2021 OCEAN OUTLOOK
Written by Hannah Peterson
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As we are all aware, the ocean needs our help. While progress has been made in some areas, there is always more that can be done. As we start off a new year, it is important to consider the current state of the ocean and what we can do to protect it.
Current threats to the ocean are primarily related to human activity and the changing environment. Land-based activities are the cause of 80% of marine pollution, which includes plastic pollution. Other pollutants include agricultural runoff, which causes oxygen depletion and kills marine species and sewage and runoff from factories and industrial plants. Oil spills are another concern. Due to the effects of climate change, we are seeing higher water temperatures, increased coral bleaching, and sea level rise, all of which alter the livability of the ocean's ecosystems. Other threats to marine species are overfishing and the introduction of invasive species such as poisonous algae and cholera.
As we address the threats to the ocean, we must consider a variety of solutions to conserve the valuable ecosystem. One idea conservationists advocate for is creating marine reserves to protect biodiversity. Other solutions include reducing destructive fishing practices and minimizing harmful technology. There is also much that can be done to address marine pollution such as refusing straws, cleaning up trash, and using preventative measures to keep runoff and sewage from reaching the ocean. We can also raise awareness and work together at Aeon for Ocean to protect all of the ocean creatures we care so much about. Hopefully 2021 is a great year for marine conservation!
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Reference: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/habitats/ocean-threats/
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SPOTLIGHT CAREER: MARINE BIOLOGIST
Written by Hannah Peterson
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Marine biologists are scientists who study ocean life. Most marine biologists work for government agencies. Others find work in zoos, aquariums, museums, and schools. They study the natural habitats, physiological characteristics, and behaviors of marine species. Marine biologists also study how humans impact marine ecosystems. Marine biologists spend much of their time doing fieldwork. Their duties include species inventories, testing and monitoring pollution exposure, water sampling, preserving specimens, and mapping marine populations.
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Reference: https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/marine-biologist
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SPOTLIGHT SPECIES: MANTA RAY
Written by Hannah Peterson
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Manta rays are the largest species of ray and can be up to 29 feet long. There are two distinct species of manta ray: reef manta rays are found along Indo-Pacific coastlines and giant oceanic manta rays live far from land in all the major oceans. Manta rays can live up to 50 years. Their greatest threat is overfishing. A fun fact is that manta rays swim with their mouths wide open to feed on krill and zooplankton. Follow us on Instagram to see more on the manta ray throughout the month!
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Reference: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/group/manta-ray/
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ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPCOMING EVENTS
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Stay tuned for any events coming up in the new year.
We are excited for a great year at Aeon for Ocean!
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Scientific Illustration Demonstration
On November 15th, we hosted a Scientific Illustration Demonstration on Facebook Live! Eve Feldman walked through the process of illustrating a loggerhead sea turtle. Head to our Facebook page to watch the recording! We raffled off an art supply kit that anyone who attended the entirety of the event was eligible to win, and Sarayu was the lucky winner!
Design Your Own ROV/Submarine Contest
At the end of October, we wrapped up the Design Your Own ROV/Submarine contest. Winners were Akshay, Sarayu, and Ishika. Prizes included a 3D shark puzzle, a toy submarine, and the Blue Lagoon Strategy Game. Thanks to everyone who entered and congrats to our winners!
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MEET THE NEW MEMBERS OF OUR POD
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Since our last newsletter in May, we have added eight new members to our team. We are all excited about a new year working with Aeon for Ocean.
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Jaqueline Kristofik
Program Manager
Troy Engel
Director of Operations
Alan Whitehead
Board Member
Molly Adolph
Operations Manager |
Eve Feldman
Illustration Lead
Mia Norrish
Graphic Designer
Caleb Walker
Technology Associate (Web Developer)
Hannah Peterson
Publishing Manager
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KRILL2WHALE PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
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What is Krill2Whale?
Krill2Whale (K2W) is a program focused on educating kids about marine life and oceans so they can then share that information with other children in both casual and formal presentation settings. The goal is to spread awareness on the importance of the marine ecosystem and to increase involvement in activities to save our oceans.
How does K2W benefit kids?
Not only will new K2W Ambassadors join a group of inspiring kids, make new friends, and learn about marine life, but they will also learn valuable life skills like public speaking, leadership, and planning. The K2W Ambassadors will be given the opportunity to present a 30-45 minute interactive presentation at schools and libraries and help organize events for their communities.
How can my child join?
Head to aeonforocean.org/krill2whale for more information. If you'd like to join, click “Join me” in the “Become a K2W Ambassador” section and complete the form. If you have further questions about the program, please send an email to info@aeonforocean.org.
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