The process through which the ocean's pH falls as a result of absorbing too much carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is known as ocean acidification. This phenomenon poses a serious threat to marine ecosystems and harms marine life, particularly corals and shellfish, which have calcium carbonate shells or skeletons. The entire marine food web is disrupted because the lower pH makes it difficult for them to create and maintain their structures.

Mechanisms of Ocean Acidification:

Ocean acidification, a phenomenon brought on by too much CO2 being absorbed by saltwater. Seawater's pH is lowered and becomes more acidic as a result of carbon dioxide dissolving in the ocean and forming carbonic acid. In particular, creatures with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, including coral reefs and some plankton species, are badly impacted by this increasing acidity in the ocean. Ocean acidification seriously jeopardizes biodiversity and marine ecosystems, upsetting the delicate balance of marine life.

Ocean Acidification's causes:

The disruption in food web is mainly due to excessive emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) from human activity, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. The seas take up a large percentage of these CO2 emissions, which triggers a chemical reaction that lowers the pH of the saltwater and increases its acidity. Marine ecosystems are in danger because marine creatures, such as corals and shellfish, are unable to construct and maintain their shells and skeletons in this acidic climate.

Biological Effects of Seawater Chemistry:

Dissolved carbon dioxide, carbonate, and bicarbonate ions have an impact on the acid-base chemistry of seawater. These substances work together to create a buffering mechanism that controls the pH of the ocean. When carbon dioxide is dissolved in seawater, carbonic acid is produced, which keeps the pH around 8.1 fairly steady. Although it might seem like a little change, the acidity has increased by 30% as a result. Ocean acidification, which has an impact on marine life and ecosystems, can result from changes in seawater pH caused by variations in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.

Effects on Marine Organisms:

Marine animals are seriously at risk from ocean acidification, especially those that depend on calcium carbonate for their skeletons and shells. Calcium carbonate formations dissolve as a result of the ocean's increased acidity as a result of higher carbon dioxide absorption. Corals, mollusks, and some planktonic species are negatively impacted by this, which compromises their capacity to construct and maintain their protective structures. In the end, this compromises the diversity and stability of marine life and disturbs marine ecosystems.

Ocean acidification, rising sea temperatures, and pollution are only a few of the causes that have serious consequences for corals, mollusks and plankton populations. These marine animals struggle with issues like coral bleaching, decreased calcification in mollusks, and shattered plankton food systems. These effects put in jeopardy the ecosystems, biodiversity, and way of life for millions of people who depend on healthy oceans for food and business. To preserve these important marine communities, immediate conservation measures are needed.

Ocean acidification and Coral reefs:

Coral reefs are severely threatened by ocean acidification, which has an impact on their growth and health. Coral calcification is hampered by the reduced pH values that result from carbon dioxide dissolving in seawater. They are less able to recuperate from perturbations and are more susceptible to physical harm due to their fragile skeletal structure. The symbiotic interaction between corals and algae is further hampered by acidification, which also causes bleaching events and a reduction in the availability of nutrients.

            Coral reefs are important ecosystems that harbor a wide variety of marine life, defend coastlines, and generate income from tourism and fishing. They can become more vulnerable to coastal erosion and storm damage, lose their biodiversity, and have fewer fish populations as a result of their decline. Millions of people rely on these ecosystems for food and income; therefore, the collapse of coral reefs threatens their way of life. The preservation of these priceless ecosystems depends on quick conservation action.

At-Risk Marine Biodiversity:

 Due to its propensity to upset the delicate balance of marine ecosystems, ocean acidification poses serious dangers to marine biodiversity and food webs. Ocean acidity increases as carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater and generates carbonic acid, which lowers pH levels. The ability of many marine animals, including corals, mollusks, and plankton, to form shells or skeletons may be badly impacted by this acidification. Herbivores, carnivores, and ultimately apex predators are impacted as a result of primary producers and foundation species suffering. Because marine ecosystems are made up of interrelated species, it is clear how vulnerable they are to the cascading impacts of ocean acidification, which lower biodiversity and cause ecological imbalances.

