How Oil Spills Negatively Impact Fish Population

Oil spillage is one of the most alarming issues that can occur in the natural environment. Oil spills are usually as a result of human negligence while undertaking their activities (Kukreja 2016). Spills can happen on land as well as in water bodies. Sources of oil spills that affect water bodies can vary from oil rigs to oil tankers. In the event of a spill fishes are one of many animal species that is adversely affected. The extent to which they are affected is based on the type of oil and the timing of its release (NOAA 2016). This suggests that some oil spills may be more harmful than others. To clarify by example lighter oils such as diesel due to its toxicity can almost instantly kill fishes on contact but due to its volatility it does not stay in the water very long (NOAA 2016). The heavier oil tend to be less toxic but can remain in the water for extended periods of time however it is known to smother organisms in its short stint. Apart from fishes in open waters those that are reared in controlled environments such as in aquaculture also experience the effects of oil pollution. Some actual effects on fish by oil exposure are change in heart as well as respiration rate, consumption of oiled prey, an enlarged liver and being unable to reproduce offspring. Also their eggs and larvae have a less chance of survival after exposure.

To reduce the effect of oil spills its early detection is critical to avoid any worsening of the situation. Methods that assist detection include monitoring systems that work partially as well as those that support constant surveillance at oils sources. Satellite and airborne imagery are used to give an aerial picture of the cover of an oil spill, however at night this system is not so effective. For this reason it must be used with other methods such as radar and thermal imaging that give 24 hour surveillance.

Overall both oil and fish are resources used by man. Oil is responsible for the lifestyle we live today, fuels, roads and cosmetic are all products that are derived from oil. A wider outlook would be to mention that it a significant part of the economy. Fishes are also important as they support livelihoods, contribute to biodiversity and act as a food source. However the fact is that oil is more useful in the world today than fish. This does not suggest that fish lives do not matter but it would be impractical to stop using oil altogether to prevent fish death. Fish is not the only source of food and means of employment. Therefore it can be argued that cost of fishes lost in a spill does not outweigh the opportunities oil present. It would be more practical to try and limit the chances of oil spills by using detection methods mentioned earlier and also have contingency plans in place for oil spill cleanups.

References

https://www.fws.gov/home/dhoilspill/pdfs/dhjicfwsoilimpactswildlifefactsheet.pdf

http://www.conserve-energy-future.com/effects-of-oil-spills.php

http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/oil-and-chemical-spills/oil-spills/how-oil-spills-affect-fish-and-whales.html