The semi-enclosed Mediterranean and Black Seas have many unique oceanographic and biogeographical features which could either serve to exacerbate or reduce future effects of increased pCO2 and ocean acidification (OA). Despite the fact that these seas have been the intense focus of marine research activities for decades, few studies on the effects of OA have been carried out in the region and specific OA studies with Mediterranean species and communities are only in their infancy. The existing literature relevant to this region is reviewed, specific gaps in knowledge are identified and types of OA studies needed in the future are emphasized. Owing to the overall lack of specific OA research in the Black Sea, a marine area under severe anthropogenic and environmental stress, targeted studies on future impacts of OA on its fragile marine ecosystem are urgently needed.
Fowler S. W., 2008. Ocean acidification issues in the Mediterranean and Black Seas: present status and future perspectives. In: Briand F. (Ed.), Impacts of acidification on biological, chemical and physical systems in the Mediterranean and Black Seas, pp. 23-30. Monaco: CIESM. Article.
