The Perils of Deep-Sea Mining: Stressed Jellyfish Reveal Threats
A first-of-its-kind study suggests that deep-sea mining could harm jellyfish by disrupting their metabolism. Sediment stirred from mining sites could activate stress responses in jellyfish, leading to excessive mucus production and increased energy requirements. This could potentially lead to starvation and harm the health of jellyfish. If other gelatinous organisms in the deep ocean respond similarly, commercial harvesting of the sea floor could reduce biodiversity and threaten crucial ecosystem functions.