Ep 5. Water

In the fifth episode of Earth: A New Wild season 1, titled "Water," host Dr. M. Sanjayan explores the vital role that water plays in supporting life on Earth. From the ocean depths to the highest mountain peaks, water is everywhere on our planet and shapes the landscape and ecosystems that surround us.

To kick off the episode, Sanjayan travels to the mountains of Nepal, where he meets with a local guide who is working to restore damaged ecosystems and protect the vital water sources that flow from the mountains. Through his conversations with the guide and other locals, Sanjayan learns about the complex relationship between people and water in this region, and how climate change is affecting both.

From there, Sanjayan travels to the Amazon rainforest to witness its incredible biodiversity and learn about the important role that rivers and other waterways play in sustaining the region's countless species. He then heads to the United States, where he visits the Florida Everglades and explores the fascinating dynamics of the water-driven ecosystem there. From its unique bird populations to its powerful alligators, the Everglades are a testament to the incredible complexity of nature and the critical role that water plays in sustaining life.

Turning his attention to the oceans, Sanjayan then explores the incredible diversity of marine life that exists beneath the waves. He travels to Palau, a small island nation known for its incredible diving opportunities, where he gets up close and personal with sharks, jellyfish, and other ocean creatures. He also visits a coral farm where scientists are working to help restore damaged reefs, which are essential habitats for countless marine species.

Finally, Sanjayan ends the episode by visiting the Great Lakes region of North America. He learns about the challenges that come with balancing human needs for water with the need to protect the lakes' unique ecosystems, which are home to countless species of fish and other wildlife. Through his travels and conversations with scientists, experts, and local residents, Sanjayan highlights the importance of water to all life on Earth, and the urgent need to protect this vital resource in the face of climate change and other threats.

Overall, "Water" is a fascinating and eye-opening episode of Earth: A New Wild that showcases the incredible diversity of life on our planet and the central role that water plays in sustaining it all. From the mountains to the oceans, this episode is a feast for the senses and a powerful reminder of how interconnected all life on Earth really is.