Ep 6. Coasts

Coastlines are the hub for human civilization, and they're also a diverse ecosystem for marine creatures. In this episode of Blue Planet II, the camera crew explores the rich, complex world of the coast. There are animals that you might expect to find: pelicans, sea lions, and crabs. But there are also some that you would never expect. For example, an underwater forest where the octopus keeps house. There, it's able to manipulate tools with ease and catch prey with devastating accuracy.

The episode alternates between the wonders of the land and sea. Sea lions come ashore to give birth, and fierce males fight for territory. Meanwhile, the ocean nearby hosts vibrant coral reefs, teeming with fish and other sea life. The cameras capture every aspect of their lives: from small schools of fish flitting amongst the coral, to large predatory animals that hunt amidst the natural wreckage.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about this episode is how it shows the interconnectedness of life above and below the water. Birds befriend fish that jump from the waves, preying on an easy meal while the fish receive protection from other predators. Similarly, the land and the sea often mix in unexpected ways: like the blowhole that shoots water high into the air, or the rare lagoons that perfectly combine saltwater and freshwater.

Human impact on the coast is also thoroughly explored, with the camera crew showing us both the beauty of coastal cities and their pollution-fueled degradation. From the beaches choked with garbage to the fishing boats dragging nets through the sea, human activity has both cleansed and corrupted the precious coast. Yet there is still hope: as the episode nears its end, storm-tossed waves wash treasure troves of plastic to shore, where a group of volunteers patrols the beach, picking up debris and removing it from the environment.

In the end, Coasts is a celebration and a warning. From majestic orcas leaping from the icy waters to microscopic life forms hiding in the sand, there is so much to explore and ponder in the world of the coast. But it's not just up to us as humans to enjoy these diverse and beautiful sights. We also have to be responsible for our actions and work hard to preserve and protect the coast, ensuring there's more beauty to enjoy by generations to come.