A significant decline has been witnessed in the numbers of phytoplankton. As per a new research by MIT, the University of Alabama and other academic institutions, it has been due to the increased acidification of our oceans.

Study's lead researcher Stephanie Dutkiewicz from MIT in the Center for Global Change Science said as per the study finding, a severe disturbance will take place in the numbers of phytoplanktons. As part of the study, the researchers have assessed the reactions of phytoplankton in different situations of climate change.

The researchers said the ocean has absorbed up to 30% of carbon dioxide that humans have released into the atmosphere. From 8.2, the pH of oceans has dropped to 8.1 and the researchers think that it could decline further to 7.8 by 2100.

Scientists have warned that if the level of acidic waters increases then it creates a situation where some species may compete and eliminate other species forever and it will have direct effect on phytoplankton.

Ocean acidification is also expected to kill some phytoplankton species. The researchers are expecting that warming waters will lead to mass phytoplankton migrations towards the poles. Ingrid Biedron, marine scientist at the nonprofit group Oceana, said people can help change this situation.

People should use energy-efficient transportation, buy compact fluorescent light bulbs, do a home energy audit and reduce the level of food wastage.