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Hypoxia (environmental)

Hypoxia (environmental) refers to a condition in which an environment is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level. It is a severe form of oxygen deprivation, which can have significant impacts on both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

Causes

Environmental hypoxia can be caused by a variety of factors. In aquatic environments, it is often the result of eutrophication, a process in which excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, lead to an overgrowth of algae and other plant life. This overgrowth can deplete the water's oxygen levels, leading to hypoxic conditions. Other causes can include changes in temperature, salinity, and pressure, as well as the presence of certain chemicals or pollutants.

In terrestrial environments, hypoxia can occur due to high altitudes, where the air's oxygen content is lower. It can also be caused by poor air quality, such as in areas with high levels of air pollution.

Effects

The effects of environmental hypoxia can be severe and wide-ranging. In aquatic environments, it can lead to mass die-offs of fish and other marine life, as well as a decrease in biodiversity. It can also disrupt the food chain and lead to economic losses in fisheries and aquaculture.

In terrestrial environments, hypoxia can affect the health and survival of both humans and animals. It can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, and confusion in humans, and can be fatal in severe cases.

Prevention and Mitigation

Preventing and mitigating environmental hypoxia involves addressing its underlying causes. This can include reducing nutrient pollution, improving air quality, and managing land use to prevent soil erosion and runoff. In some cases, it may also involve the use of aeration devices or other technologies to increase oxygen levels in water bodies.

See Also

• Anoxia (environmental)
• Dead zone (ecology)
• Oxygen minimum zone