Ocean Acidification
What is Ocean Acidification?
Ocean acidification is the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to the absorption of excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. This change in pH can harm marine life, especially organisms with calcium carbonate shells, like corals and shellfish.
When Oceans Get Too Acidic
Ocean acidification happens when the ocean absorbs too much carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the air. This extra CO₂ mixes with seawater and makes it more acidic. It’s like adding lemon juice to water—it changes the water’s chemistry, and it can hurt marine life.
How Ocean Acidification Happens
Burning fuels like coal, oil, and gas releases CO₂ into the atmosphere. Some of this CO₂ gets absorbed by the ocean. Normally, the ocean can handle a little CO₂, but too much causes problems. The water becomes more acidic, making it harder for some animals to survive.
Why Ocean Acidification Is a Problem
Acidic water can harm creatures that rely on calcium to build their shells or skeletons, like:
- Corals: Struggle to build reefs, which are homes for many sea animals.
- Clams, Oysters, and Mussels: Their shells can weaken or stop growing.
- Plankton: Tiny creatures at the base of the food chain can be affected, impacting the whole ecosystem.
How It Affects Ocean Life
- Fish may lose habitats like coral reefs.
- Animals higher up the food chain, like whales or seabirds, might struggle to find enough food if plankton and shellfish die off.
- Whole ecosystems can become unbalanced, harming marine biodiversity.
Why Ocean Acidification Matters to You
Ocean acidification doesn’t just affect sea life—it impacts humans too.
- Seafood: Fewer healthy shellfish like oysters and shrimp for us to eat.
- Coastal Protection: Weak coral reefs mean less protection against strong waves and storms.
- Jobs: Industries like fishing and tourism suffer when ocean ecosystems decline.