A Chronicle of Coasts: Study charts historical changes in seas, estuaries
By Ben Harder
Human exploitation of marine species and destruction of habitat have been spoiling coastal ecosystems since the birth of the Roman republic. By comparing historical changes in 12 bodies of water worldwide, a new study highlights the extent to which civilization’s advance has led to ecological degradation.
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“Estuaries, because of their proximity to human settlements, are sort of ground zero for human impacts,” says marine ecologist Larry B. Crowder of Duke University. The bounties of coastal seas and estuaries began attracting people before the start of recorded history.