Sea Otter Heroes by Patricia Newman

Sea Otter Heroes by Patricia Newman

A Robert F. Sibert Informational Honor Book
A Green Earth Book Award Winner
This up-close look at a fascinating scientific discovery highlights the critical role predators such as sea otters play in keeping ecosystems healthy.
In Elkhorn Slough, an inlet on the California coast, seagrass grows healthy and strong in the shallow water. This healthy seagrass baffled marine biologist Brent Hughes. The scientist expected this estuary to be overrun with algae, causing the seagrass to die. Why was the seagrass thriving?
As Brent investigated, signs pointed to an unexpected player helping to keep the seagrass healthy: sea otters What do these top predators have to do with an aquatic grass at the opposite end of the food chain? Brent's amazing discovery gave scientists insight into the delicate balance of ecosystems. Follow science in action as Brent conducts the research that led to this major discovery.

Patricia Newman's stories encourage young readers to seek out real-world connections. Her books inspire readers to use their imaginations to solve real-world problems and act in the best interests of their communities. Sea Otter Heroes: The Predators Who Saved an Ecosystem, Junior Library Guild Selection Eavesdropping on Elephants, Bank Street College Best Book Zoo Scientists to the Rescue, Booklist Editor's Choice Ebola: Fears and Facts, and Green Earth Book Award winner Plastic, Ahoy! are among the books mentioned. Patricia gives talks at schools and conferences about how children of all ages can make a difference. Her website is www.patriciamnewman.com.