Marine Ecosystems

Marine Ecosystems

Marine ecosystems are diverse megabet communities of life within the sea. They include coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and the deep ocean. Each ecosystem provides shelter and food for countless species. Coral reefs, often called “rainforests of the sea,” support thousands of fish and invertebrates. Mangroves protect coastlines from storms and provide nurseries for young fish. Seagrass beds produce oxygen and stabilize the seabed. Even the dark, deep sea is home to unique creatures adapted to extreme pressure and no light. Protecting these ecosystems is essential to keeping the ocean healthy and balanced for all life.