Dead zones are formed when rivers that empty into oceans carry excess phosphorus and nitrate runoff. These dead zones are caused by

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Dead zones are caused by an excess of nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, which leads to the growth of algae, creating algal blooms. As the algae die and decompose, it consumes oxygen in the water, creating hypoxic or anoxic conditions that cannot support most marine life. Therefore, algal blooms are the primary cause of dead zones.

Dead Zones Are Formed When Rivers That Empty into Oceans