Aquatic acidification is a proven phenomenon principally caused by human carbon dioxide emissions. Important changes in pH and on carbonate chemistry in conjunction with other anthropogenic impacts are seriously affecting aquatic communities. Nowadays, there is substantial evidence that acidification has an important impact on marine, coastal, and freshwater habitats. Calcifying organisms, juvenile stages, and coral reefs ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to this process. Species diversity and ecosystem resilience are expected to decrease in the near future. The amplitude of future acidification levels will depend on actual and future carbon dioxide emissions. Immediate actions are needed to limit the negative ecological and socioeconomic effects.
Tagliarolo M., in press. Acidification in aquatic systems. Reference Module in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences. Article (subscription required).
