Shellfish

A new method could help Washington shellfish farmers control a pesky shrimp

Newly discovered microbial world helps protect developing lobsters

Mangrove crab outruns its namesake in climate-driven coastal shift

A study reveals that Atlantic mangrove fiddler crabs are settling into temperate salt marshes along the southeastern US coast due to climate change. The species is expanding its range northward, with some populations reaching as far as South Carolina, and may soon spread to North Carolina.

Seashell saviors: discarded oyster shells can clean polluted water by removing "rare earths"

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered that crushed oyster shells can capture and remove rare earth elements from polluted water. The shells trigger a chemical reaction that converts dissolved metals into solid mineral crystals, making them an effective tool for environmental cleanup.

Oysters play unexpected role in protecting blue crabs from disease

New research reveals oyster filter feeding significantly reduces transmission of deadly Hematodinium perezi parasite in Chesapeake Bay's juvenile blue crabs. Oysters eliminated over 60% of parasites within an hour, reducing infection risk by one-third.

Shrinking shellfish? FAU study uncovers acidic water risks in Indian River lagoon

A new FAU study uncovers the impact of acidic water on shell-building marine organisms, highlighting the need for strategies to mitigate coastal acidification. The research found that nutrient pollution, freshwater input, and other environmental factors contribute to reduced aragonite saturation.

Oyster larvae on drugs move slowly and are stressed

Research reveals that exposure to addictive drugs like fentanyl and ketamine affects the behavior and survival rates of oyster larvae. The study found that after two weeks of exposure, survival declined in all treatments and doses, with benzoylecgonine causing the greatest reduction.

Urban blue spaces: Quietly supporting food, income and community

A research team led by Göttingen University found that urban blue spaces play a critical role in food security and social inclusion in four major Indian cities. Women, the elderly, and marginalized communities most frequently collected, shared, cooked, and sold food products.

Half-billion-year-old parasite still threatens shellfish

Researchers discovered a common parasite of modern oysters has been infecting bivalves for hundreds of millions of years. The parasite, belonging to the spionid group, has remained largely unchanged despite multiple mass extinction events.

A new pink sea anemone that “builds a home” for hermit crabs discovered off Japan’s deep-sea coast

A new species of sea anemone has been discovered building shell-like homes for hermit crabs. The anemone secretes a carcinoecium that expands and reinforces the crab's shell, forming a mutualistic relationship between the two species.

Warming oceans may pose a serious threat to American lobsters

Research suggests that American lobsters are more resilient to ocean acidification than previously thought, but they are highly sensitive to heat stress. The study found that warmer water led to faster embryo development, but smaller larvae with decreased survival prospects in the wild.

Marine scientists urge overhaul of restoration rules to save oceans

A team of international marine scientists urges reform to licensing and regulation of coastal restoration projects. The authors argue outdated systems hinder progress toward ambitious global targets to restore 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030.

FAU awarded US EPA grant to integrate genetics in Florida bay sponge restoration

Researchers will analyze genetic diversity and structure of four key sponge species to enhance resilience in restored populations. The project aims to build ecological resilience in vulnerable marine environments through a genetics-based approach.

New mega RNA virus may hold the key to mass oyster die-offs

Scientists have identified a previously unknown virus in Pacific oysters linked to annual mass die-offs, highlighting the importance of disease prevention measures. The discovery also underscores the need for further research into the causes of mortality in oyster populations.

Ancient golden silk revived from the Korean sea

A team of Korean researchers has successfully recreated a golden fiber akin to that of 2,000 years ago using the pen shell cultivated in Korean coastal waters. The breakthrough reveals the scientific basis behind its unchanging golden color and demonstrates the potential of eco-friendly materials.

The kids are hungry: Juvenile European green crabs just as damaging as adults, WSU study finds

Researchers at Washington State University discovered that juvenile European green crabs can cause significant damage to shellfish, native eelgrass, and the ecosystem. The study found that even young crabs can crack into immature shellfish with ease, challenging current removal techniques.

BioOne presents 2025 Ambassador Award to five early-career researchers

The 2025 BioOne Ambassador Award recognizes exceptional early-career researchers who are advancing public understanding of science through effective communication. The award highlights their outstanding research and commitment to sharing their work with a broader audience.

