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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Write an essay on the following Overfishing is one of the greatest threats to marine ecosystems.

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Task: Write an essay on the following topic:"Overfishing is one of the greatest threats to marine ecosystems."

Model Answer:

Overfishing has undoubtedly emerged as a significant threat to marine ecosystems worldwide. As human population growth and increasing demand for seafood continue to rise, the exploitation of marine resources becomes unsustainable. This essay will explore the various ways in which overfishing poses a threat to marine ecosystems and assess whether it is indeed the greatest threat they face.

To begin with, overfishing disrupts the natural balance of marine food chains. When fish populations are depleted, their predators, such as seabirds and marine mammals, suffer from the lack of available prey. Consequently, this imbalance in the food chain can lead to a decline in the number of species within an ecosystem and, in extreme cases, even extinction. For instance, overfishing has been linked to the decline in the population of certain species of sharks, which are apex predators in marine ecosystems.

Moreover, the practice of overfishing also results in the bycatch of non-targeted species. This collateral damage occurs when fishing nets and traps capture unintended species, such as sea turtles, dolphins, and seabirds. The bycatch not only leads to the unnecessary loss of marine life but can also have a significant impact on the affected species' populations and their overall ecological roles within the ecosystem. For example, the decline in sea turtle populations due to bycatch has resulted in changes to the algae-sea grass balance, which impacts water quality and the habitats of various marine organisms.

Additionally, overfishing can have a domino effect on the entire marine ecosystem. When fish populations are depleted, it creates an imbalance in the food chain, affecting not only the predators but also the primary producers such as phytoplankton and algae. This chain reaction can lead to a reduction in oxygen production in the water, which in turn affects other marine life and, ultimately, the entire ecosystem. For instance, the overexploitation of fish stocks has been linked to the decline in seagrass beds and mangroves, which provide essential habitats for various species.

While overfishing is undeniably a significant threat to marine ecosystems, it is worth noting that other factors such as pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change also contribute to their degradation. Nonetheless, addressing the issue of overfishing remains crucial in order to preserve marine biodiversity and maintain the ecological balance within these ecosystems.

In conclusion, overfishing presents a substantial threat to marine ecosystems, disrupting food chains, increasing bycatch, and causing imbalances throughout the entire ecosystem. While it is essential to recognize that other factors also contribute to the decline of marine biodiversity, tackling overfishing should remain a priority in order to protect these vital environments and ensure their long-term survival.

Score: Band 9

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