Commentry - (2024) Volume 10, Issue 12
Aquatic Systems: The Foundation of Life and Biodiversity
Ren Kato*
Department of Aquatic Engineering, Hokkaido University, Japan
*Correspondence:
Ren Kato,
Department of Aquatic Engineering, Hokkaido University,
Japan,
Email:
Received: Dec 02, 2024, Manuscript No. JAEFR-24-154144;
Editor assigned: Dec 04, 2024, Pre QC No. JAEFR-24-154144 (PQ);
Reviewed: Dec 18, 2024, QC No. JAEFR-24-154144;
Revised: Dec 23, 2024, Manuscript No. JAEFR-24-154144 (R);
Published:
Dec 30, 2024, DOI: 10.3153/JAEFR.10.12.107
Description
Aquatic systems, which include freshwater and marine ecosystems, are among the most vital components of our planet. These ecosystems support an incredible diversity of life, regulate climate patterns, and provide essential resources for both humans and wildlife. From rivers and lakes to oceans and wetlands, aquatic systems play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the Earthâ??s environment. This article explores the importance, types, and challenges facing aquatic systems, aswell as the steps needed to protect them. Aquatic systems are essential for the survival of life on Earth. They provide habitat and food for a wide range of species, from microscopic plankton to large marine mammals. Freshwater ecosystems, such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands, support about 6% of all species on Earth, despite covering only 1% of the planet's surface. These ecosystems are vital for biodiversity, acting as breeding grounds, migration corridors, and sources of fresh water for both humans and animals. Marine ecosystems, which cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface, are equally important. Oceans regulate the global climate by storing heat and carbon dioxide, moderating temperature fluctuations. The oceans also produce more than half of the world's oxygen through the photosynthetic activity of phytoplankton. Coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests are some of the most productive marine environments, supporting a vast array of species and protecting coastlines from erosion. Aquatic systems are also crucial for human societies. Freshwater bodies provide drinking water, irrigation for agriculture, and are central to transportation and commerce. Marine ecosystems support fishing industries and provide resources for food, pharmaceuticals, and even recreational activities. Aquatic systems are also a source of energy, with hydropower and tidal energy being important renewable resources. These include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, and wetlands. Freshwater ecosystems have low salt content and are essential for supporting terrestrial life. They serve as habitats for species such as fish, amphibians, and waterfowl. Wetlands, which include marshes, swamps, and bogs, are
especially important for filtering pollutants, storing water, and supporting biodiversity. Marine ecosystems include oceans, coral reefs, estuaries, and coastal areas. Oceans are the largest of the Earth's aquatic systems, covering about 71% of the planet's surface. Coral reefs, though covering only about 0.1% of the oceanâ??s surface, are one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth, supporting around 25% of all marine species. Estuaries, where freshwater rivers meet the sea, are areas of high biological productivity, providing nursery habitats for many marine species. Coastal areas are home to vital ecosystems like mangroves and seagrass meadows, which protect shorelines from storms and erosion while supporting a wide range of marine life. Despite their importance, aquatic systems are under significant threat from human activities. Pollution is one of the biggest challenges facing aquatic ecosystems. Runoff from agriculture, industrial waste, and untreated sewage introduce harmful chemicals and nutrients into water bodies, leading to eutrophication and harmful algal blooms. These blooms deplete oxygen levels in water, suffocating fish and other aquatic organisms. Climate change is another major threat to aquatic systems. Rising temperatures affect both freshwater and marine ecosystems.Warmer waters can alter species migration patterns, disrupt breeding cycles, and increase the frequency of extreme weather events like floods and droughts.
Acknowledgement
None.
Conflict Of Interest
The author declares there is no conflict of interest in
publishing this article.
