Why are scientists studying the pH level of our oceans? What are they finding?
Scientists are studying the pH level of our oceans to monitor the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the burning of fossil fuels. When carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, it dissolves in seawater, causing it to become more acidic. This increase in acidity is called ocean acidification. Ocean acidification can inhibit the growth and survival of marine organisms like corals, plankton, and shellfish, which can ultimately disrupt ocean ecosystems and reduce biodiversity.
Recent studies have shown that ocean acidification is already affecting marine ecosystems, and it could have profound effects on the world's fisheries and the livelihoods of people who depend on them. Some of the findings of these studies are an increase in the acidity of ocean water, a decline in the pH levels of seawater, and reduced growth and reproduction rates of marine creatures such as oysters, lobsters, and scallops. The effects of ocean acidification are likely to become more severe in the coming years, affecting food webs and possibly leading to a decline in marine biodiversity.