Issues: Oceans

The ocean is slowly revealing itself. As humans explore further and deeper beneath the waves, we're discovering an astonishing diversity of life in the ocean -- bustling coral cities, forests of kelp, pueblo villages tucked into canyon walls.

Along with the discovery of these wonders comes a dose of reality. It is clear now that human interaction with the sea -- including commercial fishing, oil drilling, runoff of pollutants and fertilizers, military testing, and coastal development -- has taken a devastating toll on ocean life.

Recently, governments and international authorities have begun efforts to repair this damage and protect the sea from future harm. These efforts could mark the beginning of a true sea change in the way humans view and treat the oceans -- not as an inexhaustible resource to be plundered, but as an integral part of the web of life that needs to be protected and sustained.

Explore these five unique ecosystems to discover the rich diversity of ocean life in U.S. waters, from west to east, north to south, in the shallows and at depth. You'll also see the impacts -- both positive and negative -- that human beings can have on the worlds beneath the waves.

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