APES Human Impacts of Aquatic Ecosystems

BOD

Biochemical Oxygen Demand; measures oxygen needed by bacteria.

Dead Zone

Area with low oxygen, harming marine life.

Lionfish

Invasive species threatening native fish populations.

Crown of Thorns Sea Star

Predator of coral, contributing to reef degradation.

Black Band Disease

Pathogen affecting coral health and survival.

Surface Runoff

Water flow from land carrying pollutants to oceans.

Acidification

Decrease in pH affecting marine organisms' survival.

Pollutant Zone

Area with high pollutants, reducing biodiversity.

Reef Importance

Coral reefs support diverse marine ecosystems.

Physical Threats

Damage from boats, anchors, and chains to ecosystems.

Chemical Impacts

Harmful effects of chemicals on aquatic life.

Sedimentation

Soil particles settling, affecting water quality.

Plastic Waste

Non-biodegradable materials harming marine habitats.

Oxygen SAG Curve

Graph showing oxygen levels in aquatic environments.

Aquatic Organisms

Species dependent on specific environmental conditions.

Tourism Benefits

Economic gain from recreational activities in marine areas.

CAFO Runoff

Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations contributing to pollution.

Coral Bleaching

Loss of color in corals due to stress factors.

Heavy Metals

Toxic elements accumulating in marine organisms.