Effects of CO2-driven ocean acidification on the early developmental stages of invertebrates

CO 2 emissions arising from the burning of fossil fuels have altered seawater chemistry far more rapidly than the Earth has previously experienced, and the rate and extent of this change are expected to affect shallow water marine organisms. The increased CO 2 diffuses from the atmosphere into ocean surface waters, resulting in increased partial pressure of CO 2 , and reduced [CO 3 2 -] and pH. The CO 2 -driven ocean acidification leads to a decrease in calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 ) saturation state in the ocean surface waters and has potential impacts on calcifiers. The present study focuses on the effects of ocean acidification on early developmental and reproductive stages of calcifiers, both of which are…