Rising temperatures from climate collapse are leading to ‘increasing diversity’ Vibrio Bacteria that could harm human health in waters around the UK, New research shows.
The study, led by the University of Exeter, found two Vibrio Species – Rotifer Vibrio and Vibrio jesida – have never been recorded in British waters before.
These species can harm marine life such as shellfish, but Vibrio Species also raise concerns about human health.
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Some Vibrio Bacteria can cause gastroenteritis in raw or undercooked shellfish, and bacteria can also cause skin infections.
The researchers say the spread Vibrio Species causing ‘global surge’ in Vibrio infections in humans and aquatic animals.
“Vibrio Species can usually be found in UK waters in summer, when temperatures are more favourable for them,” said Dr. Sariqa Wagley, University of Exeter.
“As sea surface temperatures rise due to climate change, Vibrio Activity in waters is more prevalent and biodiversity Vibrio Species are now increasing. “
The study used data from the Bureau of Meteorology to determine whether summer sea surface temperatures would be beneficial Vibrio Bacteria, based on the number of days per year with an average temperature above 18°C.
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The researchers then analysed shellfish samples from four sites used by the shellfish industry – Chichester Harbour, Ossie Island, Whitstable Bay and Lyme Bay.
“we discover Vibrio parahaemolyticus – Port of Chichester – leading cause of seafood-borne gastroenteritis globally,” Dr Wagley said.
“Vibrio alginolyticusThe substance was found at three locations with sea surface temperatures above 18°C - Chichester Harbour, Ossie Island and Whitstable Bay – and may also cause disease in humans.
“It is important to note that thorough cooking will kill harmful Vibrio Bacteria in seafood.
“However, an increasing number of species and diversity Vibrio Bacteria pose health risks not only to those who eat seafood, but also to those who use the ocean for recreational purposes – either by swallowing infected seawater or by bacteria entering exposed wounds or Wound.
pathogen
“Vibrio Bacteria also pose a threat to a variety of marine species, including shellfish. Disease costs the global aquaculture industry £6 billion a year, and the disease burden can be devastating.
“We haven’t seen shellfish die off in large numbers because Vibrio Bacteria haven’t happened in the UK yet, but this has happened elsewhere – including France and Australia. “
Dr Wagley added: “Our findings support the hypothesis that: VibrioAssociated diseases are increasing and are being affected by rising sea surface temperatures.
“We need to monitor this situation closely to protect human health, marine biodiversity and the seafood industry.”
Dr Joanne Preston, from the University of Portsmouth, said: “Monitoring the impact of rising sea surface temperatures on potential shellfish pathogens is important, not only for human health and safety, but also to understand the impact of our coastal species and habitats. Resilience. Climate change.”
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Dr Luke Helmer, from the Blue Ocean Foundation and the University of Portsmouth, added: “The impact of climate change on the marine environment is likely to be widespread.
“Understanding how these changes will affect ecologically and commercially important species and the people who depend on them will be critical in order to mitigate their effects.”
The research, funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), was supported by Chichester and Havant Council and Sussex Offshore Fisheries and Conservation.
The paper is published in the journal water research, entitled: “Increase in Vibrio species and first report Vibrio jesida and Rotifer Vibrio Shellfish establishments in the UK. “
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Brendan Montague is ecologist. This article is based on a press release from the University of Exeter.
picture: Local oysters in Chichester Harbour.Credit to Dr Luke Helmer
