What alerted researchers to a problem in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico?

Question

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Low measured oxygen levels, also known as hypoxia, have been a major problem in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This condition is caused by excessive nutrient pollution, which promotes the growth of algae and other organisms. When these organisms die, they sink to the bottom and are decomposed by bacteria, which consume oxygen in the process, leading to low dissolved oxygen levels in the water. This can be dangerous for marine life and ultimately lead to dead zones where no aquatic life can survive.

What Alerted Researchers to a Problem in the Waters of the Gulf