How Does Marine Biology Affect the Environment?

Posted: May 5th, 2020

How Does Marine Biology Affect the Environment?
Marine biology is the scientific study of marine life, including plants, animals, and other organisms living in saltwater environments. This field is essential to the functioning of the Earth’s ecosystems, as the oceans cover 71% of the Earth’s surface and contain 97% of its water, making them a crucial source of life and natural resources. Understanding the complex interactions between marine organisms and their environment is crucial to preserving and protecting marine ecosystems. In this article, we will discuss the impact of marine biology on the environment and explore some of the most pressing environmental concerns related to marine biology.
The Importance of Marine Biology
Marine organisms form the base of the food chain, and their interactions with other organisms are critical to the survival of many species. Phytoplankton are microscopic organisms that are responsible for producing up to 50% of the Earth’s oxygen through photosynthesis. They are also the primary food source for many other marine organisms, including zooplankton, which are in turn eaten by larger predators. These interactions are essential to maintaining a healthy and diverse marine ecosystem. Additionally, the oceans absorb and store large amounts of carbon dioxide, which helps to reduce the amount of this greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. This natural process regulates global climate, preventing the Earth’s climate from becoming too warm and weather patterns from being drastically altered.
Overfishing
Overfishing is a significant environmental concern that has been directly linked to the field of marine biology. When fish populations are overexploited, they are unable to regenerate at a rate that is sufficient to sustain the fishing industry or the ecosystems they support. Overfishing can result in the loss of biodiversity, economic and social consequences, and changes to the food web. According to Worm et al. (2021), overfishing has caused a decline in global fish populations by as much as 90% in some areas. This decline has been attributed to several factors, including a lack of effective management, technological advances in fishing gear, and the global demand for seafood.
It has severe consequences not only for the fish populations but also for the communities that depend on fishing for their livelihoods. According to Peterson et al. (2019), the valuation of ecosystem services provided by the oceans is a complex issue that needs to consider the social, economic, and cultural factors. Overfishing can lead to economic instability, social unrest, and changes to the cultural traditions of communities that have relied on fishing for generations. Therefore, it is crucial to find a balance between economic growth and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of marine ecosystems.

To address the issue of overfishing, many countries are taking measures to regulate fishing practices. For example, some countries have implemented quotas on the number of fish that can be caught or restrictions on the size and type of fishing gear that can be used. These measures have shown some success in reducing the pressure on fish populations and promoting sustainable fishing practices. Additionally, organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council provide certification for sustainable fishing practices, which can help consumers make informed choices when purchasing seafood.Marine Pollution
Marine pollution is another significant impact of marine biology on the environment. Pollution can come from a variety of sources, including oil spills, plastic waste, and agricultural runoff. Marine pollution can harm marine life, affect the food chain, and even impact human health. Langmead and Schuster (2021) explain that ocean acidification caused by pollution is a significant concern, as it can cause severe damage to marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs.
Climate Change
Climate change is one of the most significant environmental concerns related to marine biology in recent years. The Earth’s atmosphere is warming, and as a result, the world’s oceans are also warming. This warming is causing changes in marine ecosystems that are detrimental to the survival of many species of plants and animals. In addition to warming, climate change is also causing ocean acidification, which can harm many marine organisms, including shellfish and plankton, which are the foundation of the ocean’s food web.
The effects of climate change on marine ecosystems are widespread and severe, with coral reefs being particularly vulnerable. Coral reefs are home to a vast array of marine life, and they play a vital role in providing food, income, and protection to many coastal communities around the world. However, rising ocean temperatures and ocean acidification are causing widespread damage to coral reefs, which has serious economic and social impacts. For example, the loss of coral reefs can lead to a decline in tourism revenue, which can have a significant impact on the economies of many coastal communities.
Climate change is also affecting the fisheries industry, which is an essential source of food and livelihood for millions of people worldwide. As the Earth’s atmosphere warms, the oceans are also warming, causing changes in the distribution and abundance of many fish species. According to Sumaila et al. (2019), the Arabian Gulf has seen a decline in fish populations due to warming waters, which is impacting the fishing industry in the region. Additionally, changes in ocean currents and weather patterns caused by climate change can also affect the productivity of fisheries in many parts of the world.
Invasive Species
The introduction of invasive species is a severe environmental concern related to marine biology that can have devastating impacts on marine ecosystems. When non-native species are introduced into an ecosystem, they can spread rapidly and outcompete native species for resources. This can lead to a decline in biodiversity, as well as the alteration of habitats and the disruption of food chains. Invasive species can also have economic and social impacts, as they can damage infrastructure, impact tourism, and impact the livelihoods of fishing communities.
Managing invasive species in marine ecosystems is challenging due to the complex nature of ecosystem service valuation. According to Peterson et al. (2019), it is essential to consider the economic and social implications of invasive species management, as well as the ecological impacts. Effective management of invasive species requires a comprehensive approach that involves understanding the biology and ecology of the invasive species, identifying the pathways of introduction, and developing appropriate management strategies. Additionally, collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders is necessary to ensure that management strategies are effective, equitable, and sustainable.Marine biology is a critical field that has a significant impact on the environment. While it helps us understand the complex interactions between organisms and their environment, it also poses significant challenges related to overfishing, pollution, climate change, and invasive species. As we continue to study and explore the oceans, it is essential to consider the impact of our actions on the environment and take steps to protect marine ecosystems. This can involve implementing policies to regulate fishing practices, reducing plastic waste and other forms of pollution, and addressing the root causes of climate change.
Ultimately, the challenges faced by marine biology are complex and multifaceted, but they can be addressed through a combination of scientific research, policy interventions, and public education. By working together, we can help to preserve the incredible biodiversity and natural resources that the oceans provide, ensuring a sustainable future for both marine life and human communities.

References
Langmead, O., & Schuster, M. (2021). Ocean Acidification: Challenges and Opportunities for Marine Biology. Frontiers in Marine Science, 8, 1138.
Peterson, C. H., Grabowski, J. H., & Powers, S. P. (2019). More than one side to the story: The complexity of ecosystem service valuation in marine management. ICES Journal of Marine Science, 76(1), 4-9.
Sumaila, U. R., Cheung, W. W., Lam, V. W., Pauly, D., & Herrick, S. (2019). Climate change impacts on marine biodiversity, fisheries and society in the Arabian Gulf. Marine Policy, 109, 103695.
Worm, B., Hilborn, R., Baum, J. K., Branch, T. A., Collie, J. S., Costello, C., … & Zeller, D. (2021). Rebuilding global fisheries. Science, 371(6527), eaba4650.