Effects of Global Warming on Ocean Life

Global warming is the increase in the Earth's temperature as the result of greenhouse-gas emissions. As the phenomenon continues, devastating consequences will be felt across the globe. The ocean may be one of the hardest hit of the world's resources.

Microscopic Plants

As the world's oceans grow warmer and more acidic, fewer of the billions of tiny plants that are at the bottom of the ocean food chain are growing. These plants, called phytoplankton, are a necessary part of ocean life because they are a food source for other ocean species.

Stronger Storms

Another effect of global warming is that stronger hurricanes are forming over warmer ocean waters. These devastating storms also drastically affect ocean life by disturbing and destroying animal habitats and killing and injuring animals.

Coral Reefs

Global warming has a drastic effect on coral reefs, which are a vital habitat for hundreds of fish species and other types of marine life. As temperatures rise, the coral reefs die and in some cases collapse, destroying food and shelter opportunities for some species.

Animal Populations

Research has shown that the populations of cool-water ocean species have been dwindling as ocean temperatures have been rising. At the same time, the population of warm-water ocean animals has seen no change or has increased.

Land Animals

As the polar ice caps melt, the natural habitat for animals that depend on the ocean for survival, such as polar bears, are being destroyed. If these animals are forced from their habitats or become extinct, some ocean species will no longer have natural predators, and their populations will boom.