How many years of ocean acidification do scientists predict before shells of some ocean creatures will start to dissolve?

Scientists predict that the shells of some ocean creatures will start to dissolve due to ocean acidification within approximately 40 years. This prediction is based on ongoing research into how increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere lead to higher concentrations of carbonic acid in ocean water. As the water becomes more acidic, it affects the calcium carbonate saturation state, which is crucial for the formation and maintenance of shells in organisms such as mollusks, corals, and certain plankton.

The timeline of about 40 years reflects a combination of factors, including current levels of greenhouse gas emissions and the rate at which they are projected to increase. Understanding this timescale is essential as it indicates that immediate mitigation actions are necessary to protect marine ecosystems. The impacts of ocean acidification are expected to be significant, affecting food webs, biodiversity, and the fishing industry. Therefore, the 40-year projection serves as a crucial warning for environmental policy and scientific research to safeguard marine life.