Sea Urchin, the Main Culprit of Sea Desertification

Sea desertification is where algae disappear from coastal bedrock areas, and white lime components stick together, turning the whole bedrock area white.

Have you ever heard that sea urchin is the top cause of sea desertification?

Surprisingly, this delicious ingredient of fine dining is the culprit of environmental destruction. The sea urchin destructively eats the bottom of algae which accelerates sea desertification. That’s why they have been nominated as harmful organisms. Of course, we love to gulp sea urchins. Still, there’s a limit due to their strong fertility and vitality. Therefore, additional effort is necessary, such as proceeding with sea urchin removal work and planting seaweeds underwater. Under the lead of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in Korea, sea urchin removal has conducted. Thanks to the work of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, sea desertification around Dokdo has decreased from 43.4% in 2015 to 37% in 2020.

Isn’t it interesting? Remembering the upcoming Oceans Day, I hope all ASEZ WAO members will take the lead in protecting the marine ecosystem!