Green Options

In a possible solution to a marine chemistry mystery that has puzzled scientists for several decades, researchers have now calculated the contribution of teleost fish (bony fish) to marine carbonate (CO3) concentrations. They estimate that such fish secrete up to 15% of the ocean’s carbonate production, through their intestines, or guts (these are conservative estimates; the more liberal estimates show up to 45%).

This is important because sea water is saturated with calcium ions (Ca+2), which must be combined with carbonates to form the shells (as in bi-valves like clams and scallops) and habitat structures (as in gastropods, like conchs, and coral communities) made of Calcium carbonate (CaCO3). CaCO3 is a “neutral” (non ionic/reactive) and stable compound (within normal ocean ph ranges), and, with its plentiful constituent ions (Ca2+ and CO3-), it is an ideal material for marine creatures to utilize in constructing their shells and skeletons.

A safari adventure to Africa to view corals? This might sound interesting to many people including eager adventurers like myself.

I have always marveled at the wonders of the sea; beautiful marine creatures that are awe-inspiring to watch. But one trip on a glass-bottom tourist boat a few months ago made me promise to go back for more, and I hadn’t found the time until now. I wanted to see the coral bed under the cool waters off the Indian Ocean coast again.

Coral reefs are among Earth’s most diverse, productive, and beautiful ecosystems, and have become exciting spots for tourist who admire water life and sports. Its now not uncommon to see tourists in glass bottomed boats being ferried to coral gardens for viewing.