Marine conservation

Marine conservation‏‎ is the protection and preservation of ecosystems in oceans and seas. It focuses on limiting human-caused damage to marine ecosystems, and on restoring damaged marine environments. Marine conservation also includes the establishment and management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

Overview[edit]

Marine conservation is driven by the manifested negative effects being seen in our environment such as species loss, habitat degradation and changes in ecosystem functions. The ocean covers over 70% of the planet and supports a high diversity of species and ecosystems. However, human activities are causing significant threats to marine life and ecosystems.

Threats to Marine Life[edit]

The main threats to marine life include overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and invasive species. These threats are causing a rapid decline in the health and productivity of the world's oceans.

Overfishing[edit]

Overfishing is the removal of a species of fish from a body of water at a rate that the species cannot replenish, resulting in those species becoming underpopulated in that area. Overfishing can lead to depletion of or extinction of fish populations.

Habitat Destruction[edit]

Habitat destruction in the ocean can occur from a variety of sources. The main causes are dredging, bottom trawling, and coastal development which can result in the destruction of marine habitats and the displacement of species.

Pollution[edit]

Pollution is a major threat to marine life. This can come in the form of plastic debris, oil spills, and chemical runoff from land.

Climate Change[edit]

Climate change is causing alterations in ocean chemistry and temperature, which can lead to coral bleaching and the loss of breeding grounds for marine fishes and mammals.

Invasive Species[edit]

Invasive species can outcompete native species and significantly alter habitats.