4.3 Marine Resources Flashcards
Carbon dioxide dissolves in water at the ocean’s surface. As warm waters move to cooler regions, they lose their heat and sink. The dissolved carbon dioxide remains trapped in the ocean depths for millennia.
Dissolution
Many marine creatures, such as species of coral, mollusks, and phytoplankton, build shells. They make these shells through a chemical process that uses carbon dioxide dissolved in seawater. When these animals die they sink to the bottom of the ocean. Geological processes convert this sediment into carbonate rocks and hydrocarbon fuels.
Calcification
Phytoplankton on the ocean’s surface remove carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. They convert the carbon dioxide into organic matter, which passes up the food chain as other organisms feed on them. Excreted waste and dead organisms eventually fall to the bottom of the ocean. Decomposition releases the carbon dioxide, but it remains trapped in the deep ocean, where it may stay for thousands of years.
Photosynthesis.
Some organizations, driven by the motivation to conserve and protect marine resources and habitats, act as strong lobbying groups. They pressure governments to enact laws to protect the environment.
Advocacy
Organizations conduct scientific research, collecting and documenting data. Analysis of this documentation and data provides scientific evidence to shape future policies.
Research
Several grassroots (local) organizations constantly monitor the state of environmental conditions in their areas. They quickly report disturbances or illegalities related to conservation of marine creatures and their habitats.
Vigilance.
Along with the government, private organizations play a vital role in creating awareness of issues related to conservation. They create informative media to educate citizens on how they can contribute at an individual level to conservation efforts.
Awareness.
