Both scientists and lobster enthusiasts are worried about the shift northward of lobsters towards cooler waters in Canada.
What’s happening?
The U.S. lobster industry, which is largely based in Maine, suffered a significant blow in 2024 when its lobster catch dropped to a 15-year low of around
86 million pounds
as reported by Maine Public.
Major storms
Conditions impacting fisheries this year worsened these already low figures.
Despite the decline in Maine’s lobster catch every year,
since 2021
It remains at an unusually high level when compared to catch figures from the early 2000s, as reported by the Associated Press.
Nevertheless, researchers are worried about the significantly fewer figures observed.
baby lobsters
discovered in the seas near New England.
Despite current figures remaining elevated, they have started to decline, and specialists are concerned about potential further decreases in the future.
lobsters continue to move
towards cooler waters along Canada’s coastline as the seas around New England heat up.
What makes this lobster migration significant?
The decline in lobster numbers had a significant impact on consumer finances. In 2024, prices reached some of their peak levels due to strong demand coupled with scarce supply. This resulted in higher costs for lobsters.
$1.17 higher
more expensive per pound compared to the previous year, as reported by Maine Public.
Tune in now: Giant snails taking over New York City?
Moreover, numerous people in Maine depend on lobster for their income.
business
.
The movement of lobster populations sets off alarms regarding shifting climates. Warm water impacts lobsters in various ways.
Another danger facing lobsters and other crustaceans is the
acidification
Due to increasing carbon dioxide levels, the oceans have experienced alterations.
Human activity
Is directly connected to the increase in acidity that damages the calcium carbonate necessary for lobsters to build their shells.
These problems could potentially be exacerbated by
tariffs
Introduced during the Trump administration, hundreds of millions of dollars worth of Maine lobsters are yearly processed in Canada before being sent back to the U.S. or sold to other markets.
|
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Recently
retired
marine resources commissioner
Pat Keliher said
Tariffs might “devastate” the U.S. lobster industry.
What actions are being taken regarding the rising sea temperatures that impact the lobster business?
In June 2024, the U.S. made significant progress in marine preservation through various initiatives.
National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy
.
A group of researchers from the University of Maine released a study recently.
in-depth study
Regarding the altering environments of lobsters throughout different growth phases. At minimum, this provides understanding into what’s occurring.
In Maine, Governor Janet Mills plans to “help rebuild damaged coastal infrastructure, make it more resilient to the effects of
climate change
“and safeguard crucial waterfront access for those whose livelihoods depend on being on the water,” Keliher stated.
according to AP News
.
Bob Steneck, who served as a professor emeritus in oceanography, marine biology, and marine policy at the University of Maine,
said
When you take into account that this is one of the most extensively researched commercially significant marine species globally, it’s astounding how frequently we continue to be amazed by our beloved lobster.
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Researchers raise concerns following altered behaviors in lobster populations: ‘We continue to be amazed at our ongoing surprises.’
first appeared on
The Cool Down
.
