Biomes And Ecosystems Questions Medium
The major threats to marine ecosystems include pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, climate change, and invasive species. Pollution from sources such as oil spills, chemical runoff, and plastic waste can have detrimental effects on marine life and their habitats. Overfishing, where fish populations are harvested at unsustainable rates, can disrupt the balance of marine ecosystems and lead to the collapse of certain species. Habitat destruction, such as the destruction of coral reefs or coastal development, can result in the loss of critical habitats for marine organisms. Climate change, including rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, can have widespread impacts on marine ecosystems, affecting the distribution and abundance of species. Lastly, invasive species, when introduced into new environments, can outcompete native species and disrupt the natural balance of marine ecosystems. These threats collectively pose significant challenges to the health and sustainability of marine ecosystems.