Question

Why do you think oxygen dissolved in water is important for the survival of aquatic animals and plants.

Answer 1

1. Oxygen is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is necessary for all living things.
2. All types of life require oxygen to survive.
3. One of the most significant markers of water quality is dissolved oxygen.
4. Fish and other aquatic species depend on dissolved oxygen for their survival.
5. Since winds aerate the water, oxygen dissolves in surface water, and also, as a consequence of photosynthesis in aquatic plants, oxygen is added to the water.
6. Aquatic life is stressed when dissolved oxygen levels in water fall below 5.0 mg/l.
7. The death of aquatic animals can occur when oxygen levels drop below 1-2 mg/l for a few hours.
8. Hence, all aquatic organisms require dissolved oxygen in order to survive.