Climate change affects marine life in various ways, including:
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Warming ocean temperatures: Rising global temperatures lead to increased sea surface temperatures, which can disrupt marine ecosystems and species distribution.
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Ocean acidification: Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are absorbed by the oceans, leading to ocean acidification. This can harm marine life, especially those with calcium carbonate shells like corals and shellfish.
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Changes in ocean currents: Climate change can alter ocean currents, affecting the distribution of nutrients and food sources for marine animals.
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Loss of habitat: Rising sea levels and changes in temperature can lead to the loss of critical habitats like coral reefs, mangroves, and estuaries, impacting the species that rely on these areas for survival.
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Changes in migration patterns: Marine species may be forced to migrate to new areas in search of suitable habitat and food sources as their current habitats become uninhabitable due to climate change.
Overall, climate change poses a significant threat to marine life, affecting biodiversity, ecosystem balance, and the overall health of the oceans.