Sambhav-2024

• Write a brief introduction about ocean acidification.
• Mention impact of ocean acidification on the marine ecosystem.
• Write a conclusion.

Introduction

Ocean acidification refers to the ongoing decrease in the pH of the Earth's oceans, primarily caused by the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. When CO2 dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, leading to a decrease in pH and changes in the chemical composition of the water. This phenomenon has serious implications for marine ecosystems worldwide, including those in India.

Body

In recent years, India has experienced increasing concerns regarding ocean acidification, particularly in coastal regions where marine life is abundant.

• Impact on Coral Reefs: Coral reefs are particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification. In India, the coral reefs along the coasts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and parts of the Gulf of Mannar are threatened. The decrease in pH weakens coral skeletons, making it harder for corals to build and maintain their calcium carbonate structures. This weakens the reefs' ability to withstand natural disturbances like storms and leads to coral bleaching events.
  • For example, in recent years, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have witnessed several coral bleaching events due to rising ocean temperatures exacerbated by ocean acidification.
• Impact on Marine Food Chains: Ocean acidification can disrupt marine food chains by affecting the calcification processes of various organisms. For instance, shell-forming organisms such as mollusks and some types of plankton may find it harder to build and maintain their calcium carbonate shells, impacting their survival and the species that depend on them for food.
  • In Indian waters, this could have repercussions for commercially important species like shrimp and shellfish, affecting local fisheries and livelihoods.
• Impact on Marine Biodiversity: Ocean acidification can also affect the behavior, growth, and reproduction of marine organisms, potentially leading to shifts in species distributions and alterations in marine ecosystems. In India, this could mean changes in the distribution and abundance of various fish species, affecting the livelihoods of coastal communities dependent on fishing.
• Economic Implications: The impacts of ocean acidification extend beyond ecological concerns to economic ones. Coastal communities in India rely on marine resources for livelihoods, including fishing and tourism. The degradation of marine ecosystems due to ocean acidification can have far-reaching economic consequences, affecting industries and communities dependent on these resources.

Conclusion

Addressing ocean acidification requires global efforts to mitigate CO2 emissions and reduce other stressors on marine ecosystems. In India, initiatives to monitor ocean acidification and its impacts are essential, along with policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and protecting marine habitats. Collaborative research efforts involving government agencies, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations can help improve understanding of ocean acidification and develop strategies to mitigate its effects on marine ecosystems in India and beyond.