Climate Change

What is ocean acidification?

Ocean acidification occurs when carbon dioxide reacts with seawater to produce carbonic acid. This raises surrounding acidity levels and lowers carbonate ion levels, making it harder for oysters and other shellfish to produce the calcium carbonate needed to form their shells.

How will climate change affect the Chesapeake Bay?

Climate change has already led to sea-level rise, increased air and water temperatures, prolonged periods of extreme weather, a rise in coastal flooding and shoreline erosion, and changes in wildlife abundance and migration patterns in the Chesapeake Bay and around the world.

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