How the World Churns

Fascinating item at the Earth Observatory about how all the creatures in the seas -- from the mightiest whale to the tiniest phytoplankton -- effectively stir the ocean to a degree comparable to the wind and tides. The combined mechanical energy of all those swishing tails and undulating bodies, researchers estimate, is equal to one terrawatt, or a trillion watts. Furthermore, their role in ocean turnover is significant enough to affect the climate. As Dave Barry would say, I swear, I'm not making this up. Read it for yourself.