When Considering Open Ocean Plankton, an Increase in Carbon Dioxide

Question

When considering open ocean plankton, an increase in carbon dioxide
A) Will affect diatoms the most
B) Will first affect plankton secreting aragonite
C) Will first affect plankton secreting calcite
D) Will have little effect at higher latitudes

Accepted Answer

Plankton that secrete aragonite, a form of calcium carbonate, are more susceptible to changes in carbon dioxide levels because aragonite is more soluble in water than calcite. Increased CO2 levels lead to more acidic ocean conditions, which can dissolve aragonite more readily, affecting these organisms first.