Marine flora and fauna are a rich source of food as well as number of products. Numerous animal and plant species survive in the seas and a number of these are consumed by human beings. Fishing activities and oil extraction on sea shores are affecting the productivity of marine resources.
Causes of Decline of Marine Resources:
i. Fishing:
Fishing has become a massive industry across the globe. Earlier, the fishermen used to cast their nets only during the time when the fish in the area did not breed. Also, the nets did not catch the young fish, which were left to grow bigger. But today the mechanized fishing does not pay heed to the breeding season. The new nets catch the young fish along with the big ones. Fish do not get sufficient time to breed, and this has led to a decrease in the number of fish in the sea.
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ii. Oil spills:
Oil extraction and the resultant oil spills are harming the marine environment. They do not allow the precious marine flora and fauna to survive.
iii. Dumping of wastes:
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Dumping of wastes in ocean waters has hampered the survival of aquatic plants and animals.
Effects of Decline of Marine Resources:
Some of the effects of decline of marine resources are as follows:
i. The decreasing fish population will cause a rise in the price of fish.
ii. With little marine edibles available, fishermen are in danger of losing their livelihood. This is leading to further migration to urban areas.
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iii. Decline in marine species that are in high demand, like cod and salmon due to over- exploitation.
iv. Many people living in coastal areas depend on fish as their food. Such communities will suffer from malnutrition.
v. Destruction of coral reefs will affect tourism. Industries based on marine products will get affected. This will adversely affect national economy and employment.