Articles tagged with Ocean Acidification
New research suggests that some corals and their symbiotic algae have an in-built mechanism to cope with ocean acidification. However, coralline algae and a large class of plankton appear vulnerable to rising acidity, posing concerns for marine life and the oceans' ability to absorb CO2.
Scientists have found evidence that ocean acidification is happening faster today than in the last 300 million years, with potential consequences for coral reefs and other marine life. The oceans are acting like a sponge to draw down excess carbon dioxide, but at an alarming rate, putting these ecosystems at risk.
The research reveals that ocean acidification is happening at a faster rate than in the past 300 million years, with severe effects on marine organisms. Acidification harms shell-building species like corals and molluscs, as well as phytoplankton species, which are essential to the marine trophic network.
Researchers assessed climate change events over 300 million years, finding current ocean acidification is potentially unparalleled. Laboratory experiments suggest impacts on marine organisms, including slower growth and dissolution of carbonate shells.
A new study finds that the world's oceans may be turning acidic faster today from human carbon emissions than during four major extinctions in the last 300 million years. This could lead to the loss of organisms such as coral reefs, oysters, and salmon. The ocean acidification rate is at least 10 times faster than 56 million years ago.
Research by UBC scientists finds that adding ocean acidification and deoxygenation to climate change projections can significantly reduce fish catch potential in certain regions. For example, the Norwegian Sea may see a 15% decrease in fisheries catch potential due to combined effects of warming and acidification.
University of Miami graduate student Sean Bignami has been awarded a $5,000 scholarship from the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation to study the effects of ocean acidification on large marine fish. He plans to share his research with decision-makers and engage in outreach programs to promote public awareness of marine science.
An international team of scientists found that human-induced CO2 emissions have increased ocean acidity far beyond natural variations, potentially reducing calcification rates of corals and other aragonite shell-forming organisms. The study projects severe reductions in coral reef diversity, structural complexity, and resilience by the...
Research by Carnegie Institution scientists found that sea cucumbers dissolve half of the calcium carbonate on coral reefs at night, contributing to their destruction. The team's findings highlight the importance of understanding marine organisms' roles in maintaining the balance of these delicate ecosystems.
A comprehensive study of ocean acidification has made key findings, showing that some marine ecosystems are already experiencing acidity levels not predicted to occur until the end of the century. The study used sensors developed at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and found variability in seawater pH within and across ecosystems.
Submarine springs in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula reveal how ocean acidification may impact coral reef ecosystems. The study found that some coral species can calcify at low pH, but these are not the dominant framework builders of Caribbean reefs.
The new US Carbon Cycle Science Plan aims to expand research on the human impact of carbon cycling and climate change. It emphasizes communication and accessible research for policy makers and the public, with a focus on strengthening observation networks and developing numerical models.
Researchers investigate the cause of the Permian-Triassic extinction, finding that ocean acidification may have played a significant role. Additionally, studies suggest that reforestation on historically productive, snow-free land could contribute to climate change mitigation even in northern latitudes.
A recent study by Dr. Paul Jokiel suggests that ocean acidification interferes with the transfer of hydrogen ions between water and coral tissue, disrupting calcification rates and weakening coral skeletons. This 'proton flux hypothesis' provides new insights into the importance of ocean acidification and temperature on coral reefs.
Researchers found that coccolithophores form thinner calcite skeletons in acidic ocean water, with significant implications for marine ecosystems and the global carbon cycle. However, some coastal areas exhibit highly calcified species, suggesting potential adaptations to environmental changes.
The study assesses the impact of ocean acidification on mollusk harvests worldwide, particularly in poor and developing nations. Nations with high dependence on shellfish and lack of aquaculture are most vulnerable, with Senegal, Madagascar, Gambia, Mozambique, and Haiti expected to be heavily impacted.
The study found that ocean acidification has a strong impact on shell strength and size in mussel larvae, leading to reduced survival rates and ecosystem balance disruption. The findings suggest that increased CO2 levels could affect the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems.
Seven faculty teams will receive grants to tackle various environmental challenges, including coral reefs and groundwater supply. The projects aim to promote global sustainability through interdisciplinary research.
