Endocrine Disruptors and Thermal Pollution

Question 1

Thermal Pollution

Answer 1

when heat released into the water produces negative effects on the organisms in that ecosystem

Question 2

How do higher temperatures affect aquatic organisms?

Answer 2

• less dissolved oxygen because hotter water retains less DO, which raises the metabolism of organisms and can cause death as competition for resources increase

Question 3

What are endocrine disruptors?

Answer 3

• chemicals that can interfere with the endocrine system of animals (hormones)

Question 4

Where do most endocrine disruptors come from?

Answer 4

• chemical compounds

Question 5

What causes thermal pollution?

Answer 5

• Geothermal vents and hot springs
• Soil erosion, deforestation, and runoff from paved areas
  (soil erosion and runoff cause water banks to become unstable, making the rivers wider and shallower, inc. water temperature)
• when industrial sources use water to cool off their engines

Question 6

Specific Effects of Endocrine Disruptors

Answer 6

• birth defects, developmental disorders, and gender imbalances in fish and other species