BioBites: Ocean Life and Environmental Change

The ocean covers 70% of the Earth and is home to many animals. But, today, human activities are putting the ocean in danger. Microplastics, ocean acidification, and climate change are the problems that threaten marine life.

Microplastics

Wasted plastics in the ocean break down into tiny pieces called microplastics. Small sea creatures like krill often mistake it for food. As microplastics move up the food chain, humans can end up consuming microplastics.

Ocean acidification

When the amount of Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases, the ocean becomes acidic. This makes coral and shellfish hard to build their shells. The Great Barrier Reef has suffered from severe coral bleaching in recent years.

Recent studies show that ocean cleanups, reducing use of plastics can help marine life. Scientists are also working to breed coral that can resist acidification and to build artificial reefs that help restore damaged ecosystems.

The ocean is an important resource for all living things. Environmental changes and pollution are serious threats to marine animals. However, the students can help and make a difference by doing small things like using less plastic and volunteering for ocean cleanups, we can all help protect our earth.