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The oil penetrates into the structure of the plumage of birds and animals, reducing its insulating ability, thus making the birds more vulnerable to temperature fluctuations and much less buoyant in the water. It also impairs or disables birds' flight abilities to forage and escape from predators. As they attempt to preen, birds typically ingest oil that covers their feathers, causing kidney damage, altered liver function, and digestive tract irritation. This and the limited foraging ability quickly causes dehydration and metabolic imbalances. Hormonal balance alteration including changes in luteinizing protein can also result in some birds exposed to petroleum.[3]

Most birds affected by an oil spill die unless there is human intervention.[4][5] Some studies have suggested that, even after cleaning, less than 1% of oil soaked birds survive.[6] Marine mammals exposed to oil spills are affected in similar ways as seabirds. Oil coats the fur of Sea otters and seals, reducing its insulation abilities and leading to body temperature fluctuations and hypothermia. Ingestion of the oil causes dehydration and impaired digestions. Because oil floats on top of water, less sunlight penetrates into the water, limiting the photosynthesis of marine plants and phytoplankton. This, as well as decreasing the fauna populations, affects the food chain in the ecosystem.[citation needed] There are three kinds of oil-consuming bacteria. Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and acid-producing bacteria are anaerobic, while general aerobic bacteria (GAB) are aerobic. These bacteria occur naturally and will act to remove oil from an ecosystem, and their biomass will tend to replace other populations in the food chain. Oil may also cause the death of an animal by entering the animal's lungs or liver. The animal will then be poisoned by the oil. Oil also can kill an animal by blinding it. The animal will not be able to see and be aware of their predators. If they are not aware of other animals, they may be eaten.

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Related Questions

What can crude oil products cause?

It can cause pollution


How can crude oil cause problems?

Crude oil can cause environmental problems when spilled, as it can harm wildlife and ecosystems. It can also contribute to air and water pollution when burned or leaked into water sources. Additionally, the extraction and transportation of crude oil can have negative impacts on local communities and indigenous populations.


How does crude oil hurt us?

Crude oil can be harmful to humans in various ways. When spilled into the environment, it can contaminate water sources, harm wildlife, and disrupt ecosystems. Inhaling crude oil fumes can also cause respiratory issues and other health problems. Additionally, the combustion of crude oil releases pollutants into the air, contributing to air pollution and climate change.


Why is crude oil in the Earth's crust a problem?

We can not get to the Crude oil easy, and you normaly find it under the sea, and as you are digging under the sea and the oil spills it will cause pollution and kill the sea creatures. -Bethany Wilden-


Which is more toxic on land crude oil or refined?

Will Crude Oil on my land cause it to be too toxic to live on it?


Does crude oil burn?

Yes, crude oil can burn. When ignited, it releases energy in the form of heat and light through combustion. However, burning crude oil releases pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and climate change.


What is the biggest cause of marine pollution?

Oil spills is the biggest cause of marine pollution. An oil spill can devastate and area of the ocean. Factories are another major cause of marine pollution.


Why crude oil is bad?

Crude oil is considered bad for several reasons: It is a non-renewable resource, meaning it will eventually run out. Its extraction and consumption contribute to air and water pollution. The burning of crude oil releases greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.


Why does crude oil cause problems to the earth's crust?

Crude oil can cause problems to the earth's crust when it leaks or spills onto the surface, contaminating soil and water sources. It can also contribute to air pollution when it is burned, releasing harmful greenhouse gases. Additionally, the extraction of crude oil can disrupt ecosystems and habitats, leading to long-term environmental damage.


What problems has crude oil caused?

Crude oil has caused environmental problems such as oil spills which can harm ecosystems and marine life, air pollution from oil extraction and burning, and water pollution from oil leaking into water sources. It has also contributed to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions.


What are some examples of pollution?

There are a number of environmental pollution sources. A few are crude oil, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ammonia, phosphorous, and sulfur.


What are the negatives of Crude Oil?

Some negatives of crude oil include its contribution to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions when burned, its potential for environmental disasters such as oil spills, and its reliance on a finite resource that can lead to geopolitical conflicts.