Question

Explain the effect of accumulation of solid waste on aquatic and terrestrial life.

Answer 1

(i) Ammonia seems to be an internal poison to fish as it gets into the body through the gills.
(ii) Bio-accumulation in sea-birds and marine mammals has been linked to reduced breeding success.
(iii) In aquatic ecosystems, cadmium can bio-accumulate in mussels, oysters, lobsters and fish.
(iv) Air contaminated with ozone has irritant qualities and is responsible for pulmonary changes, edema and haemorrhage in dogs, cats and rabbits.
(v) Oil is reported to coat the gills of fish which affects their respiration.