How Does Motor Oil Effect Fish?
Human beings demand motor oil, as oil is necessary in order to operate motor vehicles. The unfortunate consequences of improperly discarding motor oil can cause devastation to fish populations. The April 2010 British Petroleum (BP) disaster is a constant reminder of how oil can damage fish habitats.
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Identification
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Most of the oil that finds its way into streams, rivers and sea comes from human beings changing their motor oil and then discarding it in the trash or street drains. According to H2ohero.org, the EPA through a study concluded that the amount of oil, which washes into waterways across the United States, is enough to power several hundred cars in all 50 states.
Food Chain Interruption
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The very existence of fish is dependent upon the food chain, which sustains life within a water environment. Any destruction in the food chain can affect the balance in the food supply and make food scarce, which could result in starvation of fish or the reproduction of fish species. For example, plankton are microscopic animals, plants and bacteria that live within the water and provide food for all fish (especially small fish)--oil can kill off plankton. In addition, oil can kill plant life, which not only sustains life, as it produces oxygen within the water, but also provides cover from predators and food for fish.
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Death of Fish
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Once motor oil finds its way into a watery environment, fish become contaminated with deadly toxins that can instantaneously kill. Oil is toxic when introduced into the water; it can absorb oxygen and choke the life out of a fish. When this happens, not only can fish die but plankton and plants can die, too.
Short-Term
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When motor oil enters a body of water, it creates a slick foam on top of the water. As the oil mixes with water via tides and currents, a lot of the oil will adhere to wildlife and develop into tar-like balls. According to the Water Encyclopedia, many fish will suffocate when the oil-water concoction attaches itself to the their gills.
Long-Term
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The killing of plants by oil has a long-term effect that can drastically affect large bodies of water. According to Lenntech.com, the abundance of plants within water environments helps sustain food, oxygen, and protect fish from predators, therefore the elimination of plants due to oil can cause a ripple effect of the entire ecosystem. Furthermore, oil's murky presence can cut-off the supply of oxygen for fish eggs and interrupt mating between some species of fish.
Prevention
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According to Maryland's Department of Natural Resources, automobile owners need to check their vehicles periodically for leaks. If a car is leaking oil, the owner must have it repaired immediately. When changing motor oil, properly dispose of the oil at a city recycling center or mechanic shop. When changing a vehicle's motor oil and a spill occurs, immediately use rags or cat litter to absorb the oil; this will prevent it from seeping through the ground, where it could end up in area waterways.
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References
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- Photo Credit oily water image by fherieb. from Fotolia.com
