Published: September 29, 2010
A new study says tumors that have plagued green sea turtles for decades may be caused by pollution. Nitrogen-rich runoff from sewers and farms is fueling a rise in invasive seaweed that, when consumed by the reptiles, may trigger a dormant herpes virus. This virus then causes the often fatal growths on the sea turtles. The scientists don't think the nitrogen-loaded runoff causes tumors directly. Instead, there may be a chain of interactions that starts with a nitrogen-fed boom in nonnative seaweed.
The author of this article showed no bias and did not lean towards a particular side, however, it is pro environmentalist. She was just trying to inform the reader of what is causing the turtles to become endangered.
VI. Pollution
A-3. Water pollution
I think this is absolutely devastating that us humans could be causing tumors on these innocent sea turtles. It makes me so sad that so many of these poor creatures have been inflicted with this disease, and that we could be the force behind it. I agree that the author did not show any bias. It definitely was written to encourage people to be pro-environmental, but the author gave the facts without her opinion.
ReplyDeleteGOSH HUMANS!!!!! One thing we learned in APES is that you can never just affect one thing. I really believe that more people need to be educated about the effects of their actions. These tumors could possibly be prevented if humans found more environmentally friendly ways to fertilize their crops and do they daily things in their life. These turtles do not deserve to have tumors just because we humans are selfish about our needs. Remember every creature plays a role in its ecosystem, and if these turtles begin to die or become sick because of these tumors-- we might lose an important animal and its task and that will effect not just their ecosystem but eventually we humans.
ReplyDeleteStephanie Udalor