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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Discuss the impact of ocean acidification on marine life, considering both shortterm and longterm effects.

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Task 2: Discuss the impact of ocean acidification on marine life, considering both short-term and long-term effects.

Model Answer:

Ocean acidification, a consequence of increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, has emerged as a significant threat to marine ecosystems. The process alters the chemical balance of seawater, resulting in reduced pH levels and causing a range of negative impacts on marine life, both short-term and long-term.

In the short term, ocean acidification hampers the ability of organisms to build and maintain shells or exoskeletons. For example, many species of mollusks, such as oysters and clams, rely on calcium carbonate to construct their shells. As ocean acidity increases, the availability of this compound decreases, making it more difficult for these creatures to survive and reproduce. Consequently, populations of these species may decline rapidly, disrupting food chains and ecosystems.

Additionally, the increased acidity affects the sensory abilities of marine organisms, particularly their ability to detect predators and prey. Acid-sensitive cells in the eyes and gills of fish, for instance, can be damaged by higher levels of hydrogen ions, reducing their sensitivity to environmental changes. This may result in a decline in the ability of species to avoid predation or locate food sources, leading to shifts in population dynamics and potential extinctions.

Over the long term, ocean acidification has the potential to alter the fundamental structure of marine ecosystems. As more sensitive species decline or disappear, new organisms may take their place, potentially leading to a restructuring of food webs and changes in biodiversity. Moreover, if coral reef systems, which are highly sensitive to pH levels, experience significant damage due to acidification, the resulting loss of habitat could have cascading effects on associated species, disrupting entire marine ecosystems.

In conclusion, ocean acidification presents a grave threat to marine life and ecosystems. Both short-term consequences, such as impacts on shell formation and sensory abilities, and long-term shifts in population dynamics and biodiversity are expected to result from this phenomenon. To mitigate these effects, it is crucial that global efforts be made to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, which drive ocean acidification, and to monitor and adapt marine ecosystems as needed.

Overall Score: 9.0
For Task Response: 9.0 (The answer provides comprehensive information about the short-term and long-term impacts of ocean acidification on marine life, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the topic.)
For Coherence and Cohesion: 9.0 (The response is well-structured and logically organized, with smooth transitions between ideas.)
For Lexical Resource: 8.5 (The language used in the response is varied and sophisticated, with some less common vocabulary.)
For Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 9.5 (The grammar and syntax are accurate and complex, with only minor errors.)
For Presentation of Ideas: 9.0 (The ideas are presented clearly and effectively, with appropriate use of supporting details and examples.)

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