Scientists and conservationists in the Russian region of Kamchatka have been left in shock after they discovered that 95% of the organisms living on the sea-bed of Avacha Bay had died. It appears that the mass die-off was extremely sudden and unexpected, and the cause has not yet been ascertained.
The investigation began after many animals including, starfish, crabs, fish octopi and seals were found washed up on the area's beaches. At present, the finger is being pointed at a mass poisoning event. This is because a dark brown foam has also been seen in the sea and on the beaches, and divers have complained of eye and skin irritation after entering the waters.
Ivan Usatov, of the Kronotsky Nature Reserve and the Pacific Institute of Geography, told reporters:
"Some large fish, shrimps, and crabs have been preserved, but in very small numbers."
Alexander Korobok, an underwater photographer who has explored the region stated:
"After diving, I can confirm that this is an environmental disaster. The ecosystem has been damaged significantly, and this will have quite long-term consequences since everything in nature is interconnected."
The fear is now that as many of the smaller animals have died, the food-chain may be seriously disrupted and lead to a decline in the numbers of other species. It is also worried that if the cause of the pollution or poison is not found that further such incidents could take place, perhaps in other areas.
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Laboratories will now be examining sea samples and Russian government officials will be investigating the local area to identify any potential sources of the destruction. Some have suggested though that volcanic activity, in particular undersea volcanic activity, could be to blame for leaking out toxic chemicals. The area is home to around 100 active volcanoes.
The Kamchatka region is famed for its natural beauty and is an official UNESCO World Heritage site.
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