- Overfishing: Fishing activities in the Pelagic Ocean Zone have led to overfishing of many commercially valuable fish species, such as tuna, swordfish, and mackerel. This has disrupted the marine food chain and caused a decline in fish populations.
- Bycatch: Fishing activities also result in bycatch, which is the unintended capture of non-target species, such as seabirds, turtles, and dolphins. Bycatch can lead to the death of these animals and disrupt the balance of the marine ecosystem.
- Plastic pollution: Plastic waste from human activities, such as discarded fishing gear and plastic bags, ends up in the Pelagic Ocean Zone. Plastic pollution can entangle marine life, causing injury or death. It can also be ingested by marine animals, blocking their digestive systems and causing starvation.
- Climate change: The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, leading to climate change. Climate change is causing the ocean to become warmer and more acidic, which has negative effects on marine life. Warmer waters can lead to coral bleaching and the loss of important habitats for marine species. Ocean acidification can make it difficult for marine organisms to build their shells and skeletons, affecting their survival.
- Oil spills: Oil spills from oil tankers and drilling rigs can have devastating effects on the Pelagic Ocean Zone. Oil can coat the surface of the water, preventing oxygen from entering the water column. This can lead to the death of marine life, including plankton, fish, and seabirds. Oil spills can also damage coral reefs and other important marine habitats.
