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ago in Environmental Chemistry by (550 points)
How does the concentration of dissolved oxygen in water affect the survival and growth of aquatic organisms in contaminated water bodies?

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ago by (110 points)
The concentration of dissolved oxygen  DO  in water plays a crucial role in the survival and growth of aquatic organisms, particularly in contaminated water bodies. Contaminated water bodies often contain pollutants, toxins, and other harmful substances that can negatively impact the health and well-being of aquatic organisms. The presence of adequate dissolved oxygen levels can help mitigate some of these negative effects. Here's how:1. Respiration: Aquatic organisms, such as fish, invertebrates, and microorganisms, rely on dissolved oxygen for respiration. Adequate DO levels are essential for their survival, as it allows them to efficiently convert food into energy and eliminate waste products. In contaminated water bodies, the presence of pollutants may increase the metabolic demand of these organisms, making it even more critical for them to have access to sufficient oxygen levels.2. Detoxification: Some aquatic organisms have the ability to detoxify certain pollutants and contaminants. Adequate DO levels can enhance this detoxification process, helping organisms to better cope with the presence of harmful substances in their environment.3. Breakdown of pollutants: In some cases, dissolved oxygen can help facilitate the breakdown of pollutants in water. For example, aerobic bacteria can use DO to break down organic pollutants, such as sewage and agricultural runoff, into less harmful substances. This process, known as biodegradation, can help improve water quality and create a more hospitable environment for aquatic organisms.4. Food chain support: Adequate DO levels support the growth and reproduction of primary producers, such as algae and aquatic plants, which form the base of the food chain in aquatic ecosystems. A healthy food chain is essential for the survival and growth of all aquatic organisms, particularly in contaminated water bodies where food sources may be limited.5. Stress reduction: Aquatic organisms exposed to pollutants and contaminants may experience increased stress levels, which can negatively impact their growth, reproduction, and overall health. Adequate DO levels can help alleviate some of this stress, allowing organisms to better cope with their challenging environment.In summary, the concentration of dissolved oxygen in water is a critical factor that affects the survival and growth of aquatic organisms in contaminated water bodies. Adequate DO levels can help support respiration, detoxification, pollutant breakdown, food chain support, and stress reduction, ultimately improving the overall health and well-being of aquatic organisms in these challenging environments.
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