The ocean is getting more acidic, and it could affect sharks’ teeth

A new study reveals that increasing ocean acidity due to climate change is causing significant damage to shark teeth, which could hinder their hunting abilities and destabilize marine ecosystems. Researchers from Heinrich Heine University in Germany conducted an experiment using naturally shed teeth from blacktip reef sharks, exposing them to water with different pH levels to simulate future ocean conditions. After eight weeks, teeth in more acidic water (pH 7.3, projected for 2300) showed increased corrosion, cracks, and structural degradation compared to those in current pH levels (around 8.1-8.2). This damage could reduce the efficiency of sharks’ feeding, as they rely on sharp teeth to catch and consume prey, and with slower tooth replacement in some species, cumulative damage might lead to energy deficits. Ocean acidification, driven by carbon dioxide absorption from the atmosphere lowering pH levels, has already affected corals and shells, and this study extends the concern to apex predators like sharks. The study has limitations, such as using shed teeth rather than live animals and an extreme acidification scenario, with previous research by Ivan Nagelkerken finding some shark teeth resistant to acidification, indicating a need for more studies. Experts like Lisa Whitenack suggest that sharks might adapt through faster tooth replacement, but functional impacts on hunting efficiency require further investigation. Reducing CO2 emissions is crucial to mitigate these effects and protect marine biodiversity, highlighting the interconnected risks of climate change on ocean health.