Impacts of Biodiversity Loss on Ocean Ecosystem Services

Summary of Selection 20

The rate of resource collapse is increasing as recovery potential, stability, water quality, and biodiversity are decreasing in our oceans. These trends are still reversible if we act quickly. As biodiversity increases, so do ecosystem productivity and stability. However, ocean issues are very complex and vast, making them hard to understand. Experiments have shown that an increase in diversity of primary producers and consumers increase productivity by 80%, and increase resource use and stability by ~30%.

In coastal ecosystems, a decrease in biodiversity led to a decrease in stability, and an increase in the likelihood of collapse, decline and extinction of other species. It also led to the decline of fisheries, nursery habitats (ex. wetlands), and filtering services. These all impact water quality, which increases algae blooms, fish kills and depletes oxygen. Also the ecosystem was more vulnerable to flooding and invasive species.

The Global Catch Database through United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization, monitors ocean activity. Their stats show that 83% of fisheries catches are from large marine ecosystems (LMEs). Yields have been greatly decreasing- possibly leading to collapse. Non-collapsed areas showed high diversity. If fisheries are closed and the area examined again after a few years, there are increases in biodiversity. This shows that it is possible for an aquatic ecosystem to recover after collapse. Also responsible fishing can begin again, as well as tourism.

There are serious consequences for decreases in diversity. The negative relationship patterns can be seen on large scale studies. We need sustainable fisheries management, pollution control, maintenance of essential habitats, and a creation of marine reserves to ensure the aquatic ecosystems are safe. This will increase productivity and reliability of goods and services. If there is no action, our food security, coastal water quality, and ecological situation will be in danger.