Draft:Ocean Acidification

Ocean acidification, a consequence of escalating carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, is triggering profound changes in marine ecosystems and wildlife. As the oceans absorb excess CO2, the chemical balance of the water is altered, causing a decrease in pH. This acidification process has a particularly detrimental impact on marine organisms that rely on calcium carbonate for their shells and skeletons, including corals, mollusks, and certain types of plankton. The increased acidity makes it challenging for these species to build and maintain their protective structures, leading to weakened shells and compromised resilience. The repercussions extend throughout the marine food web, affecting species at various trophic levels. From disrupting the formation of coral reefs to impairing the growth and development of shell-forming creatures, ocean acidification is reshaping the dynamics of marine life in ways that could have cascading effects on biodiversity and ecosystem health.