Conserving marine biodiversity.

Oceans regulate the climate, bind CO₂, and are an important food source for humans. Every other breath we take contains oxygen from the sea. In order for our oceans to continue fulfilling these functions vital for human existence, their habitats must remain intact. In turn, these habitats depend on marine biodiversity, not only of different species but also of genetic variants within those species, and of ecosystems themselves.

One thing is certain: marine ecosystems are changing, and mostly due to human impact. According to a recent study, for example, only 13 percent of the oceans can still be categorized as wilderness. We explore the role that changes in marine biodiversity have on the functions of ecosystems. On this basis, we develop concepts for the protection and sustainable management of those ecosystems.

(Header: Pixabay/Marcelo Kato)