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Aleutian Islands are a hotspot for sea life
by NOAA Fisheries 26 May 2019 12:47 UTC
Alaska's Aleutian Islands © NOAA Fisheries
Discover why the Aleutian Islands belong in the spotlight.
The Aleutian Island ecosystem supports a rich diversity of species found in few other places in the world. Such intense biodiversity, more typically associated with tropical rainforests or coral reefs, is especially rare at high latitudes.
A convergence of seas, storms, and volcanoes create the dynamic environment that supports incredible biodiversity. The Aleutians separate the Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea. They are whipped by notorious winds and battered by 50 foot waves. They form the 1,200-mile northern arc of the
Pacific Ring of Fire
.
NOAA Fisheries scientists continue to discover new species of
fish
and
invertebrates
in the Aleutians. Some Aleutian species show promise in
medicine
, including a
potential treatment for cancer
.
Whales, porpoises, sea otters, seals, sea lions, and seabirds live and feed in the Aleutian ecosystem. Some islands are important
rookeries for seals and sea lions
. Passages between islands are critical
migration routes
for endangered whales.
Not only a great diversity, but a great abundance of life thrives in seas surrounding the Aleutians. Overall Alaska is responsible for more than half of the
nation's seafood harvest
.
The Aleutian Islands are home to Dutch Harbor,
America's biggest and busiest fishing port
. Alaska Pollock is the highest volume fishery, but other important harvests include halibut, cod, rockfish, and crab.
Additional Resources:
Meet NOAA Fisheries Biologist Jay Orr
NOAA Fisheries Summer Survey
Status of the Aleutian Island Ecosystem
Alaska Marine Mammal Stock Assessments
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