Sharks and oysters will be more common in warmer UK waters say scientists
Could the UK start to see more sharks in its seas?Well, scientists say that endangered sharks, rays and oysters are just some of the species that could increase their numbers around the UK waters as ocean temperatures rise. The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) looked at how 19 threatened marine species will respond to the change in UK seas by 2060.It says many creatures could find new homes in parts of the North Sea predicted to become biodiversity hotspots in the next 50 years, but other species would struggle to adapt, researchers found.
According to experts, oceans across the world have reached record temperatures in the last few years.The world's oceans are warming as they have absorbed up to 90% of the additional heating created when humans burn fossil fuels like oil, coal and gas, explained BBC climate reporter Georgina Rennard.The UK seas are among 20 places globally that have warmed fastest over the past 50 years, she added.The analysis aims to guide the government as it plans how to ensure so-called Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) continue to protect species even as they change habitat.
This study, published in the journal Marine Biology, looked at more species that could flourish. Spurdog sharks, basking sharks and thornbacks - a type of ray with spines and oysters were all predicted to do well. But a type of clam that can live more than 500 years, was predicted to struggle in a warmer climate. And a small creature called a sea pen, which helps to build reefs, could lose up to 40% of their suitable habitat with 75 years.
The loss of creatures like this could have a knock-on effect on food chains and eco-systems. Scientists also warned that in order for the creatures do well, people will need to do their part to look after the sea.Dr John Pinnegar, Principal Scientist and Lead Advisor on climate change at Cefas said: "The seas still need to be managed carefully and other pressures reduced if the creatures are to thrive in new habitats," he said.
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