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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Ocean Acidification and its Effects on Marine Life

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1713149014

Title: Ocean Acidification and its Effects on Marine Life

Question: "Discuss the impact of ocean acidification on marine life."

Model Answer:

Ocean acidification is a critical environmental issue that has far-reaching implications for marine ecosystems. As the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases due to human activities, particularly through the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, the ocean absorbs a significant portion of this excess carbon dioxide, causing a change in its acidity levels. This rise in acidity has several detrimental effects on marine life, affecting both individual species and entire ecosystems.

Firstly, ocean acidification impacts the ability of marine organisms to form shells or skeletons made from calcium carbonate, which is essential for many species' survival and reproduction. For instance, mollusks like oysters, clams, and snails rely on this process to create their protective shells. As ocean acidification progresses, the availability of calcium carbonate diminishes, making it more challenging for these organisms to form strong shells or skeletons. This can lead to reduced population numbers, affecting species' survival and disrupting food chains in marine ecosystems.

Secondly, acidification alters the behavior of marine creatures, particularly those that depend on their sense of smell to locate food, find mates, or avoid predators. As ocean acidity increases, the olfactory abilities of these organisms are impaired, making it difficult for them to navigate and survive in their environments. This can have significant consequences for species such as fish, which rely on their sense of smell to locate prey and avoid predators. Consequently, populations of these species may decline due to higher mortality rates.

Lastly, ocean acidification also affects the reproduction process of marine creatures, particularly those that rely on larval stages in their life cycles. For example, corals release larvae into the water column, which must settle and metamorphose into new coral colonies to ensure the survival of these species. However, as ocean acidity increases, it becomes increasingly difficult for these larvae to form the necessary structures for successful settlement. This can lead to a decline in coral populations, disrupting the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and affecting other species that depend on coral reefs for their survival.

In conclusion, ocean acidification poses a significant threat to marine life, with far-reaching consequences for individual species and entire ecosystems. It impacts the ability of organisms to form calcium carbonate structures, alters their behavior, and disrupts their reproductive processes. As a result, it is crucial to address the root causes of ocean acidification by implementing policies and practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions to protect marine life and preserve our planet's delicate ecosystems.

Task 2 Writing: Band Score - 8

The question aligns with a real IELTS writing task 2, as it presents a complex and nuanced topic related to environmental issues and requires the candidate to analyze and discuss various aspects of ocean acidification and its effects on marine life. The model answer provided demonstrates a strong understanding of the topic, comprehensive analysis, and clear communication of ideas, which are all key features of an 8-band response in IELTS writing.

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