aragonite saturation state

Aragonite saturation state refers to the level of aragonite, a form of calcium carbonate, in ocean water. It indicates how suitable the water is for marine organisms, like corals and shellfish, to form their shells and skeletons. A higher saturation state means there’s more aragonite available, which is generally good for these creatures. Conversely, a lower saturation state can make it harder for them to grow and thrive, often linked to ocean acidification from increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Monitoring this helps scientists understand the health of marine ecosystems and the impacts of climate change.