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Introduction: Trend of Otter Population Growth
There is a trend in which the population of Sea Otters is rising due to another population rising, but another population is falling as well due to this. -
Rising CO2 levels
With the combined force of factories, cars, and the burning of Fossil Fuels, the amount of CO2 in the air has increased by great amounts. -
Ocean Acidification
With the increase of CO2 levels, the ocean is becoming more acidic over time, which is affecting certain species that live in the ocean. -
The Decrease in Sea Urchin Population
Because of Ocean Acidification, the shells of the Sea Urchins is weakening, making them die in larger numbers because of them having more trouble with surviving. -
The increase of Sea Otters
Because the Kelp population serves as shelter for the Sea Otters, the Sea Otters now have more places to live and reproduce, therefore increasing their numbers. -
An Increase in Kelp
Because of the decrease of the Sea Urchin population, the Kelp population can grow in larger numbers due to them not being as big of a food source. -
The Summary
Firstly, there was an increase in CO2 levels, which then caused Ocean Acidification. In turn, this caused a decreasing trend in the Sea Urchin population, but in turn an increasing trend in the Sea Otter population. This can be similar to that of a Coyote population, as if a biotic factor in the Coyote's ecosystem is changed, it can either have a positive or negative effect on them.
