What is the primary effect of oil spills on marine ecosystems? 🔊
Oil spills have a devastating effect on marine ecosystems, causing significant damage to marine life. The toxic components in oil can harm or kill fish, birds, and marine mammals, disrupting food chains and habitats. Moreover, oil can coat the feathers of aquatic birds, impairing their ability to thermoregulate and leading to mortality. Additionally, oil spills can hinder the reproductive cycles of marine organisms, resulting in long-term population declines and reduced biodiversity. Cleaning efforts can also cause further disturbances to these sensitive ecosystems, making recovery challenging and often incomplete.
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