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If you’ve ever wondered whether fish can suffocate in water, the answer is yes. Our planet's waters, from the tiniest pond to the vast expanse of the ocean, are experiencing a silent crisis: a rapid and dramatic decline in <keyword id="21181078" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="oxygen-levels" source="keywords">oxygen levels</keyword>. This "<keyword id="22526914" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="aquatic-deoxygenation" source="keywords">aquatic deoxygenation</keyword>," as scientists call it, poses a major threat not just to marine ecosystems, but to the very fabric of human society and the stability of life on Earth. An international study in Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution, involving researchers from GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, urges world leaders to recognise this oxygen loss as a new planetary boundary. <keyword id="22526915" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="planetary-boundaries" source="keywords">Planetary boundaries</keyword> are critical thresholds that, if crossed, can trigger large-scale and irreversible environmental damage. Just like we need oxygen to breathe, so do <keyword id="22526918" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="aquatic-ecosystems" source="keywords">aquatic ecosystems</keyword> — from microscopic plankton to bigger fish. The decline in <keyword id="21809938" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="dissolved-oxygen" source="keywords">dissolved oxygen</keyword> (DO) threatens the survival of countless species at all levels of the food chain. The study reveals a disturbing trend. Across all aquatic environments, from lakes and rivers to coastal waters and the open ocean, dissolved oxygen levels have dropped substantially in recent decades. <keyword id="22526916" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="oceanic-oxygen-loss" source="keywords">Oceanic oxygen loss</keyword> may seem small at 2% since 1960, but due to the ocean's vast volume, this translates to a significant loss. Even more alarming is the case of specific regions, like the midwaters off Central California, where oxygen levels have plummeted by 40% in just a few decades. The research team warns that this isn't just an environmental concern; it's an economic and social one too. Billions of people rely on healthy aquatic ecosystems for food, income from fisheries and tourism, and clean drinking water. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111566431" title="June warmest on record; every month since July 2023 breached 1.5 deg C threshold" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>The culprit behind this oxygen depletion is a combination of factors. <keyword id="19942740" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-warming" source="keywords">Global warming</keyword>, fueled by greenhouse gas emissions, raises water temperatures, decreasing the amount of oxygen water can hold. Additionally, nutrient runoff from land use changes stimulates massive <keyword id="22526917" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="algal-blooms" source="keywords">algal blooms</keyword>. These blooms, while initially appearing productive, consume vast amounts of oxygen as they decompose, creating oxygen-depleted dead zones. Dr Rose, lead author of the study from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, emphasises the urgency of addressing this issue. Adding aquatic deoxygenation to the list of planetary boundaries will focus global efforts on monitoring, research, and policy changes to protect our vital aquatic ecosystems and, in turn, human society. The root causes are global warming and nutrient runoff from land use, explains co-author Dr Andreas Oschlies of GEOMAR. Warmer water hinders oxygen exchange between deep and surface layers, and nutrient influx fuels algal blooms that deplete oxygen further. These oxygen-depleted zones aren't just lifeless wastelands; they have a ripple effect that threatens our planet's health. Microbes in these zones produce potent greenhouse gases like nitrous oxide and methane, contributing further to global warming and exacerbating the very problem they were created by. We are approaching critical thresholds, warns Professor Rose. Aquatic deoxygenation disrupts the delicate balance of Earth's climate system. Addressing the root causes, like climate change and unsustainable land practices, is crucial. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111609639" title="Groundwater temperatures could rise several notches by 2100, making it too hot to drink for millions!" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

Oxygen is disappearing from Earth’s water; this endangers marine life and human society!

