Good morning, everyone. Today we're going to discuss the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. One key point is ocean acidification, which occurs when the ocean absorbs excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This process lowers the pH of seawater, making it more acidic. As a result, shellfish and corals struggle to build their calcium carbonate shells and skeletons. Additionally, warmer water temperatures cause coral bleaching, where corals expel the algae living in their tissues, turning white and becoming vulnerable to disease. Scientists have observed that even a one-degree Celsius rise can trigger widespread bleaching events. So, it's crucial to reduce carbon emissions to protect these vital habitats.
❓ According to the lecture, what is a direct consequence of ocean acidification?