Ocean acidification and its impacts.pptx

Ocean acidification refers to the ongoing decrease in the pH of the Earth's oceans, caused by the absorption of excess atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) from human activities like burning fossil fuels. As CO2 dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, which lowers the water's pH and reduces the availability of carbonate ions. These ions are essential for the formation of calcium carbonate structures, such as coral skeletons and shellfish shells. Ocean acidification poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and biodiversity, impacting species from plankton to top predators.

1. FS 215 Fishery Oceanography Ocean Acidification &its Impacts J. Bovas Joel Dr. M. G. R Fisheries College and Research Institute Thalanaiyeru , Tamilnadu

2. Introduction The process in which seawater becomes more acidic because of the excess carbon dioxide (CO2) it is absorbing from the atmosphere. Direct consequence of the burning of fossil fuels and the resulting carbon pollution.

3. CO2 Absorption by ocean

4. Causes The burning of fossil fuels The industrial revolution led to an increase in pollution Increase in the concentration of hydrogen ions due to the chemical reaction. Lack of eco-friendly law s and regulations A decrease in carbonate ions

5. Process CO2 absorption by seawater triggers chemical reactions. CO2 dissolves and forms carbonic acid (H2CO3). Carbonic acid dissociates into hydrogen ions (H+) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3-). Increased H+ concentration leads to more acidic seawater. Carbonate ions become less abundant due to increased acidity.

6. Ocean Carbon Uptake

7. Impacts Decreased carbonate ions hinder calcifying organisms from building and maintaining shells and skeletons. Acidic waters impair predator detection and habitat location for some fish, while algae and seagrasses may benefit from higher CO2 levels. Reduced photosynthesis in phytoplankton, the foundation of marine ecosystems, disrupts the entire marine food chain. Increased ocean acidity can lead to the disappearance or death of various aquatic organisms.

8. Impacts in Fish life

9. Contributors to Ocean Acidification

10. Severely Affected Organisms

11. Effects Decreases the amount of carbonate, directly impacting the lives of various organisms in the ocean. Coral reefs are degrading. Shell fishes cannot easily build their shells. Impacts the ocean deposits Loss of marine plants. Loss of marine biodiversity Disturbance in the food chain The local economy is decreased due to the lack of fish and other marine products. A decline in tourism.

12. Disrupts Marine life

13. Solutions Reducing the use of fossil fuels Increasing the use of eco-friendly fuels Use of technology for reducing pollution Making strict regulations Spreading awareness in Promotion of environmentally friendly initiatives Using Geo-engineering to control the pH value

14. Sustainable Development Goals (Goal 14.3)

15. Thank You