Dead zones

Dead zones are areas in bodies of water, like oceans or lakes, where oxygen levels become so low that most marine life cannot survive. They typically form when excess nutrients from sources like agriculture or wastewater cause algae to grow rapidly. When the algae die and decompose, the process consumes large amounts of oxygen, leaving little behind for fish and other marine organisms. These zones are often found near coastlines and can disrupt marine ecosystems, fisheries, and local economies. Dead zones are a growing environmental concern because they threaten biodiversity and the health of aquatic environments.