AUGUSTA (AP) — A legislative panel will consider the possibility of creating a permanent council with a focus on ocean acidification, which some scientists and lawmakers say is a threat to the state’s seafood industry.

The Joint Standing Committee on Marine Resources is meeting on Wednesday to consider the creation of the Ocean Acidification Council. The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration defines chemical changes in the ocean as a result of carbon dioxide emissions as “ocean acidification.”

State Rep. Michael G. Devin is a member of the marine resources committee. The Democrat from Newcastle has said changing ocean chemistry could endanger economically important marine species. He has also said protecting lobsters and clams is especially important because of Maine’s tourism economy.