Ecosystems & Habitats
Ecosystem and habitat science, including how habitats form, function, change, and support ecological communities.
Sustainable Fishing: Practices, Benefits, and Seafood Choices
Sustainable fishing protects fish populations, habitats, and fishing communities through science-based catch limits, selective gear, monitoring, and effective enforcement. Learn what makes a fishery…
Hydrothermal Vents: The Mysteries of the Ocean’s Powerful Underwater Fountains
Hydrothermal vents are openings in the ocean floor where geothermally heated water is released, forming unique ecosystems deep beneath the Earth’s surface.
How Do Ocean Trenches Form? Learn the Secrets of the Deep Sea
Oceanic trenches are distinctive geological formations that underscore the dynamic nature of the Earth’s crust.
Exploring the Mysterious Depths of the Hadal Zone
The hadal zone represents the deepest region of the ocean, extending from 6,000 to 11,000 meters. Discover the extreme conditions and life in these…
What Is Critical Habitat? Definition, Rules, and Examples
Critical habitat is a legal designation under the U.S. Endangered Species Act for areas essential to conserving a listed species. Learn how designations work,…