Abstract

Ocean acidification, primarily driven by increased atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and biodiversity. As CO2 is absorbed by seawater, it undergoes a series of chemical reactions, leading to a decrease in pH and altering the carbonate chemistry of the oceans. This phenomenon is exacerbated by climate change, which intensifies the stress on marine organisms, particularly those with calcium carbonate structures, such as corals, mollusks, and certain plankton species. The effects of ocean acidification include reduced calcification rates, altered predator-prey dynamics, and disrupted food webs, leading to cascading impacts on fisheries and marine biodiversity. Moreover, the interaction between ocean acidification and other climate-related stressors, such as temperature increases and deoxygenation, further complicates the resilience of marine organisms. Understanding the intricate relationship between climate change and ocean acidification is crucial for developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies to protect marine ecosystems and the services they provide. This review examines the mechanisms underlying ocean acidification, its ecological consequences, and the implications for marine resource management in the face of ongoing climate change.