Are marine organisms evolving to protect their young in response to ocean acidification?

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-08/uop-amo081215.php

Public Release: 12-Aug-2015
Are marine organisms evolving to protect their young in response to ocean acidification?
University of Plymouth

Marine organisms living in acidified waters exhibit a tendency to nurture their offspring to a greater extent than those in more regular conditions.

Researchers at Plymouth University have found that polychaete worms located around volcanic vents in the Mediterranean grow and develop their eggs within the protection of the family unit - in contrast to closely-related species that release them into the water column to fend for themselves.

The scientists say the findings could provide an important insight into how organisms might adjust to increasing levels of carbon dioxide in the sea - and the ramifications that might have for future biodiversity.

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