logo

Measuring Acidification

To understand the severity of ocean acidification, scientists monitor changes in ocean chemistry and use models to predict future conditions.

Introduction
Acidification Monitoring and Modeling

The first step in understanding the impacts of ocean acidification is to look at the seawater carbonate chemistry parameters, including pH, Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC), pCO₂, and Total Alkalinity (TA). These parameters can provide insight into the severity of ocean acidification and biological response. There are two main ways to determine seawater carbonate chemistry: through monitoring and modeling.

Monitoring refers to repeated measurements of seawater carbonate chemistry occurring in the same place over time. The rate, severity, and ultimate impact of ocean acidification can vary significantly across space and time. For this reason, it is important that monitoring takes place at diverse locations to reflect the unique biogeochemical conditions of different ecosystems. Depending on the frequency of data collection, monitoring can help scientists understand trends in ocean acidification at different time scales, detecting anything from daily to decadal trends.

Mathematical models leverage observational data and known physical ocean properties to predict seawater carbonate chemistry. We can’t monitor ocean acidification everywhere and at all times, so models can help fill in the gaps in our understanding. Models are often used to forecast future conditions.

Coordination of Regional Monitoring

We are helping our partners develop a regional monitoring network to understand trends in acidification, identify hotspots where species may be impacted, and fill gaps where additional monitoring may be needed.

The monitoring network is designed to:

  • Target areas of high acidification impact in both estuarine and ocean shelf systems
  • Take samples using high quality calibrated sensor systems
  • Include measurements of multiple carbonate chemistry parameters (e.g. pH, pCO₂, DIC, and total alkalinity)
  • Consider other water quality measurements for multiple stressors (i.e. dissolved oxygen, temperature, and dissolved nutrients)
  • Incorporate data that can be used to develop models that can predict the impacts of changing water chemistry in the region

The Mid-Atlantic Ocean Data Portal hosts several maps showing locations where carbonate chemistry is currently being monitored. The maps also provide detailed information about monitoring methods, frequency of data collection, and links to access our partners data.

Want More Information About Our Monitoring Network?
Contact Us

Get Involved

If you are interested in learning more about MACAN and the work we do, please sign up for our monthly newsletter. You can also read our 2024 to 2028 Work Plan.

View Macan's 2024-2028 Work plan
logo 1

The Mid-Atlantic Coastal Acidification Network. All Rights Reserved.

Privacy and Disclaimer

Site By3Lane Marketing