Although the word “tropical” initial positive feelings can cause, tropicalization is not nearly so tempting.
The Mediterranean Sea experiences a fast temperature rise, which has led to a significant shift in the surrounding ecosystem, scientists have observed.
What happens?
According to France24, this tropicalization is an active threat to the biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea. Species that had once colonized the nearby warmer Red Sea, swam the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean Sea, resulting in an overflow of predation by native species.
The Lionfish is a striking representation of this issue.
“About ten years ago we saw one or two. Now we are talking about 15 or 20 per dive – even more than when we go to the Red Sea,” said diving instructor Murat Draman.
The multiplication of these invasive species, without natural predators, causes a noticeable disadvantage for the ecosystem.
As Draman noted: “Their population is increasing year after year,” now competes with the groups that were already there for vital means. This in turn connects to each affected species, such as a chain reaction, until it goes back to the same conclusion: natural resources and habitats must be preserved to run the ecosystem.
Why is this important?
Protecting indigenous species, both flora and fauna, is crucial for the environment and human health. In a study by Conservation International, they discovered that “well-proposed marine protected areas produce better results for people and that designed hand in hand with local communities are the most effective”, the emphasis on “important benefits for both reef biodiversity and coastal communities.”
Their scientists discovered that 27% more fish were found in high protection zones compared to open access zones. Moreover, the income percentages were 33% higher near protected marine areas. Even those who grew up in the vicinity of such areas experienced about half the chance of remaining growth, in connection with food access.
According to the Smithsonian: “Every other breath we take comes from the oxygen produced by microscopic ocean plants, and more than a billion people worldwide trust food from the ocean as their primary protein source. But these and other benefits will break down with biodiversity loss, with serious consequences.”
What is done about this?
Some countries have taken measures to combat loss of biodiversity. The United States announced its first national strategy for biodiversity of the ocean, together with the most important objectives – to keep Keystone -ineem species populations stable, to maintain human health and job security and to collect more knowledge about how the loss of biodiversity will influence the planet over time.
Apart from greater efforts to keep the ecosystem healthy, individuals can also contribute by staying aware of critical climate problems such as rapid tropicalization. Moreover, they can look at their own areas and get involved in efforts to preserve and cultivate them. From home gardening initiatives to scientific studies, people who use their voices make a difference in the future of the planet.
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