What effect does ocean acidification have on marine life?

Ocean acidification primarily occurs due to the increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which leads to higher amounts of CO2 being absorbed by the oceans. This process lowers the pH of seawater, making it more acidic. The increased acidity has significant effects on various marine organisms, especially those that rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells and skeletons, such as mollusks, urchins, and corals.

The correct response highlights that ocean acidification can decrease the ability of these species to build their shells. When the pH of the ocean drops, the concentration of carbonate ions, which are crucial for shell formation, also decreases. This shortage makes it more difficult for organisms to extract the necessary materials to form their shells, resulting in thinner, weaker shells and potentially impacting survival rates.

In contrast, stating that ocean acidification enhances growth in all marine species misrepresents the evidence, as many species, particularly calcifying organisms, experience detrimental effects. Similarly, asserting that ocean acidification will lead to more vibrant coral reefs overlooks the challenges corals face due to increased acidity, which can lead to coral bleaching and reduced calcification rates. Lastly, claiming that there is no impact on marine organisms disregards substantial scientific research demonstrating the adverse