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

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IELTS Writing 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 due to its detrimental effects on marine life. This phenomenon occurs when the ocean absorbs excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, leading to a decrease in pH levels and an increase in hydrogen ion concentration. In this essay, we will examine the consequences of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems, focusing on the impact on calcifying organisms, food chain disruptions, and potential extinction threats.

Firstly, one of the most affected groups of marine creatures are calcifying organisms, such as corals, shellfish, and some types of plankton. These species rely on calcium carbonate to form their exoskeletons or shells. Ocean acidification interferes with this process by reducing the availability of calcium ions and increasing the solubility of calcium carbonate. As a result, these organisms experience difficulty in building and maintaining their protective structures, which can lead to weaker and more vulnerable populations. This can ultimately disrupt the delicate balance of marine ecosystems, as calcifying organisms play a critical role in maintaining habitat diversity and providing food and shelter for other marine species.

Secondly, ocean acidification has the potential to cause significant disruptions in marine food chains. Many marine animals rely on specific cues or chemical signals in their environment to find mates, establish territories, and locate prey. Changes in pH levels can alter these chemical signals, making it difficult for species to communicate and survive effectively within their respective ecosystems. Consequently, this can lead to a decline in the population numbers of affected species, which may have knock-on effects on higher trophic levels. For example, if predatory fish populations decrease due to reduced access to prey, this could disrupt the balance between predator and prey species within the marine ecosystem.

Lastly, ocean acidification poses a threat to the extinction of certain marine species. As mentioned earlier, weaker calcifying organisms may not be able to withstand the adverse effects of changing pH levels, resulting in localized extinctions or significant reductions in population size. Moreover, disrupted food chains can lead to a cascade effect, wherein entire ecosystems become destabilized and species that are unable to adapt quickly enough may face potential extinction.

In conclusion, ocean acidification is a pressing environmental issue with far-reaching consequences for marine life. The effects on calcifying organisms, food chain disruptions, and potential extinction threats demonstrate the urgency of addressing this problem. As stewards of our planet, it is essential that we take immediate action to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, restore ocean health, and safeguard the delicate balance of marine ecosystems for future generations.

Overall score: Band 9
The essay demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the topic and provides well-structured and coherent arguments supported by relevant examples. The language used is mostly complex and accurate, with only a few minor grammatical errors.

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