Using clam-based stable isotopes and growth histories to reconstruct the temporal oceanographic variability in the southern Mid-Atlantic Bight over the last 185 years

Abstract

The temperature of the coastal ocean in the southern Mid-Atlantic Bight (S-MAB) region has increased by approximately 1.3 C in the last century based on instrumental measures. This warming trend is consistent with warming in the northwestern Atlantic region, which has some of the largest and fastest warming in the North Atlantic. The S-MAB is essential for several important fisheries and other ocean-based industries, and it is currently facing increased environmental stress. Because of the limited spatial and temporal hydrographic instrumental