Oil spills can have devastating ecological effects on marine and coastal ecosystems. The oil can coat the feathers of birds, fur of mammals, and bodies of fish, leading to suffocation, reduced ability to regulate body temperature, and ingestion of toxic chemicals. Oil can also contaminate and smother plant life, such as mangroves and sea grasses, which are important habitats for many marine species. Additionally, oil spills can disrupt food chains and ecosystems, leading to long-term impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health.
