Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin Season 1 Episode 8 Alien Invaders

The eighth episode of season one of Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin is titled Alien Invaders. In this episode, Jeff sets out to explore the impact of invasive species on the fragile ocean ecosystems. Jeff explains how the introduction of non-native species can cause significant damage to the underwater world, making it difficult for native species to survive.

The episode takes viewers on a journey across the United States, highlighting the stories of invasive species in different regions. Jeff starts off by exploring a kelp forest in California that has been overgrown by an invasive species of seaweed known as Sargassum muticum. He elaborates on how this seaweed came into the area and how it is outcompeting other native species. Jeff interviews local scientists who describe how they are working to prevent the spread of Sargassum muticum and to restore the kelp forest to its original state.

Next, Jeff heads to Florida, where he discovers a thriving population of lionfish, which are non-native predators that are decimating the local fish populations. Jeff goes diving with a group of scientists who are trying to control the lionfish population by capturing and removing them from the area. He also meets up with local fishermen, who have started to serve lionfish in their restaurants, turning a pest into a meal.

In his next stop, Jeff visits the Great Lakes region, where he learns about the impact of invasive species on the freshwater ecosystem. He meets with a group of scientists who are studying how the introduction of zebra mussels, an invasive species that arrived on the Great Lakes in the 1980s, has changed the ecosystem and affected native species. Jeff sees firsthand how these mussels are outcompeting native species for food and space.

The episode also shows Jeff exploring the Gulf of Mexico, where he learns about the impact of oil spills on the environment and how invasive species are taking advantage of the disrupted ecosystem. He meets local fishermen who are struggling to make a living as the water becomes more and more polluted.

The episode concludes with a sobering message about the need for more awareness of the impact of invasive species on ocean and freshwater ecosystems. Jeff reminds viewers that everyone can play a role in preventing the spread of invasive species by taking simple actions like not releasing aquarium pets into the wild and being careful about what is brought into lakes and oceans.

Overall, Alien Invaders is an informative and engaging episode that sheds light on a critical issue affecting the health of our oceans and freshwater ecosystems. Jeff Corwin's enthusiasm and expertise make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about the impact of invasive species on the environment.