Bingkai Karya – Ocean deoxygenation is a serious threat to marine life and the global ecosystem. It is caused by a number of factors, including climate change, pollution, and nutrient runoff.
What is ocean deoxygenation?
Ocean deoxygenation is the process by which the amount of oxygen in the ocean decreases. This can happen naturally, but it is being accelerated by human activities.
What causes ocean deoxygenation?
The main cause of ocean deoxygenation is climate change. As the ocean warms, it holds less oxygen. This is because warmer water molecules are more energetic and can move around more freely, making it harder for them to hold onto oxygen.
Other factors that contribute to ocean deoxygenation include:
- Pollution: Sewage, agricultural runoff, and other pollutants can enter the ocean and stimulate the growth of algae and bacteria. These organisms consume oxygen as they decompose, which can lead to deoxygenation.
- Nutrient runoff: Fertilizers and other nutrients from agricultural runoff can also enter the ocean and stimulate the growth of algae and bacteria.
What are the effects of ocean deoxygenation?
Ocean deoxygenation has a number of negative effects on marine life, including:
- Reduced growth and reproduction: Many marine animals need oxygen to breathe and grow. When oxygen levels are low, these animals may not be able to get enough oxygen to meet their needs. This can lead to reduced growth and reproduction.
- Increased susceptibility to disease: Low oxygen levels can also make marine animals more susceptible to disease. This is because oxygen is needed for the immune system to function properly.
- Death: In extreme cases, low oxygen levels can kill marine animals. This is known as a “dead zone.”
What can be done to address ocean deoxygenation?
There are a number of things that can be done to address ocean deoxygenation, including:
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is the most important thing that can be done to address climate change and ocean deoxygenation.
- Reducing pollution: Reducing pollution from sewage, agricultural runoff, and other sources can help to improve oxygen levels in the ocean.
- Managing nutrient runoff: Managing nutrient runoff from farms and other sources can also help to improve oxygen levels in the ocean.
Ocean deoxygenation is a serious problem, but it is one that can be addressed. By taking steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, and nutrient runoff, we can help to protect marine life and the global ecosystem.
Source: Mongabay
