Climate Change and Oceans explores the largely unexamined impacts of global warming on deep-sea currents and ecosystems, highlighting the critical role these systems play in regulating the Earth's climate.
The book uniquely focuses on the deep ocean, an area often overlooked in climate change discussions, despite its importance in global heat distribution, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration.
It reveals how seemingly stable deep-sea environments are increasingly vulnerable, potentially leading to significant alterations with far-reaching consequences.
The book begins by establishing the scientific context, explaining oceanographic principles like thermohaline circulation and deep-water formation, before examining evidence of climate-driven changes.
It addresses slowing circulation rates, temperature and salinity shifts, and ocean acidification.
Did you know that deep-sea ecosystems harbor unique biodiversity, including cold-water coral reefs and hydrothermal vent communities?
The book synthesizes data from research vessels, satellites, and climate models to present an up-to-date assessment of the threats to these deep-sea realms.
Structured in three parts, Climate Change and Oceans progresses from fundamental concepts to evidence of change and finally, impacts on ecosystems.
It connects Earth sciences geography with marine biology and climate modeling to provide a holistic understanding.
The book offers a comprehensive look at the science, exploring potential mitigation and adaptation strategies, making it valuable to students, researchers, and anyone concerned about the future of our oceans.
