IELTS.WORK

IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The Impact of Ocean Acidification on Marine Life

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1710610507

Topic: The Impact of Ocean Acidification on Marine Life

Model Answer:

Title: The Devastating Effects of Ocean Acidification on Marine Ecosystems

Introduction (4): In recent years, the Earth's oceans have been experiencing a phenomenon known as ocean acidification. This process occurs when carbon dioxide from human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation is absorbed by the world's oceans. As a result, the pH levels of seawater are becoming more acidic, posing significant threats to marine life. In this essay, I will discuss the various ways in which ocean acidification negatively impacts marine ecosystems, including effects on species such as coral reefs, shell-forming organisms, and fish populations.

Body (12): Firstly, one of the most vulnerable groups affected by ocean acidification are shell-forming organisms like mollusks, crustaceans, and echinoderms. These creatures rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells and exoskeletons; however, the increased acidity in seawater makes it difficult for them to produce and maintain these structures. Consequently, these species face a higher risk of predation and are less able to adapt to changes in their environment, which can ultimately lead to population decline or extinction.

Secondly, coral reefs, which provide essential habitats for numerous marine species, are also severely impacted by ocean acidification. Acidic conditions hinder the ability of corals to form and maintain their calcium carbonate skeletons, resulting in reduced growth rates and susceptibility to erosion. This weakened state makes coral reefs more vulnerable to physical damage from storms and other environmental stressors, leading to a decline in overall reef health and resilience.

Lastly, ocean acidification has far-reaching consequences for fish populations. Many species of fish are sensitive to changes in water chemistry, and acidic conditions can disrupt the delicate balance of their physiological processes. For example, some fish rely on specialized sensory organs called lateral lines to detect vibrations in the water, which helps them locate prey and avoid predators. However, ocean acidification has been shown to impair the functionality of these organs, reducing the fish's ability to survive and reproduce in a changing environment.

Conclusion (3): In conclusion, ocean acidification poses significant threats to marine life, affecting not only individual species but also the delicate balance of entire ecosystems. The devastating effects on shell-forming organisms, coral reefs, and fish populations demonstrate the urgent need for global action to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. By working together, we can protect our oceans and preserve the diverse and vital marine life they support.

Overall Score (6): The overall quality of this answer is excellent. The writer provides a comprehensive overview of the topic, with well-structured paragraphs and a clear progression of ideas. The language used is accurate and varied, with appropriate vocabulary and grammar. The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and emphasizes the need for global action to address ocean acidification. This answer would likely receive a Band Score of 9 in an IELTS Writing Test.

Source: https://www.ielts.work/?id=1710610507&page=ielts-writing-practice

For more: https://www.ielts.work/?page=ielts-writing-practice