Scientists Use Big Data to Understand Earth's Marine Ecosystems
A lthough the Earth’s oceans cover 71% of the planet’s surface, 95% of the underwater world remains unknown according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Earth’s oceans are an integral component for the planet’s climate, food supply, marine ecosystems, and weather. Scientists are now using big data to better understand the world’s oceans and marine ecosystems. Forbes.com contributor Lisa Wirthman writes about emerging oceanographic research in a recent article titled: “A Wired Ocean? How Big Data Is Saving Marine Predators.” In the article, Wirthman interviewed Stanford University marine biologist Barbara Block. There are several reasons for having a better understanding of the world’s oceans. Our ability to breathe oxygen is derived from the ocean — which shields CO2 from the atmosphere, Block explains. “What will help us better understand the planet’s condition is to better understand what’s underneath two-thirds of it, which is covered by wate...