雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Good morning, everyone. Today, in our marine biology lecture, we will discuss the impact of ocean acidification on coral reefs. As you know, increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is absorbed by the ocean, leading to a decrease in pH levels. This process, called ocean acidification, reduces the availability of carbonate ions, which are essential for corals to build their calcium carbonate skeletons. A recent study conducted by the University of Queensland monitored two reefs in the Great Barrier Reef over five years. The results showed that the reef with higher water circulation had a 30% slower rate of calcification compared to the more sheltered reef. However, the sheltered reef experienced a greater loss of biodiversity due to lower pH levels. So, while circulation can slow down structural damage, it does not prevent the overall ecological decline.