Biologists discover ancient neurohormone that controls appetite

A team of biologists has discovered an ancient neurohormone called bombesin that controls appetite in humans and other vertebrates. The study also found that bombesin-like neurohormones are present in starfish, revealing a common ancestor of appetite regulation dating back over half a billion years.

Pacific oyster may colonize the Baltic Sea

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have discovered that Pacific oysters can reproduce in less salty waters, potentially allowing them to colonize the western Baltic Sea. The study found that genetic diversity and breeding habitat play a crucial role in the oysters' ability to adapt.

Feeding anemone: Symbiote fish actively feed hosts in wild

Anemonefish provide food to bubble-tip anemones through active provisioning, which increases the host's growth rate. This symbiotic behavior is crucial for the anemonefish as it benefits them by making their hosts larger.

Study highlights successes of Virginia’s oyster restoration efforts

A study led by Alexandria Marquardt suggests that Virginia's oyster restoration practices are effective in increasing fishery sustainability and supporting local economies. The research shows that shell replenishment activities, combined with rotational harvests, result in improved reef structure and increased commercial harvests.

More acidic oceans may affect the sex of oysters

A study found that ocean acidification can shift the sex ratio of oysters towards females, a mechanism known as environmental sex determination. This phenomenon was observed across multiple generations in both hatcheries and natural habitats, highlighting the potential impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.

To build better fiber optic cables, ask a clam

Researchers discovered that heart cockle shells have translucent areas with hair-thin strands that deliver specific wavelengths of light into the bivalves' tissues. This natural system filters out bad wavelengths and channels in optimal wavelengths for photosynthesis, benefiting the clams' symbiotic algae.

Bioeconomy in Colombia: The race to save Colombia's vital shellfish

Piangua populations are experiencing a significant loss of genetic diversity due to intense harvesting, reducing their ability to adapt to environmental challenges. The study reveals subtle genetic variations among local populations, highlighting the need for targeted conservation strategies.

Fossils from the Adriatic Sea show a recent and worrying reversal of fortunes

The study found a recent reversal of fortunes in the Adriatic Sea, with populations of marine predators and their prey plummeting and being replaced by a single species. The researchers used seafloor environments to determine interactions between species, showing a decline in biodiversity and excess nutrients.

Sustaining oyster farming with sturdier rafts

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed polyethylene rafts that are about five times more durable than traditional bamboo rafts used in oyster farming. The new rafts are designed to be affordable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, reducing damage from typhoons.

New clam species discovered in South Africa’s kelp forest

A new study reveals a previously unknown galeommatoidean bivalve species, Brachiomya ducentiunus, found attached to sea urchins in False Bay's kelp forest. The discovery expands our understanding of marine biodiversity and ecological interactions.

The detection of a massive harmful algal bloom in the Arctic prompts real-time advisories to western Alaskan communities

A massive harmful algal bloom was detected in the Bering Strait region of western Alaska in 2022, posing an unprecedented risk to human and ecosystem health. The bloom, caused by the single-celled organism Alexandrium catenella, was tracked using new technology and communicated to remote coastal communities in real-time.

Restored oyster sanctuaries host more marine life

New research reveals oyster sanctuaries contain more abundant populations of oysters and other animal life, despite the presence of parasites. The study found that these areas support higher oyster densities and habitat quality than nearby harvest sites.

Scientists question effectiveness of nature-based CO2 removal using the ocean

Scientists from the University of East Anglia and other institutions review the climatic effectiveness of four 'nature-based' techniques using marine biological processes. They conclude that these activities cannot provide a significant contribution to carbon dioxide removal, posing risks to meaningful climate mitigation.

Pacific Oyster density has increased up to 32-fold across a decade in some California waters, and coincides with summer seawater temperature increases of 2-4°C

Pacific Oysters experienced a significant increase in density, reaching up to 32-fold, concurrent with summer seawater temperature rises of 2-4°C. This trend coincides with warmer ocean conditions in California waters.

