How Does Pollution Affect Marine Life?

Pollution in the oceans has reached new heights, creating an ever-increasing threat to our beautiful marine life. The causes of ocean pollution include a variety of human activities, including industrial waste and plastic pollution. How does pollution affect marine life? 

Pollution not only disrupts the overall health of ocean ecosystems, but also has a devastating effect on marine life animals. Let’s take a look at the different types of pollution that affect the oceans, their specific impacts on ocean ecosystems, and the extent of damage inflicted on the animals that call it home.

Marine Life in Danger

From the smallest plankton to the largest whales, marine life is directly affected by pollution. The main cause for concern is that they’ll ingest plastic debris. 

Sea turtles, for example, can mistake plastic bags for jellyfish – one of their primary food sources. This leads to dangerous blockages in their digestive systems.