💨 Abstract

The Chesapeake Bay experienced record-low oxygen levels this summer, a condition known as hypoxia. Mike Trice of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources reported that hypoxia levels were triple the normal amount in late June, affecting aquatic life and habitats. Hypoxia stresses organisms, reduces habitat size, and increases predation on immobile creatures like oysters and clams. Trice suggests improving wastewater treatment and reducing runoff and fertilizer use to mitigate this issue.

Courtesy: Valerie Bonk