Archive for October, 2012

Endangered: Ocean reefs.

According to ecoworld.com: “One of the most compelling reasons to report on the oceans is because it is here that sweeping changes are happening now, not in 50-100 years. The final destruction of the major ocean reef habitats as well as the collapse of major fish populations is well underway. As of 2007, both may be destroyed beyond repair within a few years.” That’s the bad news. The good news, the site states, is that this doesn’t have to happen. “Where coral reefs have been protected from destructive fishing practices, they have often begun to show signs of revitalization within a few years. Read more [...]

Oceans Becoming Acidic Ten Times Faster than Thought Before.

The world's oceans are turning acidic due to the buildup of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, and scientists say the effects on marine life will be catastrophic.

“Increasing levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere may make Earth's oceans more acidic faster than previously thought—unbalancing ecosystems in the process. New study says: Helen Scales for National Geographic News” For tens of millions of years, Earth's oceans have maintained a relatively stable acidity level. It's within this steady environment that the rich and varied web of life in today's seas has arisen and flourished. But research shows that this ancient balance is being undone by a recent and rapid drop in surface pH that could have devastating global consequences. Read more [...]