Because it interferes with fish's capacity to create shells and skeletons and affects their ability to grow and reproduce, ocean acidification poses serious challenges to fish populations. Acidification also alters fish behavior, which can result in habitat loss. Due to depleted fish stocks, the fishing industry experiences decreased catches and financial losses.

Fisheries and Fish:

Communities that depend on marine resources struggle with food shortages, job losses, and unstable economies. Furthermore, traditional practices and cultural identity may be disrupted in coastal civilizations. To address these issues and protect the well-being of coastal people, adaptation strategies like sustainable fishing methods and livelihood diversification are essential.

 Important ecosystem services provided by marine ecosystems include fisheries that support coastal communities, storm protection for the coast, and carbon sequestration to slow down climate change. These services are threatened by ocean acidification, which is principally brought about by excessive carbon dioxide absorption. Fish populations are impacted, and fisheries are in danger as a result of the disruption of marine food networks. Communities are at risk from increased storm damage and erosion because coral reefs, which are crucial for coastal protection, are also vulnerable to acidification. Additionally, changed pH levels can prevent carbon sequestration, worsening the effects of climate change. Coastal communities are more vulnerable to natural disasters, have dwindling fish stocks, and are at risk economically and ecologically. Rapid action is necessary to reduce ocean acidification, protect livelihoods reliant on the marine environment, and preserve coastal ecosystems.

Ocean Algal Roles:

By absorbing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, algae play a significant role in reducing the impacts of ocean acidification. This procedure aids in lowering the acidity of the nearby water by lowering the CO2 levels. Additionally, certain algae species have calcium carbonate shells that can protect against acidification by functioning as buffers. But several obstacles prevent them from becoming effective. Algae's capacity to absorb CO2 can be disrupted by pollution and rising ocean temperatures. Additionally, because it affects specific algal species' development and survival rates, ocean acidification itself puts them in danger. Although they play a crucial role, algae must be protected from environmental stressors to reach their full potential in reducing ocean acidification

Strategies for Adaptation and Mitigation:

Global efforts must concentrate on lowering CO2 emissions through the adoption of sustainable energy sources, increased usage of electric vehicles, and reforestation to solve ocean acidification. The coordination of these activities is greatly aided by international treaties like the Paris Agreement. Local conservation efforts, including setting up marine protected zones, encouraging ethical fishing methods, and reducing coastal runoff, can aid in preventing the future deterioration of marine ecosystems. Campaigns for public awareness and education are also crucial for building support for these activities and cultivating a sense of accountability for the well-being of the oceans. Cooperation between governments, businesses, and citizens is essential to addressing this pressing environmental issue.

Public Awareness and Conservation:

To protect marine ecosystems and the well-being of our world, it is essential to raise awareness about ocean acidification. Seawater becomes more acidic as excess carbon dioxide dissolves, harming coral reefs and marine life. People can raise awareness of this problem by participating in community activities, education, and social media. Ocean acidification can be lessened by adopting sustainable practices like lowering carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy, and practising ethical fishing. To protect the oceans and ensure a sustainable future for future generations, communities must work together, encourage eco-friendly behaviours and support legislation that prioritizes marine conservation.

Conclusion:

Ocean acidification results from the oceans' increased uptake of carbon dioxide, which changes the chemistry of saltwater. Marine habitats are gravely threatened by this occurrence. The growth of creatures that create shells, such as corals, mollusks, and some types of plankton, is hampered by acidification, which affects food chains and biodiversity. Additionally, it hurts marine mammals and fish, making it harder for them to find food and avoid predators.

 Future generations must protect our oceans because they are essential for regulating the climate, supplying food, and supporting a variety of living forms. Reducing carbon emissions, regulating sustainable fishing methods, establishing marine protected zones, and raising public awareness are all parts of taking action. A healthy planet and the continuation of the wealth of resources and natural beauty for future generations are ensured by maintaining our oceans.

About the Author:

Khatija tul Kubra and Shiza Hameed are undergraduate students of Environmental sciences at Government College University Faisalabad.

Sunil Tahir is a postgraduate scholar in Environmental science as well as a passionate activist of biodiversity conservation.