Ocean acidification is a process that occurs when the ocean absorbs excess carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This CO2 comes from various sources, including the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. When the ocean takes in this gas, it reacts with seawater to form carbonic acid, which lowers the pH of the water, making it more acidic. This change can harm marine life, especially organisms like coral reefs and shellfish that rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells and skeletons.
As the ocean becomes more acidic, it can disrupt the entire marine ecosystem. For example, coral reefs are vital habitats for many fish species, and their decline can lead to reduced biodiversity. Additionally, shellfish like clams and