What Are Dead Zones? |
Also Known As HypoxiaDead zones are hypoxic areas which exist in oceans and lakes. Hypoxic zones can occur naturally, but most of them are human-induced. These areas possess as a threat to marine life and humans as well due to the fact that the ocean serves as a major source of our food supply. Dead zones are caused by eutrophication, 'often from human activities such as agriculture, which results in insufficient oygen to support most marine life in the benthic zone.'
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (2013). NOAA, partners predict possible record-setting dead zone for Gulf of Mexico. Available: http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2013/20130618_deadzone.html. Last accessed 18th Feb 2014.) |