Photo by Jonathan Borba

Scientists at Plymouth Marine Laboratory have reported that seafloor temperatures around the UK are rising significantly, posing new risks to marine ecosystems. The study, which analysed decades of oceanographic data, found that warming is not confined to surface waters but is increasingly affecting habitats on the seabed.

Researchers warned that these changes could have profound implications for species such as shellfish, starfish and bottom-dwelling fish, which are particularly sensitive to temperature shifts. “We are seeing the ocean floor heating up at a rate that could push many species beyond their thermal limits,” scientists told Hits Radio.

The study emphasises that warming seas alter oxygen levels, food availability and the distribution of species, potentially reshaping ecosystems and commercial fisheries. Some populations may decline sharply, while others may shift northwards or into deeper waters, creating knock-on effects across the food web.

Researchers say the findings highlight the need for more comprehensive monitoring of sub-surface ocean conditions, which have historically received less attention than surface temperature records. The results will feed into ongoing work assessing how UK waters are changing under climate pressure and could inform future marine management and adaptation strategies.