Question

Which of the following is the best title for the passage?

• A. Why are Fish Gender Ratios Changing so Rapidly?
• B. Dead Zones: Their Causes and Consequences
• C. A Prescription for Reversing Hypoxia Levels
• D. Dangers of Artificial Waste-water Runoff
• E. What Causes Birth Defects in Salt-water Fish?

Hint:

When choosing a title for a passage, look for the main focus and theme. Titles should reflect the most significant points discussed in the passage.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the passage.
The passage focuses on the decline of oxygen levels in the oceans, the creation of "dead zones" where oxygen levels are too low for most marine life, and the impact these conditions have on fish reproduction. The passage discusses the causes (agricultural run-off and industrial waste) and consequences (fewer eggs, altered gender ratios) of these "dead zones."

Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (A) Why are Fish Gender Ratios Changing so Rapidly?: Incorrect. While the passage discusses gender ratios, it is not the main focus of the passage, which deals more broadly with dead zones and their consequences.
- (B) Dead Zones: Their Causes and Consequences: Correct. This is the best title, as the passage addresses both the causes and the consequences of dead zones.
- (C) A Prescription for Reversing Hypoxia Levels: Incorrect. The passage does not suggest a solution to reversing hypoxia; it describes the effects of low oxygen levels.
- (D) Dangers of Artificial Waste-water Runoff: Incorrect. While waste-water runoff is mentioned, it is not the sole focus of the passage.
- (E) What Causes Birth Defects in Salt-water Fish?: Incorrect. The passage does not specifically discuss birth defects, though it does discuss reproductive issues in fish.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (B) Dead Zones: Their Causes and Consequences.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{(B) \, \text{Dead Zones: Their Causes and Consequences.}} \]