Rising ocean acidity threatens oyster industry: report
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The New South Wales south coast oyster industry says it is worried by the latest report on the effects of climate change.
New research by Sydney marine biologist Laura Parker and the state's Department of Primary Industries (DPI) shows rising acidity levels in seawater is posing a threat to production.
The research showed fertility levels of Sydney rock oysters fall sharply when they are exposed to even small rises in acidity.
Eurobodalla oyster farmer Kevin McAsh says he wants more information on the problem, but is confident that selective breeding will produce oysters that can cope with the changed conditions.
"The oyster farming industry in general have been thinking about global warming and climate change," he said.
"We are concerned about genetics and we are certainly concerned about increased mortality in our oysters.
"But I am sure that DPI Fisheries would be looking at this in terms of the genetic improvement of oysters so that we can avoid large mortalities if this acidity increases."
