WebMar 15, 2024 · A southern sea otter with a purple sea urchin in Monterey Bay, California. (Morgan Rector) Marine scientists have observed a massive decline of California's underwater kelp forests in recent years. Studies have linked the die-off to a host of factors including an ocean heat wave, a deadly sea star virus, and an influx of voracious kelp … WebSea otters are a keystone species, meaning their role in their environment has a greater effect than other species. As top predators, sea otters are critical to maintaining the balance of nearshore ecosystems, such as kelp …
Stockvideo HD video of a female California Sea Otters grooming …
WebSep 14, 2024 · Using data on the rate of kelp growth and its density at sites with and without otters, they found that the presence of sea otters across rocky reef habitat in the study … WebThey also serve a vital role in maintaining the health of their ecosystem. Sea otters live along the Pacific coast of North America. This region is lined with kelp forests, which are like … phil hoskins news
Returning Sea Otters are Transforming the BC Coast
WebJan 9, 2024 · In the 1970s, scientists found that kelp forests with sea otters were healthier than those without. That’s explained by a “trophic cascade”: Otters eat urchins, and urchins eat kelp. When sea otters keep urchin numbers down, kelp flourishes; and when kelp flourishes, it supports an abundant community of algae, fish, invertebrates, and ... WebSouthern sea otters can be found from San Mateo County in the north of the state to near Santa Barbara in the south. The species is considered to be endangered considering the California population has a limited range and is close to human activity. Click here to sign up for our newsletters. Web1) A community is composed of A) potentially interacting populations of different kinds of organisms. B) one species of organism living in a specific environment on Earth. C) living organisms and their nonliving environment. D) the factors that constitute an organism's niche. potentially interacting populations of different kinds of organisms. phil hoskins resigns