The hypoxia problem in the Gulf of Mexico is primarily caused by

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hypoxia problem in the Gulf of Mexico is primarily caused by nutrient pollution, particularly from the runoff of fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus into the Mississippi River. These nutrients stimulate the growth of algae, which when decomposed by bacteria, consume the oxygen in the water, causing hypoxic (low oxygen) conditions for marine life. Local wind circulations, thermocline levels, and El Niño events may exacerbate the problem, but do not cause the primary issue of nutrient pollution.

The Hypoxia Problem in the Gulf of Mexico Is Primarily