Global warming refers to the increase in the Earth’s average temperature due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The impact on marine ecosystems is very significant and affects many aspects of life in it. One major impact is ocean acidification, which occurs when CO2 is absorbed by seawater, producing carbonic acid. This process reduces the availability of calcium carbonate, which is essential for organisms such as coral reefs, mollusks, and various other marine biota to build their shells and structures. Furthermore, global warming also causes sea surface temperatures to rise. These higher temperatures have the potential to affect the distribution of marine species. Some fish species, such as tuna and mackerel, have been seen moving to colder waters towards the poles, affecting existing fishing patterns and ecosystems. This movement can change the dynamics of the food chain and even affect coastal communities that depend on marine resources. Additionally, ocean warming contributes to an increase in the frequency and intensity of tropical storms. Stronger storms can destroy marine habitats, such as coral reefs and seagrass beds, which serve as breeding grounds for many fish species. Damage to coral reefs has a significant impact on biodiversity, considering that they provide habitat for more than 25% of marine fish species. Loss of coral reefs also impacts coastal protection, which can increase erosion and threaten coastal communities. Another major problem is the decline in oxygen in the ocean, often referred to as “oxygen drift”. Rising temperatures increase the respiration rate of marine organisms, resulting in a decrease in oxygen levels in the water, potentially forming “dead zones” where marine life cannot survive. These dead zones have increased in the world’s oceans, triggering serious problems for ecosystems and local economies that depend on fish and marine life. Changes in weather patterns and rainfall caused by global warming also affect marine ecosystems. Freshwater flowing into the sea can change the salinity and nutrients in the marine environment, which affects primary productivity. This decline in productivity will ultimately affect the entire marine food chain. With all these impacts, it is important for us to understand and address global warming. Collective action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect critical habitats, and maintain the survival of marine species. Through these various steps, we can contribute to maintaining marine ecosystems and biodiversity which are very important for the health of the planet and human life.
