Estuaries across the United States are experiencing a decline in water quality due to warming waters, increased algal growth, and reduced oxygen levels, impacting fish populations and costing an estimated $100 million.

The study, led by researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), reveals that these environmental changes are consistent across different geographic locations within the U.S., indicating a widespread issue.

This degradation not only affects aquatic ecosystems but also has significant economic implications for coastal communities dependent on fishing and tourism.