By Robert Krayer
Clearwater, FL
The Everglades ecosystem is home to one of the most impressive food chains in the world. Every creature, no matter how seemingly insignificant, plays a vital role in each and every other organisms’ existence. Without the tiny mosquitofish, gargantuan alligators would struggle to survive and without the alligator, the mosquitofish’ predators would not be kept in check.
Every being in the Everglades is a cornerstone to a perfectly balanced chain. Unfortunately, when a cornerstone is removed, either by invasive species or by human development, the ecosystem finds itself in danger of collapse.
I have lived in Florida my entire life, and have had the privilege of witnessing the Everglades and it’s wildlife first hand. Seeing the diversity and complexity of this ecosystem is absolutely magnificent. It is truly what I love most about this state and I hope that I will get to keep loving it for years and years to come.
