Question

In 2-3 sentences, how does ocean acidification affect coral reefs

Answer 1

Ocean acidification, caused by increased carbon dioxide absorption by seawater, reduces the availability of carbonate ions, which are essential for coral calcification. This hampers the ability of corals to build their calcium carbonate structures, leading to weakened reefs that are more vulnerable to bleaching, disease, and environmental stressors. As a result, coral reefs may decline in biodiversity and resilience, impacting the entire marine ecosystem that depends on them.