The IELTS Reading section is known for its diverse range of topics, from science and technology to social issues and environmental studies. One such critical topic that has surfaced multiple times is the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems. Given the increasing relevance of climate change in today’s discourse, this subject not only has a high likelihood of appearing in exams but also provides a wealth of vocabulary and concept understanding that could be beneficial for test-takers.
Sample IELTS Reading Passage: “Effects of Climate Change on Ocean Ecosystems”
Ocean Ecosystems and Climate Change: A Nexus of Sustainability Challenges
The ocean, covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface, plays a crucial role in regulating climate and supporting life. However, climate change is inducing profound changes in ocean ecosystems. These changes are multifaceted, affecting biological, chemical, and physical aspects of the marine environment. Understanding these effects is essential for devising mitigation strategies and ensuring the sustainability of these ecosystems.
Ocean Acidification
One significant consequence of climate change is ocean acidification, which occurs as the ocean absorbs excess carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. The absorbed CO2 reacts with seawater to form carbonic acid, leading to a decline in pH levels. This acidification process adversely affects calcifying organisms such as corals, shellfish, and certain types of plankton, which rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells and skeletons.
Rising Sea Temperatures
Another pressing issue is the rise in sea temperatures. Warmer waters can lead to the bleaching of coral reefs, which occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white. Coral bleaching not only disrupts entire marine ecosystems but also affects coastal communities that depend on them for food, tourism, and shoreline protection.
Melting Polar Ice and Rising Sea Levels
Climate change is also causing polar ice to melt at unprecedented rates, contributing to rising sea levels. This not only threatens coastal habitats but also leads to the loss of biodiversity as species unique to those areas face habitat loss. Additionally, the influx of freshwater from melting ice disrupts ocean currents, which can further exacerbate climate change effects globally.
Impact on Marine Biodiversity
The combined impacts of ocean acidification, rising temperatures, and sea level rise present a grave threat to marine biodiversity. Species migration, altered breeding cycles, and disrupted food webs are some of the cascading effects observed. Protecting marine biodiversity thus requires comprehensive strategies addressing various facets of climate change.
Questions
Multiple Choice
-
What is one primary cause of ocean acidification?
A. Increase in atmospheric CO2
B. Decrease in fish populations
C. Rising sea levels
D. Increased sunlight exposure -
Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a consequence of rising sea temperatures?
A. Coral bleaching
B. Increased algae growth
C. Disruption to marine ecosystems
D. Impact on coastal communities
Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given)
- Ocean acidification has no effect on plankton. (True/False/Not Given)
- Coastal habitats are primarily threatened by pollution rather than rising sea levels. (True/False/Not Given)
Matching Information
-
Match the phenomenon to its effect:
- A. Melting polar ice
- B. Increasing CO2 absorption
- C. Rising sea temperatures
i. Causes ocean acidification
ii. Leads to coral bleaching
iii. Contributes to rising sea levels
Sentence Completion
- Coral reefs bleach when corals expel __.
Answer Keys
- A – Increase in atmospheric CO2
- B – Increased algae growth
- False – Ocean acidification affects organisms like plankton.
- Not Given – Rising sea levels and pollution are both threats but the passage doesn’t compare their significance.
-
- A iii. Contributes to rising sea levels
- B i. Causes ocean acidification
- C ii. Leads to coral bleaching
- symbiotic algae
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Misinterpreting Acidification: Many candidates confuse acidification with warming. Ensure clear understanding of terms.
- Generalization Errors: Be specific about which effects are attributed to which cause. For instance, coral bleaching is due to warming, not acidification.
- Detail Overlook: Don’t skip over minute details, especially during True/False/Not Given questions as these often hinge on specific information.
Vocabulary Boost
- Acidification (noun) [ˌæsɪdɪfɪˈkeɪʃən] – Process of becoming acidic.
- Calcifying (adjective) [ˈkælsɪfaɪɪŋ] – Process involving the deposit of calcium salts.
- Symbiotic (adjective) [ˌsɪmbiˈɒtɪk] – Close and often long-term interaction between different biological species.
Grammar Spotlight
Present Continuous for Ongoing Situations:
- “Climate change is inducing profound changes in ocean ecosystems.”
Formula:
- Subject + is/am/are + verb(-ing)
Example:
- “The company is launching a new product next week.”
Tips for High IELTS Reading Scores
- Read Widely: Diversify your reading materials to include scientific articles, journals, and current events related to climate change.
- Practice Skimming: Quickly identify main ideas without getting bogged down in details.
- Time Management: Allocate time wisely to ensure you can answer all questions without rushing.
Ensure consistent practice, and review correct and incorrect answers to identify patterns in question types you find challenging. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
For further reading on similar topics, visit our articles on How is Climate Change Affecting Global Ecosystems, What are the Effects of Climate Change on Marine Ecosystems, and Challenges in Protecting Marine Biodiversity.