As Earth’s oceans continue to warm, some of the sea’s most powerful predators may face a serious survival challenge. A new study published in Science suggests that mesothermic fish, including the great white shark and tuna, are especially vulnerable to rising ocean temperatures because their bodies produce and retain large amounts of heat.
Unlike most fish, mesothermic species can keep their bodies warmer than the surrounding water. This ability gives them major advantages as hunters, allowing them to swim faster and stay active in colder environments. However, researchers from Trinity College Dublin found that these fish use about 3.8 times more energy than typical fish, producing significant internal heat.
The study found that larger mesothermic fish struggle to release this heat as ocean temperatures rise. For example, while a typical 2-ton fish can tolerate water temperatures of 27 degrees Celsius, a 1-ton mesothermic shark may begin overheating at just 17 degrees Celsius. To stay cool, the animals must swim more slowly or move into deeper, colder waters.
Scientists warn that continued ocean warming could push these species closer to extinction, especially as overfishing and habitat loss already threaten many populations.
J.K. Park Senior Reporter junior/1779261316/1613368089
1. Why are mesothermic fish vulnerable to rising ocean temperatures?
2. Which fish species struggle to release their internal heat?
3. How much more energy do mesothermic fish use daily?
4. What helps these predators stay active in colder environments?
1. Should we protect powerful fish from the global warming?
2. Do you think ocean temperatures will keep rising fast?
3. Would you like to study marine biology in university?
4. Is overfishing the biggest threat to the ocean today?
As Earth’s oceans continue to warm, some of the sea’s most powerful predators may face a serious survival challenge. A new study published in Science suggests that mesothermic fish, including the great white shark and tuna, are especially vulnerable to rising ocean temperatures because their bodies produce and retain large amounts of heat.