The UK Ocean Acidification research programme aims to study the impact of changing CO2 levels on marine organisms and ecosystems. The cruise will conduct experiments using tanks of natural seawater collected from the sea, subjecting them to various levels of carbon dioxide that may occur in the future.
A new study reveals ocean acidification compromises fish hearing, leaving clownfish deaf to predators. Researchers reared larvae in different CO2 environments, showing that increased acidity impacts sensory systems, including those inside the fish's body.
New research reveals ocean acidification will reduce coral reef ecosystem diversity, leading to severe impacts on coral reefs globally. The study shows reduced biodiversity, recruitment, and development of reef ecosystems under acidic conditions.
Coastal communities can address localized ocean acidification hotspots by applying federal and state laws and policies at a local level, reducing the impact on marine environments.
A recent study warns that human impacts on the Southern Ocean are degrading its unique ecology, threatening native fauna. The researchers highlight various human activities causing harm, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change, which are altering food webs and endangering species.
A new species of marine mollusc, Polyconites hadriani, has been discovered in the Iberian Peninsula, dating back to the Lower Aptian period. The species is believed to have adapted to ocean acidification, a process that could inform our understanding of modern marine ecosystems.
Researchers have developed a seawater/mineral carbonate gas scrubber that removes up to 97% of CO2, converting it to dissolved calcium bicarbonate. This can help mitigate ocean acidification and its effects on marine life, such as coral reefs.
Marine scientists found that ocean acidification decreases nitrification rates globally, which could lead to reduced nitrous oxide emissions. This decrease may also shift the available form of dissolved nitrogen in surface oceans, favoring certain plant species.
A new study led by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School suggests that ocean acidification could compromise coral recruitment, impacting recovery from disturbance. The research reveals a new threat to already struggling Caribbean and Florida reef Elkhorn corals.
Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution found that ocean acidification would only affect whale hearing by a negligible 2 decibels by 2100. The impact on marine animals relies heavily on natural noise levels, not human-made noise from ships.
Researchers used computer simulations to predict the impact of mitigation policies on ocean acidification. A peak year of emissions and post-peak reduction rates significantly influence ocean acidity increases by 2100. The study suggests that substantial emission reductions need to occur as soon as possible.
The Joint Institute for the Study of the Atmosphere and Ocean at the University of Washington will focus on 10 critical areas, including climate change, ocean acidification, and marine ecosystems. The institute aims to expand its research efforts with a potential $100 million award over five years.
Marine Roseobacter clade decline linked to ocean acidification may impact global climate system and socio-economic consequences. Ocean acidification could significantly affect fish stocks and coral reef erosion.
Scientists find that Arctic sea ice loss is driven by the formation of arches, which block flow and lead to increased ice loss. In Mars, solar wind pulses contribute to atmospheric escape, with bursts occurring in association with corotating interaction regions.
Increasing ocean acidity poses a significant threat to marine species, with potentially profound ramifications for food chains. A UAB expert warns that the effects of climate change on the world's oceans are undeniable and urgent.
Human carbon dioxide emissions impact ocean acoustics by increasing transparency to low-frequency sound, potentially affecting marine mammals' communication. The pH of surface seawater will drop by 0.6 units by 2100, leading to a 70% decrease in sound absorption.
Researchers at Stony Brook University found that high levels of carbon dioxide in seawater hinder the growth and survival of bivalve larvae, leading to a significant decline in shellfish populations. The study suggests ocean acidification poses an equally serious risk to ocean resources.
At Station ALOHA, ocean acidification rates have been documented over two decades, with surface acidity growing more acidic at the expected rate from chemical equilibration. However, year-to-year changes vary on seasonal and inter-annual timescales, driven by climate-induced changes in ocean mixing.
A new study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution researchers predicts a 10-25% decline in US mollusk sales, worth $75-$187 million annually, and $1.4 billion by 2060. This decline could lead to economic hardships for fishing communities.
A new study found that geoengineering solutions to counter global warming would have a minimal impact on ocean acidification, which threatens coral reefs and marine life. Reducing carbon dioxide emissions is considered a more effective safeguard against climate change.
The paper suggests measures to manage ocean acidification's impact on commercial fisheries, including flexible fishery management plans and support for fishing communities. Ocean acidification is expected to damage corals, mollusks, and shellfish, altering food webs and intensifying competition among predators.
