‘Our new normal’: how marine heatwaves affect life in British seas
As warming seas push native species to cooler waters farther north, once-rare visitors have become more common
TL;DR
- Marine heatwaves are causing shifts in marine life off British shores.
- Native cold-water species are moving to cooler seas farther north, impacting fisheries like cod.
- Warmer-water species such as bass, comber, and triggerfish are becoming more common.
- New species, including common octopuses and hair curler sea slugs, are appearing more frequently.
- Marine heatwaves are detrimental to vital habitats like seagrass and kelp, with significant losses already recorded.
- Warmer waters can trigger harmful algal blooms, posing risks to animal and human health.
- The long-term impact on fisheries and the recovery of displaced species are uncertain.
- Climate breakdown is increasing the frequency and severity of marine heatwaves, leading to a 'new normal' in ocean conditions.