Human Impact
Human have majorly affected the marine ecosystem of the Virgin Islands National Park. Humans exploit the ocean for food, natural resources, and recreation. All of which have had negative impacts on the ecosystem. The increase of population along the coast has increased the amount of runoff that occurs after heavy rainfalls. The run off causes heavy sedimentation along the coasts. The heavy rainfall also causes sewage plants to overflow and cause an increase of pollution levels in the bay area. This in turn, creates a toxic environment for various organisms to live in and could cause water organisms population levels to fall. Tourism has become a major part of the economy on the island. The demand for more housing and land-based accommodation causes soil erosion which increases runoff during rainfall. The coral reefs are ultimately affected in the end. As much fun as fishing is, it also has it downsides. Overfishing can cause a decline in the variation of species of fish. Last, the accumulation of debris from the beach and landfills hurt the living organisms in the ocean.
Humans have also impacted biogeochemical cycles. One in particular is the nitrogen cycle. Since the amount of pollution in the ocean is increasing in part due to humans, the fish and many other organisms are dying. Fish contain the nitrogenous waste ammonia. When they let out the ammonia it gets dissolved in the water.
Humans have also impacted biogeochemical cycles. One in particular is the nitrogen cycle. Since the amount of pollution in the ocean is increasing in part due to humans, the fish and many other organisms are dying. Fish contain the nitrogenous waste ammonia. When they let out the ammonia it gets dissolved in the water.