Adriatic Sea Fossils Reveal Alarming Decline in Marine Biodiversity

New study shows human activity has drastically simplified species interactions and ecosystems since the mid-20th century.

Researchers found a significant decline in predator-prey interactions in the Adriatic Sea, evidenced by fossil records.
The common corbulid clam has thrived in the degraded environment, outcompeting other species due to its ability to withstand low oxygen levels.
Human activities like industrialization, fishing, and nutrient runoff have led to a collapse in marine biodiversity.
Eutrophication caused by excess nutrients has suffocated many marine organisms, further destabilizing the ecosystem.
Efforts are being made to reduce pollution in Italy's rivers, but restoration will become increasingly difficult the longer it is delayed.