Fun facts
What is one of the smallest marine organisms heavily affected by ocean acidification that also forms the base of the marine food chain?
Plankton! Many types of plankton, like coccolithophores, have calcium carbonate shells that weaken in acidic waters.
What does SDG stand for?
Sustainable Development Goals!
How does ocean acidification affect the shells of sea animals like oysters and clams?
Acidic water makes it harder for these animals to build and maintain their shells, causing them to weaken or dissolve.
True or False: Coral reefs provide habitats for about 25% of all marine species.
True! Coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots, and they are at high risk due to acidification.
How many SDGs are there?
17 SDGs!
Why are coral reefs threatened by ocean acidification?
Coral reefs need calcium carbonate to grow, but acidification reduces its availability, making it harder for corals to form their skeletons.
How does ocean acidification make it harder for shellfish like oysters to survive?
Acidic waters reduce the availability of calcium carbonate, which is essential for shell-building. This makes their shells weaker and harder to grow.
True or False: One of the SDGs is to end poverty everywhere.
True! SDG 1 is "No Poverty."
What happens to fish when ocean acidification disrupts their sense of smell?
Fish, like clownfish, may struggle to detect predators or find their homes, making them more vulnerable in the wild.
What happens to the shells of some sea animals, like clams and oysters, when the ocean becomes too acidic?
Their shells get weaker and can even start to dissolve!
What does SDG 13 focus on?
Climate Action! It’s about taking urgent action to combat climate change.
How does ocean acidification affect plankton, the tiny organisms at the base of the food chain?
Some plankton species have shells that dissolve in acidic waters, which can disrupt the entire marine food chain that depends on them.
True or False: Coral reefs are affected by ocean acidification.
True! Acidic water makes it harder for corals to grow their skeletons.
What is the main focus of SDG 2?
Zero Hunger! It aims to end hunger and ensure food security.
True or False: Ocean acidification only impacts animals with shells or skeletons.
False! Acidification affects a wide range of marine life, including fish and coral reef ecosystems.