8 Benefits of drinking hot water every morning

We Earthlings are all too familiar with frost. That crisp, white layer we see on cold mornings, which forms when atmospheric water vapour condenses and freezes on surfaces, is a signature characteristic of Earthly winters. But on <keyword id="47638" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mars" source="Orion">Mars</keyword>, where the atmosphere is about 100 times thinner and contains 10,000 times less water vapour than Earth, such icy phenomena are extremely unlikely. Against all odds, scientists have detected water frost at Mars' equator for the first time ever! Even more astonishing, this discovery occurred in a Martian region where frost was once thought to be an impossibility. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Space cameras peek at Martian peaks, unveil their frosty secrets" comment="subhead" text="Space cameras peek at Martian peaks, unveil their frosty secrets">Space cameras peek at Martian peaks, unveil their frosty secrets</cmsannotation> The frosty revelations come from observations of the Tharsis region on Mars, which includes some of the solar system's tallest volcanoes: Olympus Mons, Arsia Mons, Ascraeus Mons and Ceraunius Tholus. Here, deposits of transient morning frost were detected on the volcanoes' summits, regions previously assumed to be too warm for frost to form. This breakthrough began with the detection of lighter, bluish areas on the volcanoes' peaks by the Colour and Stereo Surface Imaging System (CaSSIS) on ESA’s ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO). Initially puzzling, these light patches appeared consistently only in early morning observations during Mars' cold seasons. <div type="image" title="mars volcano frost top" msid="110933695" hostid="261" sizebytes="15376" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;A bird&amp;#39;s eye view of frost on Olympus Mons.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> Further investigation confirmed that these lighter areas were indeed water frost, as the High-Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) on ESA's Mars Express also recorded these features. Yet, the origin of this phenomenon remained elusive until researchers conducted numerical simulations to replicate the microclimate of Mars' volcanoes. These simulations, similar to those used in predicting Earth’s weather but tailored for Martian conditions, revealed that the clear zones corresponded with conditions suitable for water condensation. They confirmed that these icy patches were the result of frost forming overnight under the right climatic conditions on Mars. The simulations also showed that surface temperatures on these Martian volcanoes are conducive to the existence of frozen water. However, the intense solar exposure at the equator causes the frost to dissipate rapidly each morning, explaining its transient nature. The frost layer itself is extraordinarily thin, just 10 micrometres thick, reflecting Mars' limited atmospheric water vapour. In terms of volume, the frost could cover about 60 Olympic-sized swimming pools if harvested. Though this seems substantial, it's a minuscule quantity compared to Mars’ total surface area. Nonetheless, it represents a potential resource for future astronauts, who could use it for drinking water or converting it into rocket fuel. This discovery not only enhances our understanding of Mars' current water cycle, but also offers clues about its past climate and potential habitability. By refining our knowledge of Martian weather patterns, we can better prepare for future exploration and continue unravelling the mysteries of the Red Planet. These findings were recently published in the journal Nature Geoscience and can be accessed <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01457-7">here</a>.

Scientists have found frost on Mars’ volcano peaks, enough to fill 60 Olympic-sized swimming pools!

In humanity's relentless quest to find <keyword id="21578132" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="life-beyond-Earth" source="keywords">life beyond Earth</keyword>, the key lies in discovering a world capable of hosting water. Excitingly, scientists may have pinpointed a <keyword id="46100" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="planet" source="Orion">planet</keyword> beyond our solar system that harbours vast oceans of this life-sustaining liquid! While thousands of exoplanets (worlds outside our solar system) have been identified so far, only a rare few lie within the ‘<keyword id="22426573" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Goldilocks-zone" source="keywords">Goldilocks zone</keyword>’—an area neither too hot, nor too cold, and thereby perfect to allow <keyword id="19997618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="liquid-water" source="keywords">liquid water</keyword> to exist. Among these, <keyword id="22376712" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="LHS-1140-b" source="keywords">LHS 1140 b</keyword> stands out. Since its discovery in 2017, it has been subject to extensive examination. Located 48 light years (about 450 trillion kilometres) away from Earth, LHS 1140 b is relatively nearby in astronomical terms. This <keyword id="20349430" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="exoplanet" source="keywords">exoplanet</keyword> is 1.7 times larger than Earth and boasts 5.6 times its mass. Originally, scientists classified LHS 1140 b as a "mini-Neptune," a small gas giant with an atmosphere too thick in hydrogen and helium to support life. However, recent observations from the <keyword id="19899749" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="James-Webb-Space-Telescope" source="keywords">James Webb Space Telescope</keyword> (JWST) have revealed a surprising truth: LHS 1140 b is a rocky "super-Earth," altering our understanding of its potential to support life. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The most promising ocean world candidate" comment="subhead" text="The most promising ocean world candidate">The most promising <keyword id="22426572" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="ocean-world" source="keywords">ocean world</keyword> candidate</cmsannotation> The <keyword id="20951574" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Webb-telescope" source="keywords">Webb telescope</keyword> recently achieved a breakthrough by analysing the planet's atmosphere during its transit across its star. The absence of hydrogen and helium signatures led to the conclusion that the planet is not a mini-Neptune. Instead, the planet's density suggests it houses large quantities of water, as per study co-author Martin Turbet from France's CNRS research centre. Lead study author Charles Cadieux, a PhD student at the University of Montreal, remarked that among all known temperate exoplanets, LHS 1140 b is possibly the most promising candidate for confirming liquid water on the surface of an alien world. Approximately 10 to 20 percent of the exoplanet's mass is estimated to be water. In stark contrast, Earth's oceans account for a mere 0.02 percent of its mass. The state of this water, whether liquid or ice, hinges on the planet's atmospheric composition, with gases like carbon dioxide playing a crucial role. One encouraging factor is the planet's gentle warming by its red dwarf star, which is only one-fifth the size of our Sun. This stellar relationship suggests that the exoplanet's surface temperature is likely comparable to that of Earth and Mars. One hypothesis is that the planet's surface is predominantly ice, but with a substantial liquid ocean in areas most exposed to the star's heat. This ocean could span approximately 4,000 kilometres in diameter, covering about half the surface area of the Atlantic Ocean, according to models. Alternatively, the liquid water might be concealed beneath a thick ice shell, similar to the icy moons orbiting Jupiter and Saturn. Webb's instruments have detected indications of “the presence of nitrogen,” Cadieux noted, emphasising that further research is required to confirm this finding. Nitrogen, ubiquitous on Earth, is considered another potential life-supporting ingredient. The researchers aim to secure additional observation time with the Webb telescope to gather more data on LHS 1140 b. They estimate it will take at least a year to determine whether the exoplanet has an atmosphere, and an additional two to three years to detect the presence of carbon dioxide. The study was recently published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters and can be accessed <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2406.15136" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">here</a>.

