christopherbroussard44
EcoPhoto #3: Freshwater Clams
Here we see the remnants of freshwater clams (most likely Alasmidonta sp.) within a creek meandering away from Lake Needwood, and part of the Potomac River Basin. These waterways eventually flow into the Chesapeake Bay which leads to the Atlantic Ocean. The numerous filter feeders pictured above provide an ideal example of UN SDG #14: Life Under Water, which aims to “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development” (UN 2020). Filter feeders like oysters, mussels, and clams provide an indispensable ecosystem service: water filtration of pollutants and wastes from our waterways.
These organisms can be found in just about every body of water in the world, both freshwater and saltwater, serving as natural filters and providing sustenance for a wide variety of organisms, including mammals, birds, amphibians, fish, and some reptiles. While we focus on developing sustainable practices to protect our waterways and ultimately the oceans, it remains important to examine every aspect of the problem. In this case, focusing on the preservation of natural filtration systems closer towards human settlements to minimize excess pollution making its way into the oceans. Ideally, pollution should be cut off at the source or as close to its point of origin to prevent damage to the environment or human health. With this in mind, implementing strategies/policies that are directed towards preservation of freshwater bivalves may prove fruitful in limiting chemical runoff into the ocean.
Sources: UN website: sdgs.un.org/goals/goal14, accessed 11/9/2020
EcoPhoto #3: Freshwater Clams
Here we see the remnants of freshwater clams (most likely Alasmidonta sp.) within a creek meandering away from Lake Needwood, and part of the Potomac River Basin. These waterways eventually flow into the Chesapeake Bay which leads to the Atlantic Ocean. The numerous filter feeders pictured above provide an ideal example of UN SDG #14: Life Under Water, which aims to “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development” (UN 2020). Filter feeders like oysters, mussels, and clams provide an indispensable ecosystem service: water filtration of pollutants and wastes from our waterways.
These organisms can be found in just about every body of water in the world, both freshwater and saltwater, serving as natural filters and providing sustenance for a wide variety of organisms, including mammals, birds, amphibians, fish, and some reptiles. While we focus on developing sustainable practices to protect our waterways and ultimately the oceans, it remains important to examine every aspect of the problem. In this case, focusing on the preservation of natural filtration systems closer towards human settlements to minimize excess pollution making its way into the oceans. Ideally, pollution should be cut off at the source or as close to its point of origin to prevent damage to the environment or human health. With this in mind, implementing strategies/policies that are directed towards preservation of freshwater bivalves may prove fruitful in limiting chemical runoff into the ocean.
Sources: UN website: sdgs.un.org/goals/goal14, accessed 11/9/2020