Sustainability for Maine life is a constant fight involving several factors, the availability of light and nutrients, global warming, excessive fishing and human activities that trigger destruction.
             Phytoplanton is the algae and photosysthetic bacteria that grow as single cells or in small groups of cells. Phytoplanton is the beginning of the food web for small crustaceans, protozoans and many species of fish. Phytoplanton is found in the euphotic zone, which is from the ocean's surface to a depth where light is still available for photosynthesis. In addition to light, nutrients such as phosphorus or nitrogen compounds must be available which wash up from the land. Thus, the further away from land, the less phytoplanton is produced due to the lack of nutrients. Below, close to the ocean floor the ecosystem is nourished by detritus coming from above and by vents and fissures that produce minerals and warmth. These nutrients are brought to the surface when the water currents hit underwater mountains and bring the nutrient rich water to the surface for the survival of phytoplanton. Relying on this process limits the life in these outer areas of the sea.
             Another factor that has impacted marine life is global warming which scientists have linked to declining reproduction and increased mortality. A study of the United States Pacific coast found mortality rates increased in seabirds, seals and sea lions during the El Nino years. The warming temperatures have an effect on the sea level, water currents and upwelling, sea ice, algae and the life within the sea.
             Human beings are the most uncontrollable damaging factor in the Marine ecosystem. Even though much as been accomplished to restock the oceans with fish, we continue to overfish. Our recreational activities continue to cause harm to the marine environment by the destruction of coal reefs. In addition, the mining of mineral resources, which produces tons of sand and...