How do ocean acidification processes impact marine ecosystems and organisms by decreasing seawater pH, reducing carbonate ion concentrations, and affecting the calcification rates of marine organisms such as corals, shellfish, and planktonic species, leading to changes in ocean chemistry, biodiversity, and ecosystem functioning?

Ocean acidification refers to the ongoing decrease in seawater pH due to the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, which reacts with water to form carbonic acid. This process reduces carbonate ion concentrations in seawater, making it more difficult for marine organisms to form calcium carbonate shells and skeletons. Corals, shellfish, and planktonic species that rely on carbonate minerals for calcification are particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification. Reduced calcification rates can impact the growth, reproduction, and survival of these organisms, leading to changes in ocean chemistry, biodiversity, and ecosystem functioning. Ocean acidification also has broader implications for marine food webs, fisheries, and coastal communities that depend on healthy marine ecosystems for food security and economic livelihoods.