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NOVA: Lethal Seas

Carbon bubbles underwater at CO2 reef, Alotau, Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea.
Courtesy of K. Fabricius
Carbon bubbles underwater at CO2 reef, Alotau, Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea.

Airs Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2019 at 9 p.m. on KPBS TV + Sunday, Sept. 1 at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2

A deadly recipe threatens the survival of countless creatures throughout Earth’s oceans.

We’ve known for years that oceans absorb about a quarter of the carbon dioxide in our atmosphere.

With carbon emissions sharply rising, the silent killer is entering the seas at a staggering rate — raising the oceans’ acidity.

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As a result, the skeletons and shells of marine creatures that form the foundation of the web of life are dissolving.

On "Lethal Seas," follow scientists who are seeking solutions and making breakthrough discoveries, including a unique coral garden in Papua New Guinea that offers a glimpse of what the seas could be like in a half-century.

Can experts crack the code of a rapidly changing ocean — before it’s too late?

Dr. Laetitia Plaisance at work under water, on the reef Alotau, Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea.
Courtesy of S. Ingleton
Dr. Laetitia Plaisance at work under water, on the reef Alotau, Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea.

Related Articles:

Oceans of Acid: How Fossil Fuels Could Destroy Marine Ecosystems by Scott Doney

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Hope from the Deeps for Coral Reefs by Veronique Greenwood

How Millions of People Can Help Solve Climate Change by Thomas W. Malone, Robert Laubacher and Laur Fisher

Fish and coral reef.
Courtesy of Craig Humphries
Fish and coral reef.

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This full episode is available to stream on demand with KPBS Passport, video streaming for members ($60 yearly) using your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon Fire or Chromecast. Learn how to activate your benefit now.

Clown fish on a coral reef.
Courtesy of Craig Humphries
Clown fish on a coral reef.

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Explore the science behind the headlines in PBS’ premier science series. With compelling stories and spectacular visuals, NOVA programs demystify science and technology for viewers of all ages and spotlight people involved in scientific pursuits.