Ocean acidification affects marine biodiversity and coral reef ecosystems in several ways. As the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased levels of carbon dioxide dissolving into the water, marine organisms such as corals, shellfish, and some species of plankton find it harder to build and maintain their calcium carbonate structures. This can lead to weaker shells, slower growth rates, and even reproductive issues for these organisms.
Coral reefs, which are particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification, suffer from decreased calcification rates and increased bleaching events, making them more susceptible to erosion and damage. This can disrupt the delicate balance of coral reef ecosystems, leading to a decline in biodiversity as coral-dependent species struggle to survive. Overall, ocean acidification poses a significant threat to marine biodiversity and the health of coral reef ecosystems.
