Scuba diving is a valuable skill for marine research, but the training and costs required can create further disparities in a field that already lacks diversity.

Foundation species build habitats that benefit other organisms — such as reefs — and are vital to healthy ecosystems. Many important marine systems are reliant on foundation species that are sensitive to warming temperatures, and climate change presents an increasing threat. 

Regulatory barriers are starting to come down for offshore farming in Southern California and the Gulf of Mexico—NOAA’s two initial Aquaculture Opportunity Areas. Additionally, land-based recirculating aquaculture systems, widely known as RAS, are already in place at several locations around the country with robust interest to add more. What’s needed next is a steady supply of marine fish deemed commercially ready for farming to support this industry.