Warming Waters Deplete Gulf of Oxygen, Suffocating Thousands of Fish

Thousands of fish washed ashore along the Texas Gulf Coast due to low oxygen levels caused by warm water temperatures according to multiple news reports.
The mass death event, known as a "fish kill," affected mostly Gulf menhaden and was caused by still water, cloudy skies, and climbing water temperatures which reduced oxygen levels.
Park officials warned visitors to avoid contact with the water and dead fish due to health hazards like bacteria and sharp fins.
While common in the summer, the frequency and severity of fish kills may increase as ocean temperatures continue rising due to climate change according to scientists.
The dead and decomposing fish could significantly impact the local marine environment and economy.