Fish Can Suffocate in Water: How Pollution and Heat Create Oxygen Hunger.

According to ТСН: The idea that fish can suffocate in water may seem strange, as water is their natural habitat. However, this problem affects both wild and aquarium fish. Experts explain that the issue is not with the water itself, but with access to oxygen and the functioning of gills.

Oxygen for Fish

Fish, like all living beings, require oxygen. They obtain it not through lungs, but through gills — thin plates with blood vessels through which water must constantly flow. If the water flow is stable and contains enough oxygen, fish do not face difficulties. But changes in conditions can lead to breathing problems.

Hazards for Fish

When there is not enough oxygen in a body of water, fish can suffocate while remaining in the water. This occurs due to pollution, stagnation, overcrowding, or rising temperatures. Polluted or stagnant water becomes dangerous, especially in heat or during mass waste discharges. Cold water holds more oxygen, while warm water holds less, so rising temperatures only exacerbate the risks.

Situation Out of Water

On air, fish can suffocate even faster. Gills stick together, and most species die within minutes. Only some fish have adaptations that allow them to survive longer.

Impact of Climate Change

Climate change and pollution complicate breathing for many fish species. They do not drown in the literal sense, but can lose their ability to obtain oxygen — this is the primary reason for their "silent" death in water.

Let us remind you that scientists have observed invisible clouds of microplastics over large cities in China. Research has shown that the extent of atmospheric pollution has been underestimated for years.

The decrease in oxygen levels in waters is a serious threat not only to fish but also to the ecosystem as a whole. This issue has a direct impact on fisheries and water resources, requiring attention and action from the community and governments.