At Bocas del Toro in Panama, I had the excellent opportunity to
explore coral reefs for an entire week. From assisting with a research project
to free snorkeling, my time in Bocas was incredible. Following my visit, I have
a newfound appreciation for marine conservation and biodiversity. And
considering oceans cover more than half our globe, understanding of these
aquatic habitats is essential. This is because we depend on our oceans more
than we may admit. From deflecting a significant amount of the sun’s light
energy to structuring some beautiful ecosystems, oceans impact our life more
than we know.
This message
was personally driven home while observing a four-foot long stingray that had
been butchered for meat. Washed up on the shoreline, I appreciated just how
majestic this sea-faring creature was, despite the jagged cuts that adorned
either side of its back. This awe was also met with a particular kind of disappointment
that I’ve rarely felt in life. This example of reef disruption still stands out
among my other amazing experiences at Bocas, but in a way, I am appreciative of
it; the image of the butchered stingray is a testament to the importance of
ecological education.
Those who are
passionate about biodiversity can have no better impact than educating their
communities. For example, educational programs and responsible reef expeditions
could foster sincere appreciation for this gorgeously complex ecosystem. Those
who fish in Bocas, or anywhere for that matter, may think twice about
butchering large rare reef species if they appreciate their role in reef
dynamics. And if we, as ecologists and conservationists, can educate others
about the interconnectedness of ecosystems, we’ll have established a protection
that could improve how our species interacts with our natural surroundings.
Bryce Pepin
Tufts University
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