Humans have a vital relationship with the ocean. Stretching over 70% of the planet, the oceans provide more than fishing, recreation and transportation; they provide a range of benefits that can’t be easily replaced. The marine ecosystem is an important part of the human species’ health and well-being. When you consider the importance of the vast bodies of water surrounding our land-based existence, you may wonder how is climate change affecting our oceans?
With its almost 850 miles of coastline, California residents shouldn’t overlook the role the Pacific Ocean plays in their lives. Air pollution, sand erosion and rising sea levels typically receive the most attention when it comes to climate change. While these issues negatively affect beaches along the coastline, there are also serious issues taking place beneath the ocean’s surface.
Oceans Produce the Majority of Earth’s Oxygen
The oceans are responsible for producing breathable oxygen. They also help absorb the unbreathable carbon dioxide we exhale. Most individuals believe that oxygen comes from the rainforests, but they only supply about 30% of breathable air. The majority of the oxygen used by humans and land animals is generated by the sea, which would be a good response if you were asked how is human life dependent on oceans?
Because of its significance as an oxygen source, scientists use satellites to continuously monitor, measure and record data related to the ocean’s temperature. Fluctuations could affect the amount of oxygen produced. If climate change causes the water surface to become too warm, it could disrupt the marine ecological systems that generate oxygen.
Oxygen Production Relies on Plankton
More than half of the oxygen found in the earth’s atmosphere comes from tiny aquatic life forms called plankton. The name stems from “planktos,” which means drifter in Greek. It’s an appropriate name because these life forms flow with the ocean’s tides and currents. Plankton is a broad grouping that includes bacteria, plants and some jellyfish.
When various plankton species flourish in the water, oxygen is produced for humans through photosynthesis. The various species of plankton convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into sugar, which is a chemical form of energy. The waste product created by this process is the oxygen required by land animals and humans.
Plankton and Marine Plant Life Affect the Entire Ecosystem
While plankton move with the currents, they supply both food and oxygen to fish and marine mammals such as gray whales. Plankton’s ability to carry out photosynthesis could, however, change depending on extreme weather conditions or rising ocean temperatures.
Other vital marine plants found off the shores of Southern California include coral reefs, giant kelp and eelgrass. Eelgrass, however, requires an abundance of daylight to create oxygen constantly. Coral reefs are typically found in the shallow areas of the sea. Like kelp, coral reefs harvest energy from the sun to produce oxygen.
Tide Pools Form a Highly Interactive Ecosystem
The ocean’s tide pools San Diego residents have come to know are highly involved ecosystems. A wide and varied range of animal and sea life can be seen when the tide recedes. The tide pools also contribute to The Golden State’s seafood economy. The many forms of life that can be found when the tides are at their lowest provides a fascinating opportunity for taking in the wonder of nature.
Leave a Reply