Acidification in our Ocean

This infographic describes both ocean and coastal acidification and how they can impact marine life such as corals and fish, along with what we can do to help.

For more information and to download the infographic, visit the NOAA Ocean Acidification Program.

Infographic Transcript: Acidification in our Ocean

We, as humans, are deeply connected to our ocean whether we realize it or not. Our ocean regulates climate like the heart regulates blood flow in our bodies. Humidity, rain, and temperature are all controlled by our ocean. Burning fossil fuels adds excess heat and carbon dioxide that disrupt this system and make it harder to maintain a stable climate.

Ocean Acidification: Our ocean absorbs excess carbon dioxide (CO²) when we burn fossil fuels to power cars and create electricity. This excess CO² increases acidity in our ocean on a global scale.

CO² is produced when using electricity, driving cars, and other industrial activities.

CO² (carbon dioxide) + H²O (water) = increased acidity

The ocean absorbs CO², which mixes with water and increases the acidity of the water. Carbonate, used by coral and shellfish to build their hard exteriors, becomes scarce when ocean acidity increases. Because many reef animals rely on coral for food and shelter, changing ocean chemistry can affect the entire coral reef ecosystem.

Increased ocean acidity reduces fish size and populations. Some fish grow slower and cannot reproduce as well. Others have more difficulty avoiding predators.

Coastal Acidification: Nutrients entering the water from land exacerbates acidification in near shore waters.

Concentrated nutrients from septic systems and fertilizer runoff into our ocean, carrying nitrogen and organic carbon that harm the marine ecosystem.

Plankton populations thrive in high nutrient environments and can become so dense that they block light from sun-dependent organisms like coral. When this algal bloom dies, the plankton sink and are broken down. The decay process depletes oxygen and adds nutrients, exacerbating changes in ocean chemistry and creating a challenging environment for marine life.

What can we do to help?

• Cut back on watering your lawn or choose drought-tolerant landscaping to reduce runoff into the ocean.
• Reduce the use of fertilizers with high nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations.
• Eat a plant-rich diet and buy local produce to reduce transportation and production emissions.
• Reduce energy use by choosing energy efficient appliances and learn about solar initiatives in your community.