Connecting Ideas in Climate Change Lecture
Listen to the following lecture delivered by Dr. Patel on the subject of climate change and its effects on marine ecosystems:
Dr. Patel: Good afternoon, everyone. Today, I want to discuss the troubling impacts of climate change on our oceans. As global temperatures rise, ocean waters are warming, leading to significant alterations in marine life habitats. For instance, coral reefs, which are extremely sensitive to temperature changes, are experiencing widespread bleaching. This phenomenon occurs when coral polyps expel the algae that live in their tissues, which not only affects the coral’s color but also disrupts the entire ecosystem reliant on coral for shelter and food.
Furthermore, the increase in CO2 levels is causing ocean acidification, which negatively impacts shellfish and other calcium-dependent organisms. If this trend continues, we could see a substantial decline in seafood availability for many coastal communities. In light of these changes, it is crucial we consider sustainable practices to preserve marine biodiversity and protect our oceans. Policy measures and international cooperation are more important than ever in combating climate change.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.