Dead Zones
"Dead Zones" are areas in oceans or large lakes where the oxygen level is so low that most marine life cannot survive. These zones are often caused by excessive nutrient pollution, primarily from agricultural runoff, which leads to algal blooms. When the algae die and decompose, the process consumes oxygen, creating a hypoxic environment.
These regions can vary in size and can significantly impact local ecosystems and fisheries. The Gulf of Mexico is one of the most well-known examples of a Dead Zone, where the annual summer hypoxic area can cover thousands of square miles, affecting both wildlife and human activities.