Ontogenetic δ15N Trends and Multidecadal Variability in Shells of the Bivalve Mollusk, Arctica islandica

 Bulk stable nitrogen isotope data in shell of bivalve mollusk, Arctica islandica, reveal an ontogenetic trend toward lower values (-0.006‰ per year) as well as a strong link to multidecadal ocean variability, i.e., a cyclic change (up to 2.9‰) of shell nitrogen that follow swings of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation as well as the Atlantic Multidecadal Variation.

The ontogenetic trend is likely associated with a change in protein composition throughout the bivalves' lifetime and needs to be considered when nitrogen data or bulk shell organics are used to interpret changes in food web structure, anthropogenic pollution of marine ecosystems and hydrographic changes. The latest research was published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science.

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