Ocean Acidification Effects on Marine Molluscs, Crustaceans & Corals

What is ocean acidification?

The increase in carbon dioxide and decrease in the pH of ocean water.

How much has the ocean's surface pH dropped due to human activities?

By 0.1 pH.

What human activities contribute to ocean acidification?

Carbon emissions, deforestation, and polluted runoff.

What chemical reaction occurs when excess carbon dioxide enters the ocean?

It forms carbonic acid, which reduces the availability of carbonate ions.

Why are carbonate ions important for marine organisms?

They are essential for calcifying shells or skeletons.

What negative effects do molluscs face due to ocean acidification?

Depletion of carbonate ions affects their shell hardening, especially in vulnerable larvae.

What are byssal threads in molluscs?

Structures that help them adhere to surfaces and avoid being swept away.

How does ocean acidification affect crustaceans?

It damages mechanoreceptors, leading to foraging difficulties and increased predation risk.

What impact does ocean acidification have on the molting process of crustaceans?

Enzymes like chitinase are produced in lower quantities, slowing down exoskeleton breakdown.

How do corals respond to ocean acidification?

They experience reduced aragonite availability, weakening their skeletons.

What are the consequences of weakened coral reefs?

Increased vulnerability to physical and chemical damage, including bleaching.

What is aragonite?

A form of calcium carbonate that corals use to build their skeletons.

What happens to marine organisms that rely on carbonate ions for calcification?

They suffer from weakened structures and increased mortality risk.

What is the significance of the first 48 hours in the life of molluscs?

It is a critical period when larvae are most vulnerable to predators.

What role do strong currents play in the survival of molluscs?

They can sweep away molluscs that cannot adhere properly due to weakened byssal threads.

How does ocean acidification affect the overall health of marine ecosystems?

It disrupts the balance of marine life, leading to declines in biodiversity and ecosystem services.

What is the long-term impact of ocean acidification on marine biodiversity?

It may lead to shifts in species composition and loss of sensitive species.

What is the relationship between ocean acidification and climate change?

Ocean acidification is a direct consequence of increased carbon dioxide emissions, which also drive climate change.

What measures can be taken to mitigate ocean acidification?

Reducing carbon emissions and improving coastal management practices.