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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Question Overfishing is considered to be the greatest threat to marine ecosystems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

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Question: Overfishing is considered to be the greatest threat to marine ecosystems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Model Answer:

Overfishing has become a significant concern in recent years, as it poses a considerable threat to marine ecosystems. While it is true that overfishing can lead to the depletion of fish stocks and disrupt the balance of marine habitats, other factors such as pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction also contribute to the decline of these ecosystems. As a result, it is essential to recognize that while overfishing plays a crucial role in endangering marine ecosystems, it is not the sole factor responsible for their deterioration.

Overfishing occurs when fish populations are exploited at rates that exceed their ability to reproduce and replenish. This practice can lead to the collapse of fish stocks, which in turn disrupts the food chain within marine ecosystems. For example, if a particular species of plankivorous fish is overharvested, it can result in an increase in the number of jellyfish, as they feed on the same prey. This shift in the balance of the food chain may have cascading effects on other species and the overall health of the marine ecosystem.

However, it is important to acknowledge that overfishing is not the only threat faced by marine ecosystems. Pollution, both from land-based sources such as agricultural runoff and urban wastewater, as well as ocean-based sources like oil spills and plastic waste, can have severe impacts on marine life. Additionally, climate change has caused alterations in sea temperatures and acidity levels, which have the potential to disrupt marine ecosystems by affecting the distribution of species and the availability of food resources.

Moreover, habitat destruction is another factor that contributes to the decline of marine ecosystems. Activities such as coastal development, dredging, and bottom trawling can destroy or degrade vital habitats for marine species, such as coral reefs and seagrass beds. These habitats provide essential shelter, breeding grounds, and feeding areas for a wide range of marine organisms, and their loss can have ripple effects throughout the ecosystem.

In conclusion, while overfishing is undoubtedly a significant threat to marine ecosystems, it is crucial to consider the various factors that contribute to their decline. To effectively address this issue, a comprehensive approach that includes sustainable fishing practices, pollution control, habitat restoration, and climate change mitigation is necessary. As such, it would be more accurate to argue that overfishing is one of several threats to marine ecosystems rather than asserting that it is the sole factor responsible for their decline.

Score: Band 7.5

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