Increasing acidification of the oceans may be altering the essential biochemical and physiological processes of marine organisms through a process known as acidosis. Acidosis is a buildup of carbonic acid in body fluids that can lead to lowered immune response, metabolic decline, reproductive difficulties, respiratory problems and even death. Because the oceans have never faced such rapid acidification, it is unknown whether marine ecosystems will be able to adapt. Scientists are just beginning to fill the research gap and are conducting studies on how climate change drives acidosis.
Egg and larval stages are most susceptible to acidosis. Thus, a reduced reproductive rate could be the first symptom to appear. Initial studies have discovered that elevated levels of CO2 may result in mortality for Japanese amberjack (Seriola quinqueradiata) and bastard halibut (Paralichthys olivaceus).1
