The Physiology of Dungeness crab under multiple future environmental challenges
Oregon’s most valuable
species
is under threat
The future sustainability of the Oregon’s most economically valuable species is under threat. In recent decades, Oregon’s coastal ecosystems have emerged as a global hotspot for ocean acidification and hypoxia (OAH), as well as marine heatwaves. These challenges pose a significant threat to regional marine fisheries, which remain a vital economic resource for coastal communities. Benthic species, such as Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister), have so far endured some of the earliest and most severe OAH conditions with relatively little effects on the fishery. A key question, however, is whether Dungeness will remain tolerant as these environmental challenges continue to worsen throughout the next century. As such, developing a mechanistic understanding of how vulnerable life stages of Dungeness crab respond to OAH is especially important.
Research led by the Chan Lab leverages use of the Oregon Coastal Ocean Simulation Laboratory, a state-of-the-art seawater system housed in the Gurr Lab at the Hatfield Marine Science Center (Newport, OR). After diligent design and reconfiguration, the system will be used in our study to understand the how early life stage crab responds to projected OAH and warming conditions in the Pacific Northwest. By utilizing regional specific oceanographic models to inform our experimental treatments, we can simulate realistic conditions that M. magister is likely to face between now and 2100. As a result, we can develop a comprehensive understanding of how multiple combined environmental challenges affect the growth and survival of Dungeness crab, as well as identify the key molecular pathways that underpin these responses. This knowledge will ultimately equip fisheries managers, policymakers, and coastal communities with the scientific foundation needed to better observe, manage, and sustain one of Oregon’s most economically and culturally vital fisheries in the face of rapidly changing ocean conditions.
