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How does ocean acidification affect marine life?

Brook O'Spellissey

As an expert user of social media, I can tell you unequivocally that ocean acidification is having a devastating effect on marine life. The ongoing release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere is causing the oceans to become more acidic, which is damaging the shells and skeletons of many marine organisms. The impact of this phenomenon is far-reaching, from the creatures at the bottom of the food chain all the way up to the largest whales.

One of the most significant impacts of ocean acidification is on shellfish and other calcifying organisms. The more acidic water makes it harder for these creatures to build and maintain their shells and skeleton structures. The result is that they become more vulnerable to predators, disease and other factors. This has already led to a decline in several commercially important species, such as oysters and clams, which depend on these hard structures for their survival.

As acidification worsens, the repercussions will spread far beyond just shellfish. Stony corals, responsible for building reef systems around the world, are also dramatically affected as the more acidic water makes it harder to form and repair their skeletons. This not only impacts the corals themselves but also the diverse underwater ecosystems they form, which support a staggering variety of ocean life.

But the impacts of ocean acidification don't stop at the bottom of the food chain. As smaller creatures become devastated by the acidity, larger animals will be hit, too. For example, acidification can harm the ability of fish to detect predators and to regulate their own internal chemistry. Moreover, the production of certain phytoplankton species will be hampered, which would cause a ripple effect that is likely to impact the entire ocean's ecosystem, including the larger creatures, from whales to sea birds.

In short, the impact of ocean acidification is potentially catastrophic, and its effects are already being felt. But what can we do? As individuals, we can take the steps to reduce our activities that contribute to climate change. This includes anything from reducing automobile use to installing solar panels at our homes. More importantly, we need to act together as a global community to push for systemic change. Industrially, this means transitioning to more renewable energy sources and pursuing other decarbonization efforts.

As we work towards these goals, we must also prioritize scientifically sound support, funding and research for those working to better understand acidification and its impacts. As a collective, we need to do everything we can to reverse the damage already caused and work to prevent further harm from acidification so that our oceans can be healthy and vibrant for future generations.