TED Radio Hour Listen Again: An SOS From The Ocean
Dec 31, 2021
Join marine biologists Asha DeVos, Ayanna Elizabeth Johnson, Alistair Harris, and legendary oceanographer Sylvia Earle as they dive into the urgent need for ocean conservation. Asha unveils the ecological significance of whale feces, while Ayanna pushes for sustainable seafood choices. Alistair discusses successful community-led conservation in Madagascar, emphasizing local traditions. Sylvia shares her groundbreaking adventures and battle for ocean protection. Together, they highlight the vital relationship between humans and the ocean, urging collective action to preserve our seas.
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Whale Poop Eureka Moment
- Asha DeVos had a Eureka moment observing blue whales and their bright red poop.
- Whale poop is rich in nutrients and vital for the marine ecosystem.
Whale Importance
- Whale poop fertilizes the ocean surface, supporting phytoplankton growth.
- Dead whales create "whale falls," providing food and transporting carbon to the deep ocean.
Human Impact on Oceans
- Two hundred years ago, ocean ecosystems thrived with abundant whales.
- Human activities like whaling disrupted this balance, impacting interconnected marine life.