Climate changes and the aquatic environment
The increasing temperature in a range of aquatic habitats has a profound impact on the production of aquatic organisms. Thus, aquaculture of many fish species will be affected due to physiological constraints of specific fish species and due to an increased occurrence of pathogens.
The disease problems derived from climate changes may not only affect production of aquatic organisms (fish, shellfish and algae) but may represent a serious threat to humans in contact with the aquatic environment due to their zoonotic potential.
LIFE researchers have a long tradition for research and education within aquatic pathobiology, aquaculture and fish diseases in which climatic factors are central elements. Aquatic zoonoses and their temperature dependence play a major role herein.
The main scientific objectives are:
- To study the effects of climate change on occurrence of aquatic zoonoses.
- To study the effects of climate change on diseases of wild and cultured fishes.
The impact studies are expected to increase knowledge and understanding of the climate sensitive host-pathogen relationship and implications for production and consumption.
Contact: Professor Anders Dalsgaard (ad@life.ku.dk)
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