Shrimply the Best!

Our project investigates the effects of climate change on local organisms, with a focus on the impact of rising atmospheric CO2 levels on marine life. Atmospheric CO2 levels have been rising significantly over the past century, resulting in lower ocean pH. We examined how ocean acidification impacts the feeding behavior of grass shrimp (Palaemonetes paludosus). We hypothesized that increased acidity would disrupt shrimp feeding behavior. In our experiment, shrimp were placed in water tanks with pH levels of 6.5, 6.0, and 5.0, and their time to find food and their latency to begin searching for food in an M-shaped maze was measured. Results showed that shrimp in pH 6.5 began searching and reached food fastest, while those in pH 6.0 and 5.0 took longer. The study indicates that lower pH levels impair shrimp feeding behavior, which could threaten their survival and disrupt the marine ecosystems in which they are vital.