And because the bacteria use oxygen in the water as they digest oil, scientists are concerned that process could cause an oxygen-depleted area underwater a "dead zone" that could choke off a variety of undersea life.

WSJ: Gauging Harm to Ecosystem Could Take Years

For instance, water pumps and waste water treatment plants rely on electricity, so when power is lost for long periods of time, reserves are depleted and bottled water must be transported into the zone, usually by truck.

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