Chapter 16, Problem 1RQ

Explain how ocean acidification is likely to affect molluscs. Describe the long-term effects of this process on human economies.

Summary Introduction

To explain: The effect of ocean acidification on molluscs.

Introduction: The increase in the atmospheric CO₂ due to various factors, initiates the chemical reactions in the environment. These reactions decrease the pH of the ocean, rendering it to be more acidic.

Explanation of Solution

The acidic ocean causes the reduction of biological availability of the calcium, making its uptake difficult by the organisms. Calcium is a critical element for the development of molluscs shells. The shells become softer, thinner and weaker in organisms such as clams, oysters, mussels and scallops, when present in an acidified ocean. The decrease amount of available calcium also causes the failure of larval abalone to develop normally and creating normal shells. The non-shelled molluscs like squid and octopi may also be affected by the acidification, as it increases the algal turf and seagrass bed. This changes the community, which may act on these molluscs.

Summary Introduction

To determine: The long-term effect of ocean acidification on human economies.

Introduction: Molluscs have significant importance as a source of food for many people all around the world. Tonnes of molluscs are harvested for food every year.

Explanation of Solution

The acidification of the ocean declines the population of healthy molluscs. A healthy mollusc fishery depends on healthy oceans. The deterioration of the ocean’s environment hampers the fishery. This causes economic loss to the fishery industries.