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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Discuss the impact of ocean acidification on marine life.

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Task 2 Topic: Discuss the impact of ocean acidification on marine life.

Model Answer:

In recent years, ocean acidification has emerged as a significant environmental concern that poses a serious threat to marine ecosystems worldwide. This phenomenon occurs due to the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere by seawater, which subsequently leads to a decrease in pH levels and an increase in hydrogen ions. The following essay will explore the adverse effects of ocean acidification on marine life, with a particular focus on its impact on calcifying organisms, such as coral reefs and shellfish, and the potential consequences for the broader ecosystem.

Firstly, ocean acidification has a profound effect on calcifying organisms that rely on carbonate ions to build their shells or skeletons. As the concentration of hydrogen ions in seawater increases, so too does the competition between these organisms and dissolved CO2 for available carbonate ions. This results in a reduction of carbonate ions available for calcification, which in turn impairs the growth and survival of these species. For instance, coral reefs, which are composed primarily of calcium carbonate, experience significant stress due to this process. As the coral's ability to grow and repair itself is impeded, the overall health of the reef system declines, leading to a loss of biodiversity and potential collapse of these vital marine ecosystems.

Moreover, ocean acidification has far-reaching consequences for marine food webs. Many species that rely on calcifying organisms as a source of food, such as mollusks and crustaceans, may experience reduced populations due to the decline in these primary producers. Consequently, this can lead to a ripple effect throughout the food chain, as predators face a shortage of prey and are forced to seek alternative sources of sustenance. Additionally, acidification can also directly impact fish species by altering their sensory abilities, such as taste and smell, which play a crucial role in finding food and avoiding predation. This could lead to changes in species distribution and behavior, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

In conclusion, ocean acidification is an urgent environmental issue that poses significant risks to marine life and the broader ecosystem. The decline in calcifying organisms due to competition for carbonate ions and the subsequent impacts on marine food webs are just a few examples of the far-reaching consequences of this phenomenon. As such, it is essential that we take immediate action to mitigate the effects of ocean acidification through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the implementation of sustainable fishing practices, and the conservation of critical marine habitats.

Score: Band 9

Reasoning: The model answer effectively addresses the main topic, providing a comprehensive overview of the impact of ocean acidification on marine life. It presents a logical structure, with an introduction that outlines the causes and effects of ocean acidification, followed by detailed explanations of the consequences for calcifying organisms and marine food webs. Lastly, it concludes by emphasizing the need for urgent action to combat this environmental challenge. The language used is precise, coherent, and appropriately complex, which aligns with IELTS Band 9 scoring standards.

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