The depletion of ocean resources can be attributed to several factors, but two major causes are:
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Overfishing: Overfishing occurs when fish are caught at a rate faster than they can reproduce. This leads to a decline in fish populations, disrupting marine ecosystems and threatening the livelihoods of communities that depend on fishing. Unsustainable fishing practices, including the use of destructive gear and bycatch, exacerbate the problem, further depleting not only target fish species but also other marine life.
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Pollution: Ocean pollution from various sources, including plastics, chemicals, and agricultural runoff, significantly impacts marine ecosystems. Pollutants can harm marine organisms, disrupt food chains, and lead to the degradation of habitats such as coral reefs and mangroves. Additionally, nutrient runoff can cause harmful algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and create dead zones where marine life cannot survive.
Addressing these issues requires coordinated global efforts to implement sustainable practices, improve regulations, and reduce pollution.