Many kinds of algae that acted like the underbrush of a terrestrial forest disappeared as well when the “trees” of the ecosystem died out. The researchers have compiled evidence of the loss of otters, the increase of urchins, and the destruction of kelp forests.
Why do Researchers Care About Otters?
The U.S. Geological Survey conducts a census of sea otters every year, with scientists and their colleagues spreading out across 400 miles of California’s coast to do so. These estimates are crucial for determining whether or not the population is recovering from its current predicament.
Who First Spotted The Sea Otter?
Vitus Bering Due to the marine fur trade in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, sea otter populations were reduced to under 2,000 by the time of Vitus Bering’s modern discovery of sea otters in the North Pacific Ocean in the mid 1700s.
Jan 21 2019
What did Researchers Want to Learn From Their Examination of Sea Otters?
Scientists at the Santa Cruz Field Station of the USGS Western Ecological Research Center (WERC) study sea otters to learn more about the population biology of this small marine mammal and its importance to the nearshore marine community.
Which Role Do Fertilisers Play in the Plight of The Sea Otter?
Crucial fish habitat, seagrass meadows, have been disappearing around the world due to fertiliser runoff. Scientists believe that sea otters are responsible for the thriving of these meadows in Elkhorn Slough, a large estuary in Monterey Bay. As the algae grows, it blocks off the sunlight that seagrass needs to thrive.
Can you Tell Me Three Cool Things About Sea Otters?
- Sea Otter Awareness Week: 12 Little-Known Facts
- Put aside any prior knowledge you may have had of otter types…
- Some of the otters’ relatives are quite fascinating.
- The state of Alaska is home to the greatest number of sea otters.
- The endangered sea otter is protected by both U.S. and international law.
- Each day, sea otters consume 25% of their body weight in food.
