Ocean Acidification- Investigation 14

What is ocean acidification?

The increased in carbon dioxide absorption drops the ocean pH levels.

As carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases, what happens to the carbon dioxide levels in the ocean?

Increases

As carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases, what happens to the pH level in the ocean?

Decreases

What is the pH of a healthy ocean?

8.1

How does ocean acidification affect coral?

Coral bleaching

How does coral bleaching affect other marine life?

Habitat loss, reduced food sources, decline in fish population

Where is the Great Barrier Reef?

Australia

What is an animal the lives on the Great Barrier Reef?

Coral

What are 3 factors that are influencing the decline of the Great Barrier Reef?

Ocean acidification, pollution and sediment, and climate change

Can you see the Great Barrier Reef from space?

Yes

What is coral bleaching?

When coral reefs expel their algae due to stress or overheating, exposing the polyps.

Is coral an animal?

Yes

What type of relationship does coral and photosynthetic algae have?

Symbiotic/mutualistic