Amazing Oceans
The Earth’s oceans are extremely important climate regulators. Covering about 2/3 of Earth, they absorb 80% of the solar radiation reaching the surface. They also contain nearly 97% of the total water on Earth.

Let There Be Light
The distribution & health of underwater plants, such as seagrass, is closely tied to light availability. If the amount of light shining through the water is decreased, the size of the blades & the density of the grass thins, & eventually entire beds of sea grass may be lost. Coastal development that is not properly managed can often lead to increased turbidity (haziness or cloudiness) in the water through runoff from paved sufaces, erosion, & debris from construction sites.

How Little We Know
We have explored less than five percent of the world's oceans. We understand more about the moon than our own oceans!

Discovery Awaits
Some scientists believe that the deep ocean could contain more than ten million undiscovered species!

The Air We Breathe
Greater than 70 percent of the world's oxygen supply comes from phytoplankton in the ocean - more than is produced by the world's trees. Every two or three breaths, remember to thank the ocean!

Fruitful Fisheries
The commercial fish and shellfish harvest from TX, LA, MS, AL, and FL made up about 1/5 of the total U.S. catch in the year 2000. That year, the Gulf states (excluding Texas) produced over 40% of the U.S. recreational finfish harvest.

Mobile Bay Fish
Thirty-six (36) of the 337 fish species found in Mobile Bay are listed as "at risk."

Gulf Habitat
The Gulf of Mexico encompasses many different habitat-types -- marine areas, submerged vegetation, upland areas, and coastal wetlands. The Gulf's coastal wetlands cover more than 5 million acres, & provide important habitat for up to 75% of migrating waterfowl that cross the U.S.!

Mangrove Forests
Mangroves, found in FL & particularly in the Florida Keys, are trees that grow in saltwater and in areas frequently flooded by saltwater. They provide protected habitat, breeding grounds, & nursery areas for many marine animals. Mangroves also provide vital protection for shoreline communities from wind, waves & erosion, & absorb significant amounts of energy during storms.

Pest Control
Did you know that 1040 tons of pesticides from coastal agriculture are found in the Gulf annually? When it rains, pesticides can be carried away from agricultural areas, into ditches and storm drains, and directly into our waterways.

Tip:
Before spraying a pesticide, make sure to properly identify the pest you are treating and choose the appropriate treatment. In some cases, there may be a pesticide-free option for controlling pests. Never spray pesticides when there is rain in the forecast.