Rapid oyster reef restoration gives hope for repairing the sea

Researchers successfully restored a Flat oyster reef along the Adelaide coastline, achieving ecological recovery within two and a half years. The restored reef showed remarkable biodiversity and functional improvements, providing hope for the future of marine ecosystems.

Alaska Native tribes take lead on shellfish toxin testing where state falls short

A group of coastal Alaska Native tribes have successfully taken the lead on shellfish toxin testing, filling a critical gap in public health protection. However, securing stable funding and improving outreach has been limited, threatening the effectiveness of the program.

Neolithic groups from the south of the Iberian Peninsula first settled permanently in San Fernando (Cadiz) 6,200 years ago

The first Neolithic farmers and shepherds in Andalusia settled permanently on the island of San Fernando, Cadiz, 6,200 years ago. They collected and consumed shellfish throughout the year, with a greater exploitation during the colder months of autumn, winter, and early spring.

Your local sea snail might not make it in warmer oceans – but oysters will

Local sea snails, such as the frilled dog winkle, are vulnerable to warming oceans due to their inability to adapt or migrate. In contrast, species like oysters and northern anchovies, which are tolerant of heat, may survive in warmer waters.

Innovative aquaculture system turns waste wood into nutritious seafood

Researchers have developed a fully-enclosed aquaculture system that can be completely controlled, eliminating water quality and food safety concerns. The system produces nutrient-rich protein-rich 'Naked Clams' that are faster-growing than mussels and oysters, with higher Vitamin B12 levels.

Mollusk bivalves may hold the secret to a longer life

A new study reveals a network of genes that evolve differently in long-lived and short-lived bivalves, associated with longevity in other animals. This shared molecular framework suggests a common genetic basis for extended longevity across diverse animal lineages.

Heavy metals and traditional shellfish harvesting affect mangrove habitats in Senegal

A study found that invertebrate abundance and diversity decreased near human activities like shellfish harvesting and heavy metal pollution. In contrast, environmental factors like water temperature and salinity impacted invertebrates further away from human settlements.

Genomic analysis reveals ancient cancer lineages in clams

Researchers have discovered widespread genomic mutations and instability in transmissible cancers found in clams, which may explain their survival for over 200 years. The study highlights the clam's potential as a model for studying cancer evolution and developing novel strategies to block cancer in humans.

Contagious cancers in cockles sequenced, showing unexpected instability

Researchers have sequenced the genomes of transmissible shellfish cancers, revealing high levels of genomic instability not seen in other cancers. The study focused on the common cockle, a species that belongs to one of the oldest groups of animals on Earth.

Sea sequin ‘bling’ links Indonesian islands’ ancient communities

Researchers found shared sewing trends of Nautilus shell beads across three Indonesian islands dating back at least 12,000 years. The beads indicate a shared culture and practice of collecting Nautilus shells for aesthetic purposes.

More than 800 human-harvested shellfish species tend to be more resistant to extinction

A new study identifies over 800 bivalve species that humans harvest and find to be more resilient to extinction due to their adaptability in various climates. The researchers highlight the need for sustainable management to preserve these populations, but also warn of potential risks if human demand exceeds their capacity.

Asian clams’ spread in Columbia River warns of worse invaders

The study found Asian clams in various habitats along the lower Columbia River, with high concentrations near warmer waters and sandy substrates. The invasive species can disrupt food webs and cause economic damage, raising concerns about potential future invasions by quagga and zebra mussels.

The clams that fell behind, and what they can tell us about evolution and extinction

Researchers studied bivalve evolution during the Cambrian Explosion and found they branched out slowly compared to other groups. The study suggests that the slow start may have been due to the absence of a key adaptation, such as an enlarged gill, which allowed them to filter out plankton from water.

Crushed clams, roaming rays: acoustic tags reveal predator interactions

A longitudinal study using acoustic telemetry monitored rays in clam leases, finding that rays spent more time near sites than reported, but not necessarily preferring them. The study highlights the need to understand if clam leases are part of rays' natural foraging habitats and if they interact with the clams.

Researchers are designing self-repairing oyster reefs to protect Florida’s coastlines

A team of scientists, including a University of Central Florida researcher, is developing oyster-based shoreline protection for U.S. coastlines. The project aims to create self-repairing reef-mimicking structures to mitigate coastal flooding and erosion.

