Journal Entry Six(Chapter 6)-Ziomara Aguilar

Kolbert's next stop is a small island called Castillo Aragonese in the middle of the Tyrrhenian Sea that was formed millions of years ago due to the pressure between Eurasia and African tectonic plate, this can also cause the release of carbon dioxide gas. Kolbert comes here to investigate the carbon dioxide levels of the surrounding water. Here, she meets two marine biologists, Jason Hall-Spencer and Maria Cristina Buia. They take her scuba diving and show her bubbles rising from seafloor vents.  Near these vents, there is very little sea life. This is due to the high levels of carbon dioxide which has a negative impact on marine life. Since the Industrial Revolution, carbon dioxide levels have increased because of the fossil fuels burned from factories and because of all the trees that have been cut down. The increase of carbon dioxide means that there is an increase in the ocean's acidity.

Kolbert predicts that by the year 2050 the ocean will be 150% more acidic than it was in 1800. The increase of carbon dioxide emitting wents have eroded the shells of many sea creatures. Acidification is very dangerous as it deprives nutrients for large animals, interferes with photosynthesis and wipes out ecosystems.

The theme that connects is that humans alter natural systems. This is because humans have been emitting carbon dioxide too quickly and creatures cant adapt.