In addition to the exciting discoveries of previously unknown biota near hydrothermal vents, many deep-ocean organisms have evolved under relatively stable conditions. Their unique physiologies and biochemistries have not yet been explored adequately, and methods for sampling the more fragile of these species have been developed only in the past decade. Human influence on marine biota has increased dramatically, threatening the stability of coastal ecosystems.
Some species have been overharvested; others have been transported inadvertently to areas where they are not indigenous, sometimes resulting in eleterious effects on native species.
Still other species are being cultivated commercially, and aquaculture facilities along coastlines are becoming commonplace in some countries. A better understanding of the ecology of marine organisms is urgently needed to prevent irreversible damage to this living resource. This problem is compounded because many marine species harvested for commercial and recreational purposes spend a portion of their lives in coastal waters and estuaries.
Thus, local pollution can have far-reaching effects. There is concern about the ability of the United States to compete with Europe and Asia. Basic and applied research in the marine sciences and engineering is necessary to achieve and maintain a competitive position in a host of fields, including marine biotechnology, aquaculture, hydrocarbon and mineral exploration and production, maritime transportation, fisheries, treatment and disposal of waste, and freshwater extraction.
Knowledge of the ocean, especially the acoustic properties of marginal seas and coastal areas, is critical to national defense. About the Department. What is Oceanography? Diversity and Climate in Geosciences. Employment Opportunities. Seminar Schedule. Oceanography Spotlights. Contact Us. Academic Advisors. Graduate Programs.
Future Students. Careers in Oceanography. How to Apply. Visit Us. Undergraduate Students. High Impact Opportunities. Living Learning Communities. Medallion Scholars Program. Cool Geosciences Classes. Graduate Students. The other is chemical oceanography, the study of the chemical composition of seawater and how it is affected by weather, human activities, and other factors. Given the size of the ocean and the rapid advancements in technology, there is seemingly no end to what can and will be uncovered in the science of oceanography.
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You cannot download interactives. Marine ecosystems contain a diverse array of living organisms and abiotic processes. From massive marine mammals like whales to the tiny krill that form the bottom of the food chain, all life in the ocean is interconnected. While the ocean seems vast and unending, it is, in fact, finite; as the climate continues to change, we are learning more about those limits.
Explore these resources to teach students about marine organisms, their relationship with one another, and with their environment.
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