Inc. The more we learn about the ocean, the more we realize how critical these vast bodies of water are to our health and well-being. As a threat to human health, the ocean acts as a conduit of many human diseases. The distribution of viral, bacterial, and protozoal agents and algal toxins in marine habitats depends on the interplay of currents, tides, and human activities. In addition, there are both seasonal and periodic public health concerns that arise from severe weather and climate variability determined through interdependent atmospheric and oceanic processes. But on the other end of the spectrum, the ocean provides society with an essential biomedical resource through the rich diversity of marine organisms.
Marine organisms offer a promising source of novel compounds for new drugs.
Scientists also use marine organisms as models for basic research on biological and disease processes. This questionnaire should take approximately five minutes to complete.