-by Emily Skibenes
Global warming poses an extreme threat to our world’s oceans. This tremendous ecosystem is a major component in the carbon cycle. Our vast ocean waters already absorb one-third of carbon emissions resulting from human activity. Although we know how the oceans cycle carbon, there is little known about the ecological effects due to rising temperatures and ocean acidification. As atmospheric carbon dioxide increases, the ocean’s chemistry will be altered as a result. Studying the primary producers of our oceans may give an indication of the changes to come and their implications.
A study conducted at the Leibniz Institute of Marine Sciences at Kiel University found that a temperature increase of 2-6 degrees Celsius decreased the solubility of atmospheric carbon into the water surface by up to 31% and produced more dissolved organic carbon than particulate organic carbon. This impacted the sequestration of carbon therefore weakening the biological carbon pump. These observations could affect the transfer of primary produced organic matter to higher trophic levels in the marine food chain.
Dissolved organic carbon is an important component within the aquatic food web but it is also a contributor to acidity and the ability for light penetration. The results of the experiment suggest that rising temperatures will produce more dissolved organic carbon and therefore can alter the pH and decreasing light availability for photosynthetic organisms.
Although the oceans ecosystems are tremendously complex, experiments like these are important reminders of how delicate certain biological systems can be. If we draw conclusions based upon the vulnerability our primary producers it draws attention to the fact that we are dependent upon their survival and efficiency. Understanding how human activity impacts the global ecosystem is more important than ever and is a reminder that we must move forward to a more sustainable future.
Kalaugher, Liz. “Hotter Plankton Breathe Faster.” Environmental Research Web. Environmental Research Web, 20 Apr. 2009. Web.
Discovery of a Sustainable Baltic Sea 