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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Discuss the impact of ocean acidification on marine life.

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Task: Discuss the impact of ocean acidification on marine life.

Model Answer:

Ocean acidification, a significant consequence of human-induced climate change, has far-reaching implications for marine ecosystems worldwide. In this essay, I will examine the multifaceted effects of increased acidity on marine life, with a focus on its impact on key species and habitats.

Firstly, ocean acidification has been shown to have profound consequences for calcifying organisms, such as shellfish and coral reefs. As the acidity of seawater increases, the availability of carbonate ions, essential for building shells and skeletons, decreases. Consequently, the growth and survival rates of these species are diminished, leading to a decline in their populations. For example, research has shown that higher levels of acidity can lead to weaker and more fragile shells in species like oysters and mussels, making them more susceptible to predation and environmental stressors.

Additionally, ocean acidification also impacts the food chain within marine ecosystems. As key calcifying species experience declines in population due to increased acidity, the organisms that rely on them for sustenance are similarly affected. For instance, many species of fish feed on plankton, which can become less abundant as shell-building organisms suffer. This ripple effect can lead to imbalances within marine food webs and disrupt the delicate equilibrium of these ecosystems.

Moreover, ocean acidification has been found to alter the behavior and physiology of various marine species. Research has demonstrated that some fish exhibit changes in their swimming patterns, mating behaviors, and immune responses due to increased acidity. Such shifts can have significant consequences for the long-term survival and adaptability of these species in an increasingly acidic environment.

Lastly, it is important to note the potential implications of ocean acidification on human societies. As marine ecosystems are affected by increasing acidity, the availability and sustainability of key resources such as fish stocks may be compromised. Consequently, this can have profound impacts on economies and communities reliant on these natural resources for their livelihoods.

In conclusion, ocean acidification poses a significant threat to marine life worldwide. Its effects on calcifying organisms, the food chain, and the behavior of marine species underscore the urgent need for global action against climate change and the subsequent impacts it has on our oceans. As such, international cooperation and the implementation of effective environmental policies are essential to mitigate these challenges and preserve the delicate balance of marine ecosystems for future generations.

Overall band score: 9.0

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