Marine Habitat Destruction
by Valeria Torres
Why is it important?
The Causes of habitat loss
Bottom Trawling
Bottom Trawling is a fishing method where a substantial net is dragged along the sea destroying and taking up everything in its path, including massive amounts of creatures an habitats. It has captures 800 million pounds of marine life in 2007, increasing over the years.
Building cities and towns near water can be ideal, but there is problems that can be caused. For example runoff, it occurs when there is more water than land can absorb, the liquid flows into nearby water sources and eventually into the ocean. Sediment suspension occurs when soil is uncontrollably entering the water and blocks sunlight from getting to the plants and animals, maybe even causing them to die.
Vegetation removal
Removal of greenery can destroy and damage habitats and can introduces sediment suspension.
Dredging
Dredging is the act of removing unwanted accumulation in water pathways. It destroys and removes habitats and introduces sediments in the water.
Destructive Fishing Activity
This mainly points to over fishing, bottom trawling, ghost fishing and by-catch which is using poison and explosives. Over fishing means to catch more fish that the ocean can produce. Ghost fishing is a lost or any abandoned fishing gear that continues to trap and kill marine life.
Littering
Unwanted plastic or any type of trash that is with you should be discarded in the trash not the ecosystems. Every year massive amounts of trash are being thrown into the oceans and increasing every year, endangering countless amounts of marine life.
How can you help
Less usage of plastic products.
Instead of using plastic bags to carry your groceries, use your own bags. There are many ways to help prevent further plastic use.
Helping out the ocean
Take an our or two during the week and help clean up the shore by removing plastic bags and other trash.
Staying away from harmful marine products
Before you buy a product, be aware if the product is harmful to their habitat. For example avoid buying coral jewelry, sea turtle products, shrimp, inc.
Reduce your water/energy use
There are many simple ways you can help reduce your energy use. For example, taking shorter showers, turning off the lights when your not using that room, use high efficiency appliances, ride a bike or walk instead of using vehicles.
Inform other people about the ocean
Learn about the oceans ecosystems and share your knowledge with your loved ones.
Get involved with organizations to help the sea.
Find a local or national organization and help by donating money or giving hands-on work.