NOVA Season 8 Episode 3 Sea Behind The Dunes (The)

In the eight season of the popular science documentary, NOVA explores the natural world and delves into the marvels of the universe. Episode three is titled "Sea Behind The Dunes (The)" and focuses on one of the world's largest natural lagoons and the unique ecosystem that resides within it.

The show takes us to the Namib Desert in southern Africa, where we learn about the Walvis Bay lagoon. The lagoon stretches for 50 kilometers along the coast and provides a habitat for an incredible array of marine life. Over 60% of the world's population of lesser flamingos live in the lagoon, along with thousands of other bird species such as pelicans and terns. The lagoon is also home to a diverse range of fish and invertebrates, making it a crucially important ecosystem.

In the episode, we meet a team of scientists who are studying the lagoon and its inhabitants. They explain the unique conditions that allow such a thriving ecosystem to exist in the middle of a desert. The key to the lagoon's success lies in the constant upwelling of nutrient-rich water from deep within the ocean. This creates a feeding frenzy for the birds and fish that call the lagoon home.

The show also explores the history and culture of the area. We learn about the indigenous people who have lived here for thousands of years and their unique relationship with the environment. The team of scientists also take us on a tour of the lagoon, showing us the breathtaking scenery and the incredible diversity of life that resides here.

Throughout the episode, we learn about the threats facing the lagoon and its inhabitants. Pollution and climate change are major concerns, as well as overfishing and habitat loss. We see the efforts being made to protect the lagoon, including the use of drones to monitor the bird populations and the creation of marine protected areas.

Overall, "Sea Behind The Dunes (The)" is a fascinating and informative episode of NOVA. It showcases the incredible beauty and complexity of the natural world and highlights the importance of protecting our planet's fragile ecosystems. The expert commentary and stunning visuals make this a must-watch for anyone interested in science, nature, or environmental issues.