Ocean
acidification a greater threat to marine plankton than previously
thought: study
7
May, 2012
4
May 2012 (Monash) – Changes in the ocean’s chemistry, as a result
of increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, threaten
marine plankton to a greater extent than previously thought,
according to new research.
The
research, published in Nature Climate Change, revealed around half
the CO2 released through human activity dissolves in the ocean, where
it forms carbonic acid leading to a decrease in seawater pH.
Scientists
found the changes in the pH levels, along with global warming, could
lead to poor growth, if not death, of marine plankton.
Professor
John Beardall from the School of Biological Sciences at Monash
University collaborated with international researchers from Swansea
University’s Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Research, who led the
study, the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth, the University of
Dundee and the University of Technology in Sydney.
Professor
Beardall said the impact that ocean acidification-induced changes
have on plankton was a major concern.
“This
research suggests the impact of oceanic acidification upon marine
plankton could be more serious than previously thought,” Professor
Beardall said.
“Acidity
levels will more than double by the end of the century as a result of
the increase in CO2 levels in the ocean, but it is unclear how the
growth of plankton will respond to this increase.”
Using
mathematical modelling and their understanding of cellular
physiology, the team has found that many marine plankton will
experience a substantially more acidic environment than currently
suggested.
Professor
Beardall plans to develop the research further to understand the
effects of ocean acidification and other aspects of climate change on
key Australian phytoplankton species.
The
research was funded by the Natural Environment Research Council
(NERC).
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