“Diving into the Triple Threat Facing Our Oceans: Oxygen Loss, Extreme Heat, and Acidification”

A school of yellowmouth barracudas was recently spotted in the Scandola Marine Reserve in Corsica, France on June 17, 2017. This sighting highlights the rich biodiversity of the Mediterranean, which is home to nearly 10% of the world’s marine species.

According to a new study published in the journal AGU Advances, the world’s oceans are facing a “triple threat” of oxygen loss, extreme heat, and acidification. The researchers found that as global heating worsens, marine species are experiencing increased stress, with up to 20% of the world’s oceans affected by these threats.

The study revealed that vertical water column-compound extreme events are occurring in high latitudes and the tropics, lasting 10 to 30 days and reducing habitable space by as much as 75%. These events are exacerbated by human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels for energy, which has led to intense compound events in the top 984 feet of the ocean being six times more intense and lasting three times longer than in the early 1960s.

Lead author of the study, Joel Wong, warned that these extreme events are likely to disrupt marine ecosystems and fisheries around the world. As ocean temperatures rise, the intensity of tropical storms is also affected, posing a significant concern for hurricane season.

The absorption of excess carbon dioxide and heat by the oceans is leading to increased acidity and depleted oxygen levels, forcing marine life out of their habitats and dissolving the shells of marine organisms. This has significant implications for the survival of marine species and the overall health of ocean ecosystems.

Climate scientist Andrea Dutton emphasized the urgent need for action to address these threats, as the consequences of ocean warming and acidification are already being felt. She highlighted the importance of recognizing the role of oceans in buffering the impacts of climate change on land, while also acknowledging the consequences of these processes on marine life.

As we continue to witness the effects of climate change on our oceans, it is crucial to prioritize conservation efforts and sustainable practices to protect marine ecosystems and ensure the health and well-being of marine species.