. We don't know if the same goes for the Eastern oyster, the species common to the Southeast, but there could be significant consequences for aquaculture of these economically valuable species. Read the news article and research article. (Image credit: Baxter Miller)
ACIDIFICATION & ANOTHER FAVORITE FOOD OF THE SOUTHEAST...

Blue crabs are another favorite edible sea creature in our region and while adult crabs appear to be resilient to acidification, multiple studies have shown sensitivity of the larval stage. A recent study from Stony Brook University found a significant additive effect of low dissolved oxygen and low pH on larval mortality. These conditions are common in summer months when blue crabs spawn. Read more about the research here.
GET INVOLVED:
Join the GOA-ON Pier2Peer Program

Pier2Peer is a scientific mentorship program that matches senior researchers with early career scientists to facilitate an exchange of expertise and to provide a platform for international collaborations. Read more about the program here .
Participate in the OA Day of Action

The Ocean Foundation launched a new website to engage audiences to learn more about ocean acidification and join forces for their day of action. Visit the new website here !
Share your knowledge

Stanford University and the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute recently published a new activity book for 4th-6th graders. Learn more and download the free activity book here.
SECOORA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Ocean Acidification Program are facilitating the operation of the SOCAN to support and encourage discussions on ocean and coastal acidification in the Southeast region.