What is a significant effect of oil spills on marine life?

Oil spills have devastating effects on marine life, and the coating of feathers and fur is one of the most significant impacts. When oil is released into the ocean, it spreads quickly and may coat the bodies of seabirds and marine mammals. This layer of oil interferes with the insulating properties of their feathers and fur, inhibiting their ability to trap air and maintain body heat. As a result, animals can suffer from hypothermia, which can be fatal.

Additionally, oil can also affect buoyancy, making it difficult for birds to float and swim effectively. This can lead to drowning, as the animals struggle to stay above water. Moreover, oil spills contaminate the food sources for many marine organisms, disrupt ecosystems, and lead to further long-term ecological damage, but the immediate consequences of oil coating feathers and fur are particularly catastrophic for many species.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the direct and immediate impacts of oil spills on marine life. Increased water temperature, reduction of salinity levels, and increased fish population are not typically associated with oil spills in the same harmful and direct way that coating feathers and fur is.