As climate change affects habitats, fisheries species face change, too.
The Chesapeake Bay is home to more than 3,600 species of plants and animals. That includes 348 species of finfish, 173 species of shellfish, and more than 16 species of underwater grasses. It’s a vibrant ecosystem that has supported healthy fisheries for a long time. It has provided people with lots of great seafood, and supported many people who make a living in the seafood industry.
But climate change is affecting Chesapeake Bay habitats and, in turn, the species that rely on them. As habitats change, some species find challenges, while others may see opportunities.
We are already seeing some changes in the Chesapeake Bay. Sea level rise brings salt water to marshes that aren’t used to higher salinity. Plant and tree species that can’t migrate to less salty, newly inundated areas die. Grasses and other herbaceous plants stand a better chance of migrating, unless they run into a barrier like a road or housing development.
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Image via NOAA Fisheries
