Oct. 20, 2021

SUFB 1224: Measuring changes 5 Years after the Blob

SUFB 1224: Measuring changes 5 Years after the Blob

The Blob, a massive heatwave in the Pacific Ocean raised the average sea surface temperature by 2-4C and changed the distribution of some species.  The Blob raised the temperature in cooler waters as well as the direction of currents. These...

The Blob, a massive heatwave in the Pacific Ocean raised the average sea surface temperature by 2-4C and changed the distribution of some species. 

The Blob raised the temperature in cooler waters as well as the direction of currents. These changes allowed for species in the south to move north as their habitat was suitable. 

New species could outcompete species that are already found in the northern waters. They could grow and reproduce faster, which will cause some resident species to disappear from the area. 

There will be a Blob 2.0. The question is will the research currently being conducted allow for the prediction of where species will move to and settle next?

Link to article: https://theconversation.com/five-years-after-largest-marine-heatwave-on-record-hit-northern-california-coast-many-warm-water-species-have-stuck-around-168053

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