Marine Biodiversity 101 - University of Waikato (Tauranga Campus)

Through attending engaging lectures at the University of Waikato under the guidance of Dr. Rebecca Lawton I have been captivated by the scale of marine ecosystems. We've discussed topics covering everything from the expansiveness of oceans to the challenges posed by invasive non-native species, overfishing and climate change.

The Vastness of Oceanic Realms The oceans span around 71% of Earths surface area holding a 1.34 billion kilometers of water. Additionally, oceans play a role in supporting life on Earth by generating half of the worlds oxygen through processes like photosynthesis.

Threats from Ocean Acidification One concern impacting environments is ocean acidification, a result of increasing carbon dioxide emissions worldwide. Since the era of industrialisation there has been a decrease, in the oceans pH level dropping from 8.2 to 8.1 which reflects a 25% rise in acidity. This acidification trend is expected to intensify across all climate scenarios bringing drastic impacts on our oceans

The acidification of the ocean impacts aspects of marine creatures functioning including their photosynthesis and calcification rates. It also disturbs metabolic processes and disrupts chemical signaling and interferes with the development of embryos and larvae. These consequences can move through ecosystems causing shifts in species distributions and posing a threat to biodiversity.

Invasive Species The arrival of species presents a challenge to marine biodiversity. Invasive species can compete aggressively with native species and disrupt food chains and transform habitats. Factors like climate change and increased activities contribute to the spread of invasive species heightening their impact on marine environments.

New Zealand has seen a recent huge increase in non-native invasive species. With 214 non-native species now established in its waters and an additional 49 new species identified between 2010 and 2017, New Zealand grapples with ongoing difficulties in managing invasive species while safeguarding indigenous biodiversity.

Challenges to Marine Biodiversity Actions such as fishing, pollution and destruction of habitats present significant risks to marine biodiversity. Overfishing has caused many species to become ecologically extinct with predatory fish populations shrinking to 10% of their historical levels. Climate change worsens these challenges by causing bleaching, habitat destruction and changes in where species live.

Invasive species introduced through activities like ballast water release and biofouling make it difficult to protect biodiversity. From clubbed sea squirts affecting mussel populations to paddle crabs disrupting ecosystems these invaders create a complex threat for ocean environments. By conducting research, educating others and working together we aim to safeguard biodiversity of our oceans for the benefit of upcoming generations. As caretakers of the sea,(Kaitiakitanga)it falls on us to guarantee that the ocean environment continues to flourish as an lively ecosystem.