Ocean acidification (OA), driven by increasing atmospheric CO₂ absorption into marine waters, poses a significant threat to calcifying organisms, including oysters. This study investigates the effects of OA on Crassostrea tulipa, a key species in West African estuaries, by assessing shell formation, growth rates, and survival under varying pH conditions. Field and laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate carbonate chemistry fluctuations in oyster habitats and their correlation with shell integrity, using sclerochronology and stable isotope analysis. Preliminary findings suggest that reduced pHlevels lead to shell dissolution, thinner shells, and slower growth rates, raising concerns about the sustainability of wild and farmed oyster populations. These results highlight the need for conservation strategies, such as habitat restoration and selective breeding for acidification resilience, to safeguard oyster fisheries and coastal ecosystems in the region.

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