Lecture Notes: Ocean Acidification and Its Impact

Introduction

• Over the past 200 years, oceans have absorbed over a quarter of human-generated CO2.
• This absorption leads to a process called ocean acidification.

Effects of Ocean Acidification

• Ocean acidification alters the chemistry of seawater.
• It has the potential to fundamentally change:
  • Ocean ecosystems
  • Marine life
  • Food webs

Importance of Understanding Ocean Acidification

• Developing tools to slow down the rate of ocean acidification is crucial.

U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS)

• IOOS provides real-time data to predict acidified seawater arrival 1-2 days in advance.
• This data is essential for shellfish farmers to save their crops.

Case Study: Shellfish Hatchery in Neatarts Bay, Oregon

• The hatchery relies on IOOS data for managing operations.
• Pumps 75,000 to 100,000 gallons of seawater daily.
• Produces 100 million shellfish larvae, crucial for business and dependent families.
• Faced challenges in 2008 with high larvae mortality due to acidification.
  • High CO2 levels lowered pH, affecting larvae growth.

Adaptations and Solutions

• IOOS data allows for monitoring and adapting to changing ocean chemistry.
• Current practices include:
  • Filtering and skimming seawater
  • Treating water with carbonate
  • Adding air and oxygen

Broader Implications

• Ocean acidification is a global issue, not limited to localized areas.
• Emphasized that it should not be a partisan issue, as it affects the entire planet.

Conclusion

• The importance of monitoring and adapting to ocean changes is critical for business survival and environmental conservation.