IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Overfishing The Greatest Threat to Marine Ecosystems?
IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1710777184
Task 2 Topic: Overfishing: The Greatest Threat to Marine Ecosystems?
In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the decline of marine ecosystems due to overfishing. Some argue that overfishing is the most significant threat to these ecosystems, while others claim that other factors, such as habitat destruction and pollution, have an equal or even greater impact on marine life.
In your essay, discuss whether you agree with the statement that overfishing is the greatest threat to marine ecosystems. Present your argument using relevant reasons and examples. It is essential to consider both the positive and negative impacts of overfishing, as well as any alternatives that may pose a greater risk to marine life.
Model Answer:
Overfishing has become one of the most critical environmental issues in recent times. While it is true that habitat destruction and pollution also contribute significantly to the decline of marine ecosystems, this essay will argue that overfishing remains the greatest threat due to its widespread consequences and irreversible damage.
To begin with, overfishing disrupts the balance of marine food chains. When a specific species is caught at an unsustainable rate, it can lead to a decline in their population, which, in turn, affects the entire ecosystem. For example, when too many fish are removed from the ocean, the number of predators that feed on them increases, causing a ripple effect throughout the food chain. This imbalance ultimately leads to a decrease in marine biodiversity and disrupts the delicate balance required for a healthy marine ecosystem.
Moreover, overfishing also has severe economic repercussions. Many coastal communities rely heavily on the fishing industry as their primary source of income. When fish stocks are depleted due to overfishing, these communities suffer financially. For instance, in 2017, it was reported that the European Union's fisheries sector contributed €
85 billion to its economy, but overfishing could potentially threaten this significant contribution.
Furthermore, overfishing can lead to the destruction of marine habitats. As fishing fleets expand their operations to catch more fish, they often damage or destroy coral reefs and seabed ecosystems in the process. These habitats serve as essential breeding grounds and nurseries for various marine species. Once destroyed, these habitats cannot recover quickly, which further exacerbates the decline of marine biodiversity.
While other factors such as habitat destruction and pollution are undoubtedly significant threats to marine ecosystems, overfishing stands out due to its far-reaching consequences and the irreversible damage it causes. By examining the disruption of food chains, economic repercussions, and habitat destruction, it becomes clear that overfishing is indeed the most considerable threat to marine ecosystems today.
In conclusion, overfishing is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention from both governments and individuals. Implementing sustainable fishing practices and reducing demand for seafood are crucial steps towards preserving marine biodiversity and ensuring the survival of future generations.
IELTS
Scoring Standards:
- Task Response (30%): The candidate provides relevant and detailed explanations, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the topic. The essay contains well-organized paragraphs with appropriate transitions, cohesion, and coherence.
- Coherence and Cohesion (25%): The candidate's ideas are organized logically and smoothly, with clear connections between sentences and paragraphs. Transitions are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument.
- Lexical Resource (20%): The candidate demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary and uses it accurately, with a variety of sentence structures. Some less common or more specific words may be included but should not distract from the overall meaning.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%): The candidate's grammar is generally accurate and complex, with few or no errors that affect comprehension. Some grammar mistakes may still be present, but they do not detract significantly from the essay's effectiveness.
Overall
Band Score:
8.0
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