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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Write an essay on the following Overfishing is considered the greatest threat to marine ecosystems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

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Task: Write an essay on the following topic:"Overfishing is considered the greatest threat to marine ecosystems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?"

Model Answer:

Overfishing, the phenomenon of catching fish at a rate higher than the population can replace itself, has indeed emerged as one of the most significant threats to marine ecosystems. This essay will discuss the reasons behind this claim and explore the various factors that contribute to the depletion of marine life. While it is true that overfishing poses a serious risk to marine biodiversity, it is essential to consider other human activities that also impact these ecosystems, such as pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction. Thus, while overfishing is undoubtedly a major issue, attributing it as the sole or even greatest threat to marine ecosystems may not be entirely accurate.

To begin with, overfishing leads to the reduction in fish population, which disrupts the balance of marine food chains. As predator species decline in number due to excessive fishing, their prey species are left unchecked, leading to an imbalance that can have ripple effects throughout the entire ecosystem. Additionally, bycatch – non-targeted species that are accidentally captured during commercial fishing operations – contributes significantly to the depletion of marine life.

However, it is crucial to recognize that overfishing is not the sole factor threatening marine ecosystems. For instance, plastic pollution has become a significant problem in recent years, with an estimated 8 million tons of plastic entering our oceans annually. This waste not only endangers marine species through ingestion and entanglement but also introduces toxic chemicals into the food chain. Moreover, habitat destruction – such as coastal development, dredging, and bottom trawling – can severely impact marine biodiversity by altering natural habitats and disrupting breeding grounds.

Furthermore, climate change is another critical factor affecting marine ecosystems. Rising ocean temperatures lead to coral bleaching, a phenomenon in which stressed corals expel the symbiotic algae living within their tissues. This process can result in mass coral deaths and the subsequent loss of habitat for countless marine species. Additionally, climate change-induced extreme weather events, such as storms and hurricanes, can cause significant damage to marine ecosystems by eroding coastlines, disrupting food chains, and altering migration patterns.

In conclusion, while overfishing undoubtedly poses a substantial threat to marine ecosystems, it is essential to consider the various factors that contribute to their decline. By addressing these issues collectively – through sustainable fishing practices, reducing plastic pollution, mitigating climate change impacts, and preserving natural habitats – we can better safeguard our oceans and ensure their health for future generations.

Score: Band 9 (Expert User)

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