photo credit: NOAA
By Amanda Kelley
I’m sure we’ve all heard about conservation issues like shark finning and ivory poaching. But when was the last time you read a headline about disappearing seagrass meadows or the illegal harvesting of queen conch?
The sad truth is that our cute and cuddly animal pals receive far more publicity than the leafy, gooey, exoskeleton-clad, and actually-kind-of-gross critters. Is it because we identify more with animals that have faces? Maybe. I know I’d rather hug a dolphin than a sea cucumber. But these neglected organisms are integral to the marine environment, so I’d like to convince you to think twice before yelling “Ewwww!”
They are responsible for THE most biologically diverse ecosystem on the planet
Coral reefs. You know ‘em, you love ‘em. But did you know that they are nearly four times as diverse as rainforests? Reefs are associated with scores of macrofauna (large animals like sharks and sea turtles) and more than 4,000 species of fish! These highly productive ecosystems exist all thanks to the tiny coral polyps, algae, sponges, worms, and snails that are the foundation of reef food webs. If you want to protect apex predators, start by protecting their food’s food!
They provide vital ecosystem services
Filter-feeding bivalves like oysters and plants like seagrass are critical in maintaining water quality in shallow-water areas. Both habitats act as nurseries for many marine species by providing protection and nutrients for larval fishes. One adult oyster can filter 20 to 50 gallons of water per day! Don’t believe me? Check out this filtration time-lapse:
They are commercially and economically important
Shrimp, lobsters, crabs, oysters, scallops- geez I’m making myself hungry! These animals and many other inverts account for a huge portion of the fishing industry, and I’m sure you’ve had a few on your plate before. But did you know that various species of algae are also harvested and refined to produce all sorts of every-day items like lotion and toothpaste? Thank some seaweed next time you’re moisturizing!
These are only a few examples of the many reasons we must remember to appreciate our slimy little friends. If you love blue whales, love krill, too! If you want to hug a manatee, hug some seagrass! If you want to high-five a loggerhead sea turtle, high-five a jellyfish! Okay- maybe don’t take that last one literally. But DO remember to thank the little guys!