A large study found that eating fatty fish once a week reduces the risk of heart failure in men by 12%, while moderate intake of marine omega-3 fatty acids also has a protective effect. However, no significant benefit was seen with higher intakes of either food group.
Researchers have determined that deep-sea corals from Hawaii are much older than previously thought, with some species estimated to be around 2,740 and 4,270 years old. The longest-lived coral is believed to be the deep-water black coral, which has been continuously growing its skeleton for millennia.
Researchers warn that ocean acidification could have far-reaching effects on marine ecosystems, impacting phytoplankton and the food chain. The increased acidity may also affect developmental processes and populations of various organisms.
A study by University of Rhode Island scientists finds that elevated CO2 levels will reduce jumbo squid's oxygen consumption rate and activity levels, affecting their feeding behavior. The researchers predict that the squids may migrate to northern climes to escape CO2 and oxygen stress.
Researchers have discovered that climate change affects the ocean's chemical makeup, altering calcium levels and potentially impacting marine life. The study found that the ocean's chemistry can change rapidly in response to climate changes, highlighting the need for further research on the impacts of ocean acidification.
A study by Swedish researchers found that acidification reduces sea urchin fertility by 25%, affecting larval development and population growth. The findings highlight the devastating impact of ocean acidification on marine animal life, with far-reaching consequences for commercially and ecologically important species.
A new study found that low-dose exposure to domoic acid during fetal brain development can lead to epileptic seizures and behavioral abnormalities in California sea lions. The toxin is produced by harmful algal blooms, which are increasingly common in the sea lions' habitat.
Researchers have discovered high levels of acidified ocean water off the West Coast of North America, with corrosive levels detected within 20 miles of the shoreline. The acidic water is likely 50 years old and may increase in future due to rising atmospheric CO2 levels.
Research on ocean acidification reveals that the oceans have become 30% more acidic since the industrial revolution, with predicted pH levels dropping by 0.4 units by the end of the century. This could lead to devastating effects on marine life and ecosystems, including coral reefs and fisheries.
Coral reefs are facing extinction due to rising ocean temperatures and acidification, threatening marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions. Scientists call for urgent action to reduce carbon emissions and local pressures such as overfishing and pollution to save these vital ecosystems.
The world's oceans are becoming more acidic, potentially devastating for corals and marine organisms. Corals with chalky skeletons face declining calcification, affecting the marine food web and global oxygen production.
Sulfur and nitrogen emissions from power plants and agricultural activities significantly impact coastal ocean chemistry, reducing its ability to store carbon and harming marine life. The study found that these emissions can alter water chemistry by 10-50% more than acidification caused by carbon dioxide.
A new report warns that carbon dioxide emissions are dramatically altering ocean chemistry, threatening marine organisms such as corals and pteropods. The report highlights the potential impacts on marine food webs, biodiversity, and ecosystems, emphasizing the need for further research to understand these changes.
Ocean acidification could lead to extinction of many marine species due to increased acidity and dissolution of calcium carbonate shells. The last time oceans endured such a drastic change in chemistry was 65 million years ago, at the same time dinosaurs went extinct.
Toxic algal blooms in Monterey Bay have been linked to domoic acid accumulation in anchovies, sardines, and krill, posing a threat to endangered whale species. Monitoring programs are in place to ensure seafood safety, but more research is needed to understand the toxin's effects on wildlife.
The University of Hawaii has launched the Marine Bioproducts Engineering Center (MarBEC) with a $12.4 million NSF grant, aiming to develop 21st-century marine biotechnology businesses. MarBEC will draw on Hawaii's expertise and natural advantages in collecting and analyzing marine products and organisms to lay the groundwork for future...
The study found that dietary DHA and EPA supplementation significantly influenced heart rate, with improved left ventricular diastolic filling observed in the marine oil groups. The fatty acid composition of plasma phospholipids may affect cardiac mechanics in humans.
A diet rich in seafood, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid, has been shown to reduce the production of leukotriene B4, a molecule that promotes inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This reduction leads to less inflammatory effects and a decrease in neutrophil migration and release of damaging molecules.
Researchers have identified the precise mechanism by which marine algae produce DMSP, a compound that helps clouds form in the atmosphere. This discovery could lead to genetically engineered crops with improved drought, freeze, and salt tolerance, potentially regulating global climate.