Does current shellfish anti-predator gear curb ‘crunching’ rays?

Researchers found that current anti-predator gear can reduce clam mortality by four- to tenfold, with double-layered treatments showing the highest survival rates. However, rays were still capable of interacting with the gear for prolonged periods, potentially diverting them from other natural habitats.

Marine heatwaves decimate sea urchins, molluscs and more at Rottnest

Researchers at Curtin University found a catastrophic decline in biodiversity at the west end of Rottnest Island, with some species experiencing declines of up to 90% between 2007 and 2021. The study highlights the impact of global climate change on marine ecosystems even in protected areas.

Wood-eating clams use their poop to dominate their habitat

Researchers discovered that a group of wood-boring clams has evolved to build chimneys made of poop to get pure water in and expel waste, dominating their habitat. These clams have adapted to low oxygen conditions with unique traits like mucosal linings and hemoglobin-rich blood.

Molecular fingerprint behind beautiful pearls revealed

Researchers from OIST have sequenced the genome of pearl oysters, finding key differences between chromosome pairs that could impact immunity and pearl production. The study aims to identify resilient strains for aquaculture, addressing declining pearl production in Japan.

Study will predict fate of Western Atlantic mollusks by scouring ancient fossil record

A University of Kansas paleontologist is using a 3-million-year-old fossil record to predict the future of Western Atlantic mollusk species. By analyzing the fossil record, the researcher hopes to identify biological and behavioral traits that gave some species evolutionary success and others extinction.

Little Ice Age study reveals North Atlantic reached a tipping point

Scientists used centuries-old clam shells to study the North Atlantic's evolution and response to external changes. The findings indicate that the system destabilized and lost resilience prior to the Little Ice Age, potentially causing it to 'tip' into a new, colder state.

Offshore wind farms expected to reduce clam fishery revenue, study finds

Two Rutgers studies project that offshore wind farms will reduce Atlantic surfclam catches by 3-15%, with losses reaching 25% in New Jersey. A spatially-explicit model, SEFES, predicts impacts on fishing behavior and revenue.

New study: 2021 heat wave created ‘perfect storm’ for shellfish die-off

A new study found that the 2021 heat wave caused widespread death among shellfish due to a combination of low tides, high air temperatures, and location. The research team analyzed hundreds of field observations and found that some species fared better than others in terms of survival.

Checking coral reef health one tile at a time

A new standardized method for measuring calcium carbonate on ocean floors can help researchers compare coral reef health globally. The 'how-to' guide enables the collection of comparable data from coral and oyster reefs worldwide, providing insights into the impacts of climate change and human activities.

Threat of bioaccumulation: New study investigates impact of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on bay scallops

Researchers evaluated the toxicological effects of BaP on bay scallops, finding increased immune response-related parameters with time at higher concentrations. The study suggests that BaP dampens the immune response of scallops and decreases their capacity to respond to oxidative stress.

California shellfish farmers adapt to climate change

Shellfish farmers in California are adapting to ocean acidification by diversifying their operations and relying on scientific resources to pinpoint environmental factors contributing to large die-off events. Growers also emphasize the need for policy changes, such as adjusting regulatory requirements and permitting processes.

How a major volcanic eruption paved the way for the rise of the dinosaurs

A massive volcanic eruption at the end of the Triassic period caused a global cooling effect, leading to the mass extinction. The event paved the way for the rise of dinosaurs as their natural predators went extinct.

Native American shell ring villages may have been occupied then abandoned because of climate change

Researchers analyzed mollusk shells at 4,000-year-old shell ring villages in Georgia and found environmental changes drove the formation and abandonment of these coastal communities. Smaller oyster shells and lower salinity conditions suggested depletion in oyster stocks and unsustainable fishing practices.

How a contagious cancer spread among clams

Researchers confirm contagious blood cancer can jump between marine clam species, with evidence suggesting human activities may contribute to the spread. The discovery highlights the potential ecological threat posed by these diseases and emphasizes the need for further studies to monitor pathogens.