April 29th, 2010

Oil Spill Gulf of Mexico 2010 and Seafood Industry Concerns.  The Transocean Deepwater Horizon Platform explosion may be over, but the effects of the horrendous event may plague us for months or even years.  Thousands of barrells of oil are getting pumped in to the Gulf of Mexico each and every day as a result of the oil line rupture.

Satellite Images of the Oil Spill Gulf of Mexico

So what will the oil affect? Something that many of us love most about the Gulf Coast – their seafood.  Now, many fish and shrimp will instinctively move away from the polluted waters in an effort to keep themselves alive.  Oil on shrimp and fish would definitely be fatal.

However Oysters and other small near-inland ecosystems could be negatively impacted if the oil spill continues to spread. It’s currently about the size of the state of Rhode Island.

If the oil slick continues inland, an entire industry will be jeopardized.  Its unlikely that the state health departments will allow fisheries to sell seafood that has been contaminated, despite claims that it is safe to eat.

BP is working hard to contain the oil slick.  There are rumors that the government could set the slick on fire in an effort to burn the oil off.  In addition, even after the oil spill is contained certain areas could be prohibited from harvesting sea food.

So what does that mean? For the seafood lover in the Gulf, expect prices to rise.  Those inland who enjoy going out for some shrimp and grouper could find prices at your local restaurant increase as well.

Source:

CNN

Photo Credit: AP