Why are coastal ecosystems so important to ocean life?
Many of our coastal waters are booming with life. Some of these ecosystems, like mangroves and sea grass forests, are nurseries for the young, tiny species that can't swim out into deep waters. Fish, invertebrates, and even baby sharks live in these shallow waters for many years before moving to other, larger, habitats as adults. Nurseries provide more food and fewer predators than many other marine habitats.
Why are predators so important in the Mangroves?
Predatory sharks play a key role in keeping the mangrove and sea grass ecosystems healthy and strong. By preying on the herbivores that live in these shallow waters, they keep the animals on the move and prevent overgrazing. They also help remove the sick and the weak animals, preventing disease and keeping the grazer population from growing too big.
How can tagging sharks protect our costal communities?
Marine biologists around the world are tagging huge numbers of marine predator and collecting information on where they go to feed. Over 4,000 tags now collect data all year-round, and with all that data put online, we can now see this "Fish Facebook" and tell where the animals are going!
This information has shown scientists that sharks spend A LOT of time along the coast. Sharks that visit these waters help keep these mangrove ecosystems growing strong, and stronger mangroves means stronger shores! These plants act as a storm break, stopping waves and hurricanes from reaching our homes on the land.