Using the Webb telescope, scientists may have found the ‘best bet’ for an ocean world outside our solar system!

Thailand’s geographical proximity and affordability, along with its platter of delectable food, historical sites, pristine beaches and lively atmosphere, holds a particular appeal for Indian travellers. While tourists from India were forced to limit their travels to the Island country to a 15-day stay under a visa-on-arrival scheme until recently, the Thailand government is now extending its arms wider for us. Thailand's tourism sector has been strategically easing <keyword id="20166202" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="visa-regulations" source="keywords">visa regulations</keyword> to attract visitors from key markets like China and Russia. And now, the country has extended its visa exemption program, allowing visitors from these countries to vacation visa-free for up to 30 days until November 11, 2024. This move aims to revitalise its tourism industry, a key driver of the nation's economy. This is no doubt great news for those wanting to spend more time in the bustling city of Bangkok or immerse themselves in the rich culture and calm of its gorgeous temples. However, there are some rather glaring problems that Thailand is facing, thanks to climate change and the <keyword id="21610692" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="El-Nio-event" source="keywords">El Niño event</keyword> — that impacted India as well. <h4>Water shortage hits <keyword id="21610693" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Phi-Phi-islands" source="keywords">Phi Phi islands</keyword> </h4> For instance, the idyllic islands of Koh Phi Phi, which attract many Indians every year, are facing a real-life challenge that's anything but relaxing — a severe water shortage after a scorching heatwave gripped Asia. The private company supplying water may have to cut off service entirely, according to Wichupan Phukaoluan Srisanya, president of the Krabi Hotel Association. Island authorities are scrambling for solutions, considering bringing in water from the mainland if the dry spell persists. However, they remain optimistic that the upcoming wet season in May will bring relief, and Wichupan insists that tourists planning trips shouldn't be deterred, claiming they can manage the situation. But whispers of trouble are already reaching potential visitors. Online forums and travel reviews are buzzing with warnings from returning tourists urging others to "check if their accommodation has fresh water" before booking. Some reports even detail tap water running dry in April. While Koh Phi Phi takes centre stage, the heatwave's impact isn't isolated. <keyword id="21563893" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="koh-samui" source="keywords">Koh Samui</keyword>, another popular Thai island, has also experienced dry and scorching conditions. Although the tourism board there assures visitors haven't been affected, the island reportedly relies on water trucks, significantly increasing operational costs for hotels. <h4>Island closure due to coral bleaching </h4> A popular island in southern Thailand, <keyword id="21605630" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Pling-Island" source="keywords">Pling Island</keyword>, has been hit with a temporary closure due to extensive coral bleaching. This drastic measure by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) highlights the growing threat climate change poses to our underwater wonders. Pling Island recently witnessed intense heatwaves along with many other islands across Thailand and Asia. Due to ocean warming and acidification, corals expel the algae living within them, leaving them pale and vulnerable — a process referred to as coral bleaching. Thailand’s pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs are a major draw for visitors, generating millions in revenue. However, unregulated tourism also puts a strain on these delicate ecosystems. Thailand's proactive approach in closing Pling Island demonstrates a commitment to striking a balance between economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. While natural phenomena like El Niño contribute to warmer temperatures, scientists point to human-induced climate change as the bigger culprit. Warmer oceans are the new normal, with Asia experiencing a faster-than-average rise in temperatures. Pling Island's closure and Phi Phi’s water crisis serve as a stark reminder of that every system has a carrying capacity and we must honour it. It sends the powerful message that even paradise needs a break once in a while to ensure its future remains dazzling. While the tourism-reliant industry of Thailand could greatly benefit from more visitors, mindful travel would help secure the future of the countrymen.

You Searched For "water warming" and got 5 results

Oxygen is disappearing from Earth’s water; this endangers marine life and human society!

BI India Bureau

8 Benefits of drinking hot water every morning

BI India Bureau

Scientists have found frost on Mars’ volcano peaks, enough to fill 60 Olympic-sized swimming pools!

Kunal Kambli

Using the Webb telescope, scientists may have found the ‘best bet’ for an ocean world outside our solar system!

Kunal Kambli

Thailand is now welcoming Indians with open arms, but are its drought-hit islands really prepared for a tourism influx?

Ashmita Gupta

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