State the impact of ozone depletion on:

(a) Plants

(b) Human health

(c) Aquatic ecosystem

(a) Effects on plants:

1. Increased UV radiation weakens the plants, making them more susceptible to diseases.
2. Crops exposed to high UV levels may develop smaller leaves and show stunted growth.

(b) Effects on Human health:

1. UV radiation damages skin cells and DNA which increases the risk of mutations, thereby leading to a higher risk of skin cancers, including melanoma.
2. Prolonged UV exposure accelerates skin aging.
3. UV rays cause cataracts and may lead to blindness.

(c) Effects on aquatic ecosystem:

1. UV radiation reduces the motility and survival rates of phytoplanktons (or microscopic marine algae), a key component of the marine food chain.
2. Reduced phytoplankton populations can impact higher organisms, affecting aquatic biodiversity and food webs.