An ichthyologist models fish biomass in a reef ecosystem. Starting with 8,000 kg of fish, the biomass increases by 12% annually due to conservation, but 3% is lost each year due to environmental stress. What is the biomass after two years?

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:22:13 +0000

**An ichthyologist models fish biomass in a reef ecosystem. Starting with 8,000 kg of fish, the biomass increases by 12% annually due to conservation, but 3% is lost each year due to environmental stress. What is the biomass after two years?** Rising ocean temperatures and human impact are reshaping coral reef ecosystems worldwide. Scientists track fish populations not just as a measure of biodiversity, but as a vital indicator of reef health. One essential tool in understanding these underwater dynamics is a model that simulates fish biomass over time—based on real ecological data and carefully measured growth and loss factors. When conservation efforts ramp up, fish numbers can climb steadily. In this scenario, biomass grows by 12% each year—driven by protected zones, restoration projects, and improved environmental stability. Yet this growth is counterbalanced by losses: 3% of the total biomass diminishes annually due to stressors like warming waters, coral bleaching, and food chain disruptions. Now, what happens to the fish biomass after two years, starting from 8,000 kg?