Saltwater Fish: In the ocean, fish are surrounded by a salt concentration higher than what they have in their bodies. To avoid dehydration, saltwater fish actively drink saltwater. Their bodies are designed to expel the excess salt through their gills and kidneys, allowing them to maintain a healthy fluid balance.

Freshwater Fish: In freshwater, the situation is reversed. Freshwater fish live in an environment where the concentration of salt outside their bodies is lower than inside. Instead of drinking, they absorb water through their skin and gills. Their kidneys constantly work to remove the excess water so they don’t become ‘overhydrated.’

The Moral of the Story

‍This simple but intriguing difference reminds us of an important fact: whether fish live in freshwater or saltwater, they depend on the surrounding water being clean. Unlike humans, fish and other aquatic organisms cannot purify or boil their water. They have to rely on the water that nature provides them. Pollution in water ecosystems means these animals cannot avoid harmful substances—they depend entirely on a healthy water environment to thrive.

And Here’s the Catch

‍Many of us eat fish and other aquatic life regularly. So, by protecting their environment, we are also protecting our own health. When we ensure cleaner water, we’re not only helping these creatures thrive but also reducing the risks of consuming harmful pollutants ourselves. Next time you pass by a pond or gaze over the beautiful sea, remember that by caring for nature, we’re ultimately caring for ourselves as well.

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