key term - Dead Zones

Definition

Dead zones are areas in bodies of water where oxygen levels are extremely low or completely depleted, leading to a lack of aquatic life. These zones often result from excessive nutrient pollution, causing algal blooms that deplete oxygen when they decompose.

Related terms

Eutrophication:

Eutrophication is the process by which bodies of water become enriched with nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus), leading to excessive plant growth (algae) and subsequent dead zones.

Hypoxia:

Hypoxia refers to low oxygen levels in water, which can occur in dead zones. It is harmful to aquatic organisms that require oxygen for survival.

Nutrient Pollution: Nutrient pollution happens when excessive amounts of nutrients, often from human activities like agriculture and wastewater discharge, enter water bodies and contribute to the formation of dead zones.