key term - Impacts on aquatic ecosystems

Definition

Impacts on aquatic ecosystems refer to the negative effects that human activities, such as pollution and habitat destruction, have on the health and balance of freshwater and marine environments. These impacts can disrupt food chains, decrease biodiversity, and harm water quality.

Related terms

Eutrophication:

Eutrophication is when excessive nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) enter a body of water, leading to an overgrowth of algae. This overgrowth depletes oxygen levels in the water, harming other organisms.

Acidification:

Acidification occurs when carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, lowering its pH level. This change in acidity can negatively impact marine life by affecting their ability to build shells or skeletons.

Overfishing:

Overfishing refers to catching too many fish from a population without giving them enough time to reproduce. This practice can lead to declines in fish populations and disrupt entire marine food webs.