December 19, 2014
Ocean Roundup: Chevron Withdraws Drilling Plans from the Arctic, Peru Issues Ban on Shrimp Fishing, and More
– Chevron has withdrawn its plans for oil drilling in the Beaufort Sea because of “economic uncertainty” and low oil prices. Chevron sent a letter to Canada’s National Energy Board earlier this week, saying it was cancelling plans to drill about 155 miles northwest of Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories. Reuters
– Peru has issued a ban on shrimp fishing until mid-February. Officials made the move to help protect shrimp during its breeding season and ensure the longevity of the population, and the ban extends to several species. FIS
– The Australian Senate issued recommendations for restaurants to be required to list country of origin for fish and chip platters. Grocery stores and fish markets are required to list country of origins for raw fish, but restaurants, fish and chip shops, and other venues are currently exempt. The Guardian
– A new study found that oysters are most sensitive to ocean acidification at the early stages of their shell growth, which they start growing shortly after fertilization. Acidic waters require oysters to expend more energy on their shell growth, taking away from their abilities to swim and find food. Discovery News