Impact of Ocean Warming on Turbo Sazae and Marine Biodiversity

Ocean warming is significantly altering marine ecosystems, compelling various species, including the Turbo sazae, to migrate into new territories. According to a study conducted by the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), the Turbo sazae, once prevalent along the rocky shores of Jeju Island, is now moving northward in response to rising sea temperatures driven by climate change. This phenomenon underscores a broader trend of oceanic changes that threaten marine biodiversity.

The research, published in the journal *Animals*, reveals that genetic evidence links the Turbo sazae populations of Jeju and the East Sea, indicating a shared ancestry. Dr. Hyi Seung Lee, President of KIOST, remarked, “Climate change-driven rises in sea temperatures are a core variable in the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.” The study highlights the importance of understanding these shifts as they relate to the evolutionary history and ecological dynamics of marine life.

Between 2009 and 2018, the Turbo sazae expanded its range northward at an astonishing rate of 12.4 kilometers per year, corresponding with a rise in sea surface temperatures of 0.38°C per decade in the region. This rapid migration is not merely a recent event but is tied to deeper evolutionary processes and ocean current dynamics. The researchers collected samples from six locations, utilizing mitochondrial DNA (COI) to construct haplotype maps that demonstrate genetic continuity despite the geographical distance.

The findings also indicated that ocean currents, such as the Kuroshio and Tsushima, play a crucial role in the dispersal of Turbo sazae larvae. These currents facilitate the movement of larvae into new habitats during their early planktonic stages. The study indicated that the strong genetic overlap between Jeju and East Sea populations suggests these regions share more than just warm waters; they are interconnected through a common genetic lineage.

However, the study also highlights emerging concerns. Some populations, particularly those at Dokdo and Wangdolcho, showed early signs of genetic differentiation, possibly due to local environmental factors that could limit gene flow. This differentiation raises questions about how unique traits may develop in isolated populations over time, influenced by the underwater topography and dynamic currents in those areas.

Moreover, the research posits that the warming waters have detrimental effects on the immune systems of Turbo sazae, making them more vulnerable to environmental stresses. Previous studies had suggested that dietary changes due to habitat degradation were responsible for population declines; however, the KIOST findings indicate that temperature increases are the primary driver of these adverse effects.

The implications of these findings are far-reaching. They suggest that conservation strategies must account for the interconnectedness of marine populations across regions. Management practices should prioritize habitat protection and consider the genetic continuity between populations to ensure the resilience of marine ecosystems.

In summary, as climate change continues to reshape marine environments, species like Turbo sazae are adapting by relocating to more favorable habitats. This phenomenon not only sheds light on the adaptability of marine life but also emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive conservation strategies to protect these vulnerable ecosystems. Dr. Lee concluded, “Our findings will deepen scientific understanding of how sea life distribution is changing and support ongoing efforts to protect marine ecosystems.”

The study serves as a crucial reminder of the impacts of climate change on oceanic life and highlights the necessity of proactive measures to mitigate these effects.