Anthropogenic activities are increasing ocean temperatures and decreasing available oxygen in the ocean. Organisms in commercial fisheries may not be able to adapt to elevated temperatures. This study examined the physiological response of female stone crabs (Menippe mercenaria) to elevated temperatures (24℃-33℃). Metabolic rate was measured through closed respirometry by recording the rate of oxygen consumption (mg O2 hr-1). Hemolymph was extracted to measure lactate and protein serum concentrations. The reflex action mortality predictor test (RAMP) was performed to measure external stress. Under elevated temperatures it was found that stone crabs had higher lactate (171.88%) and protein levels (16.13%), with RAMP scores in normal ranges. Oxygen consumption increased under higher temperatures, leading to concerns of mortality in hypoxic environments. These findings suggest that adult stone crabs may have difficulty adapting to warming ocean temperatures, causing sustainability issues for commercial fisheries.

For more information:  jmballard@eckerd.edu