that gave the snow its high acid content. Other scientists did not believe this theory to be correct. At the time the snow was added to the lakes and streams the pH levels changed from 5.2 to 4.6. They felt that such a marginal increase could not be attributed to natural causes. The scientists believed air pollution was the culprit. They were right. Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution in England pollution had been affecting the trees, soils, and rivers all over Europe and North America (Pearce, 1987, p.38). However, until recently the losses of fish was contained to the southernmost parts of Europe. After a constant onslaught of acidic lakes and rivers began to lose their ability to counteract their affects. Much of the alkaline elements; such as calcium and limestone; in the soil have been totally washed away. It is these lakes and rivers that we must focus on, for they will shortly become extinct if drastic measures are not taken immediately (Pearce, 1987, p.37). One interesting fact that fishermen will enjoy is the fact that they will be catching older and larger fish at this present time. This may please them now, but in the long run, these rivers and lakes will be depleted of fish and the waters will become extinct. This is because the acid present in the water causes difficulties in the fish's reproductive system. Often, fish born in acidic lakes do not survive. They are often born with birth defects such as deformed spinal columns. This is a sign that they are unable to extract enough calcium from the water in order to fully develop their bones. With virtually no young, the older, stronger fish can live and grow easily. However, the acid in the water contaminates their food. Soon they do not have food to survive and the fish resort to cannibalism (Howells, 1990, p.99). With only an older population left, there are no fish left to regenerate. Soon the lake dies. Aluminum's Role:By the late 1970's ...
