By releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, humans are changing the global climate in ways that are affecting the marine environment
Weather patterns, water temperature, sea level, ocean chemistry, currents, coastal erosion and the frequency of storms have already been observed.
Scientists are expecting them to become more severe as climate change continues. Changes to the foundations of the marine environment such as this are likely to affect marine creatures’ food supply, migration patterns, distribution, reproduction and relationships with other parts of the food web. These changes could also affect the way animals behave.
Climate change is happening now; it is ongoing and it is going to get worse before it gets better. Even in the midst of this change, we don’t know for sure what to expect.
Nevertheless, scientists conduct experiments day by day and observe how the earth’s climate and environment are changing, giving us more information about what’s happening and what to expect. This is particularly important when it comes to species that are already endangered and exposed to a multitude of threats – and sharks and rays qualify in both respects. As we gain more knowledge, we are able to make informed decisions about how to mitigate the threats and manage our behavior for the benefit of the planet – and, by extension, ourselves.
