The ocean is becoming the property of squid – study
New computer modeling of ecosystems has refuted previous theories about the expansion of squid in the world's oceans. The study showed that the key factor is not warming water, but the disappearance of large predators due to overfishing, which led to a surge in the number of small fish—an ideal food base for squid.
New computer modeling of the world's ocean ecosystems has overturned previous scientific ideas about the causes of squid expansion. The study, conducted by a team led by biologist Remy Denesher from the University of Adelaide, showed that the key factor is not water warming, but the disappearance of large predatory fish due to overfishing. The reduction of predators led to a sharp surge in the number of small fish, which became an ideal food base for squid, which consume up to a third of their body weight per day. Contrary to popular theories, rising ocean temperatures harm squid by accelerating their metabolism and requiring more energy. Squid grow 5 times faster than ordinary fish and live 1–2 years, allowing them to quickly colonize waters emptied by fishing. However, long-term climate changes and food shortages may limit the growth of their populations in the future.