Happy Earth Day! At Tynemouth Aquarium, we’re excited to celebrate our incredible planet and the vital role that marine life plays in maintaining the health of our Earth. Did you know that approximately 71% of our planet’s surface is covered in water? This vast blue expanse is home to countless species that contribute to the delicate balance of life on Earth. Today, we invite you to explore with us the wonders of our marine exhibits and learn how every creature, big or small, helps sustain our Earth.
When and what is Earth Day?
Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection.
Marine ecosystems are essential for life on Earth. They produce over half of the world’s oxygen, regulate climate, support global food chains, and provide livelihoods for millions. From the smallest shrimp to the mighty sharks, each animal plays a part in maintaining the health of our oceans. Protecting these species and their habitats is crucial for our future.
Animals that maintain the health of our Earth
Dive into freshwater habitats at Mississippi River and meet the charming Red-Eared Terrapin, a species that highlights the importance of river ecosystems. By feeding on algae and aquatic insects, they help keep waterways clean and balanced, preventing overgrowth that can harm water quality.
Discover the fascinating world of Starfish in St Mary’s Island, vital keystone predators and scavengers that keep the seabed healthy and balanced. They control populations of molluscs like mussels and barnacles, preventing these species from overpopulating and damaging the reef structure.
Marvel at the bizarre and beautiful Sexy Shrimp, showcasing the diversity of tiny marine creatures that make coral reefs vibrant. Though small, they give a mighty contribution to reef health by cleaning parasites and dead tissue from fish. Their presence indicates a healthy, balanced reef environment, and they play a role in controlling microscopic algae and detritus.
Encounter the graceful Polka Dot Stingray, a giant that helps keep the ocean floor clean and healthy by feeding on molluscs, crustaceans, and small fish. Their foraging aerates the sediment, which promotes nutrient cycling and helps prevent the buildup of organic waste. Find these creatures at River Giants.
Meet the colourful Guineafowl Pufferfish, which are omnivores that help control algae levels and keep coral reefs clean by feeding on algae, sponges, and small invertebrates. Their feeding habits prevent overgrowth that can suffocate corals and reduce biodiversity.
Admire the striking Picaso Triggerfish, an important predator that maintains the balance of reef ecosystems, helping to regulate populations of sea urchins, molluscs, and crustaceans. By managing these populations, they prevent overgrazing of coral reefs and maintain the structural integrity of the habitat.
Walk through our underwater Ocean Tunnel and gaze up in wonder at the sleek Blacktip Reef Sharks, vital top predators that keep marine populations in check by preying on the sick, weak, or slow-moving fish. This natural selection promotes strong gene pools and prevents the overpopulation of certain species, which could otherwise lead to habitat degradation.
Many of our marine friends face threats in the wild. For example, the Axolotl, in their native habitats, are important for controlling insect larvae and other small aquatic animals. They also contribute to nutrient cycling in freshwater ecosystems. Their declining populations serve as a warning sign of habitat degradation and pollution. We also see a few seals in our Seal Hospital that have sustained injuries due to discarded fishing equipment or rubbish that enters the sea.
Let’s protect our Earth!
This Earth Day, let’s remember that every small action counts, from reducing plastic waste to supporting conservation efforts. We will be hosting a Beach Clean on Wednesday 29th April at 11am to help promote a cleaner Earth in our community. Send an email to register your attendance and join us in making a difference!