5 Two factors that are negatively affecting coral reefs due to climate
change are higher ocean
Choose
and more acidic water
1. Higher ocean temperatures: Rising global temperatures are causing waters to warm, which can lead to coral bleaching events. Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the algae living in their tissues, leaving them vulnerable to disease and death. This can have devastating effects on coral reef ecosystems.
2. More acidic water: As the oceans absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the water becomes more acidic. This can hinder the ability of corals to build their calcium carbonate skeletons, leading to slower growth rates and weaker structures. Additionally, increased acidity can impact other marine organisms that rely on calcium carbonate for shell formation, further destabilizing coral reef ecosystems.