What Is Fish Kill?
Thousands of dead fish washed up on the beaches of southeast Texas due to a phenomenon called “fish kill,” which occurs when low levels of dissolved oxygen in the water cause suffocation of the fish.
- Texas is a state in the South Central region of the United States.
- It is the second-largest U.S. state by both area and population.
- The occurrence, known as a fish kill, resulted in the death of various fish species and has been attributed to specific environmental factors.
- The fish kill in Texas can be attributed to low oxygen levels in the water.
- When oxygen levels drop significantly, fish are unable to breathe, leading to suffocation and ultimately death.
- This situation is exacerbated when numerous fish are affected within a specific area over a short period.
- Several factors played a role in the Texas fish kill.
- Warm water temperatures reduce the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water, making it harder for fish to breathe.
- Additionally, calm seas prevent oxygen from being replenished through wind and waves, further exacerbating the oxygen depletion.