The ocean covers more than 70 percent of our planet’s surface, yet we have explored less than 20 percent of it. What lies beneath the waves is a staggering tapestry of life — from microscopic phytoplankton that produce half of Earth’s oxygen, to the blue whale, the largest animal ever to have lived. Marine biodiversity is not just fascinating —…
Category: Ocean Ecosystems & Biodiversity
Exploring marine biodiversity, ecosystem dynamics, and the vital role healthy oceans play in our planet’s wellbeing.
Kelp Forests: The Ocean’s Towering Giants
Rising from the seafloor like underwater skyscrapers, kelp forests are among the most productive and dynamic ecosystems on Earth. Found in cool, nutrient-rich coastal waters around the world — including along the southern coasts of Australia — these towering algal forests support extraordinary biodiversity and provide vital services to both marine life and human communities. What Is Kelp? Kelp is…
Seagrass Meadows: The Unsung Heroes of Coastal Ecosystems
They may not have the visual drama of coral reefs or the towering grandeur of kelp forests, but seagrass meadows are among the most ecologically and economically important habitats in the ocean. Found in shallow coastal waters on every continent except Antarctica, these flowering plants — true plants, not algae — provide a suite of ecosystem services that rival any…