A Bold New Journey for the Turbo Sazae

Once a staple of the rocky coasts of Jeju Island, the top shell snail known as Turbo sazae is on the move—heading northward as ocean temperatures soar. Cutting-edge research from the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST) points to climate change as the driving force behind this significant shift.

Connecting the Dots: Genetic Evidence Unveiled

Genetic analyses reveal a fascinating story of connectivity among snail populations. A recent study published in the journal *Animals* demonstrates that the Turbo sazae’s migration isn’t merely a recent phenomenon but is deeply rooted in its evolutionary history and oceanic current dynamics. KIOST President Hyi Seung Lee stated, "Rising sea temperatures, driven by climate change, fundamentally impact our marine ecosystems."

Mapping the Genetic Ties

Researchers collected samples from six locations, including Jeju and the East Sea, employing mitochondrial DNA to create comprehensive haplotype maps. What they found was striking: a dominant genetic variant, EJ1, was present in 60% of Jeju snails and 50% of those from the East Sea. These results underscore a shared genetic foundation, suggesting more than just a warm-water connection.

Currents of Change: How Oceans Shape Life

The currents of the Kuroshio and Tsushima play a pivotal role in dispersing the larvae of Turbo sazae. With a larval stage of just 3 to 5 days, these snails can travel extensively along ocean currents before settling. This natural conveyor belt preserves genetic continuity across vast distances, leading to low differentiation between populations in Jeju and the East Sea.

Unique Habitats, Unique Genes

While genetic similarities abound, some areas like Dokdo and Wangdolcho show signs of distinct haplotypes. Unique geographical formations and the behavior of underwater currents might create localized barriers, shaping specialized adaptations in these snail populations over time.

Climate Crisis: Eroding Snail Resilience

Once thought to be the result of dietary changes, recent findings have shifted the blame for declining populations around Jeju to the warming ocean waters, which severely compromise the snails’ immune systems. A study in *Marine Environmental Research* revealed that as temperatures rise, so does the vulnerability of Turbo sazae to environmental stressors.

Accelerated Migration: Snails on the Move

Between 2009 and 2018, Turbo sazae expanded its range at an astonishing rate of 12.4 kilometers per year—an impressive feat for a marine mollusk. This surge correlates with regional sea surface temperatures increasing by 0.38°C per decade, creating new habitats where snails once struggled for survival.

A Call for Conservation Amid Climate Change

The implications of this research are significant. It shows that Jeju is a crucial source for new East Sea populations, emphasizing the need for integrated management strategies that recognize genetic connectivity. Yet, conservation efforts must remain vigilant about local ecological variations, focusing on monitoring and protecting unique habitats from further degradation.

An Evolving Marine Ecosystem

As ocean conditions evolve, so too do the species that inhabit them. Turbo sazae's adaptations provide a window into the broader consequences of climate change on marine life. According to KIOST President Hyi Seung Lee, understanding these shifts is essential for safeguarding the future of our oceans and the creatures that call them home.

Research results are published in the journal *Animals*. Stay informed about this pressing environmental issue and more with our exclusive updates!