Sharks may face a future where feeding efficiently becomes a struggle, according to a new study linking ocean acidification to damage to their teeth. Sharks rely on multiple rows of teeth that continuously replace themselves, but rising ocean acidity could accelerate tooth erosion beyond natural replacement rates. Damaged teeth could compromise sharks’ hunting ability, potentially affecting populations and the stability of marine ecosystems.
Ocean acidification occurs as oceans absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, lowering pH levels. By 2300, average ocean pH could drop from 8.1 to 7.3, posing serious risks to marine life. Researchers tested 60 naturally shed teeth from blacktip reef sharks in tanks simulating current and future ocean acidity. Teeth in the more acidic conditions suffered roughly double the damage, including root corrosion and altered serrations.
Dental stress would compound other threats to sharks, such as prey shortages from overfishing. Even moderate acidification could disproportionately affect species with slower tooth replacement or fewer tooth rows. While sharks might adapt by increasing tooth regeneration or repair, the study underscores the broader vulnerability of highly mineralized structures in ocean predators.
Experts highlight that acidification already harms corals, shells, and mussels, and this study extends concerns to apex predators. Further research will determine whether damaged teeth significantly impair sharks’ ability to hunt, though early findings suggest even corroded teeth may retain some functionality. Reducing human-caused CO₂ emissions remains critical to limit these impacts.
