Category: Conservation

The Mediterranean Sea is considered a biodiversity hotspot and contains approximately 7% of the total global marine fish species, an unusually high diversity for a temperate sea. The question, 'Does the Mediterranean have fish?' therefore reveals a vibrant, complex aquatic ecosystem with both abundance and considerable conservation challenges.

As of 1981, international commercial trade in all sea turtle products, including oil, is banned under CITES to protect these endangered animals. Historically, the oil derived from the fatty tissues of sea turtles was used in various cosmetic and medicinal applications, but its efficacy was largely unsubstantiated.

Over half of the world's 359 turtle and tortoise species are now facing extinction, making their consumption a significant conservation and ethical issue. While some historical accounts exist, determining how many calories are in tortoise meat is virtually impossible due to its protected status, and attempting to do so carries severe legal and health risks, including deadly food poisoning.

The Gulf of Maine population of wild Atlantic salmon has declined by over 99% since the 19th century, leading to its listing as an endangered species. This dire situation is the primary reason why you can't buy wild-caught Atlantic salmon in most markets today.

Scientific consensus has overwhelmingly moved away from the idea of a perfect, static equilibrium in nature, a concept widely promoted by popular media. Understanding which of the following is not true of natural balance is crucial for appreciating the complexity and dynamism of the world around us.

The Bitterroot (Lewisia rediviva) is so important to western Montana that it is the official state flower and gave the Bitterroot Valley its name. The significance of bitterroot extends far beyond its delicate pink flowers, as it holds profound cultural, historical, and ecological importance, especially for Indigenous peoples of the region. This resilient plant has served as a vital food source, a powerful medicinal remedy, and a symbol of heritage for generations.

Ecological studies show that only about 10% of energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next, a fact that dictates the structure of all food webs and significantly influences what it means to be at the 'top'. While the term is often associated with the mightiest hunters like lions and sharks, its scientific definition is more nuanced and complex, involving the interconnected dynamics of entire ecosystems.

According to modern ecological science, the popular concept of a 'balance of nature' is a myth, as ecosystems are dynamic and in a constant state of flux rather than a fixed equilibrium. This evolving understanding forces a critical reevaluation of our relationship with the environment, prompting the question: what is a more effective and accurate paradigm for managing our planet?

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, over half of the salmon sold worldwide is sourced from aquaculture. This has led many to question whether all Atlantic salmon farmed and if wild options are still available. The answer reveals a complex landscape of conservation, endangered species listings, and modern fish farming techniques.

The sale of common snook is illegal in Florida, the U.S. state most associated with the species. This legal prohibition is the primary reason why this highly prized game fish, the snook, never appears on the menus of commercial restaurants.