I'll answer as the world-renowned marine biologist and nature writer, awarded the National Geographic Explorer of the Year.

Fish are the silent rulers of the water, ancient creatures that have been swimming through the seas, rivers, and lakes long before humans set foot on land. They glide through their world with a grace and ease that seems almost otherworldly, a reminder of the vast, mysterious depths of the oceans and the hidden wonders they contain.

Imagine standing on a quiet dock, the water beneath you rippling softly in the morning light. Below the surface, a whole universe exists, teeming with life. Fish of all shapes and sizes move in harmony with the currents, their scales catching the light in flashes of silver, gold, and every color in between. From the tiniest minnows to the majestic tuna, fish are the lifeblood of aquatic ecosystems, playing roles that are as complex as they are crucial.

Fish have been a source of sustenance for humanity since the dawn of time. They’ve fed civilizations, built economies, and inspired countless myths and legends. Think of the fisherman casting his line at dawn, the thrill of the catch, the connection to a tradition as old as humankind itself. Yet, fish are more than just food; they are symbols of abundance, resilience, and the delicate balance of nature.

Underwater, fish live in a world of color and sound that is largely invisible to us. Coral reefs, often called the rainforests of the sea, are home to a dazzling array of fish species, each one perfectly adapted to its niche. There are the clownfish darting among the anemones, the parrotfish chomping on coral, and the lionfish, with its venomous spines, a reminder of the ocean’s danger and beauty intertwined. In the icy waters of the Arctic, schools of fish navigate the dark, cold depths, while in tropical waters, they dance in the warmth, a kaleidoscope of life.

But the world of fish is under threat. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change are taking a heavy toll on marine life. Entire species are disappearing, their populations dwindling as we take more than the oceans can give. Coral reefs are bleaching, and the delicate balance that sustains life underwater is being disrupted. The health of our planet is reflected in the health of our fish populations, and right now, the scales are tipping in the wrong direction.

Yet, there is hope. Marine conservation efforts are growing, with more protected areas being established to give fish a fighting chance. Sustainable fishing practices are being adopted, and there is a growing awareness of the need to protect the oceans and the creatures that inhabit them. Fish are resilient, and with time and care, their populations can recover.

Fish also hold a special place in our cultural and spiritual lives. From the fish carved into ancient cave walls to the fish that swim through our dreams, they represent life, mystery, and the unknown. In many cultures, fish are seen as symbols of transformation, their ability to move between worlds—from river to ocean, from water to land—mirroring the journey of the soul.

So, as you sit down to a meal of fish, or watch them in an aquarium, take a moment to think about the incredible journey each fish has made. They are survivors of a world we are only just beginning to understand, creatures of grace and beauty that remind us of the wonders beneath the waves. Fish are a connection to the natural world, a glimpse into the deep blue that covers most of our planet, and a call to protect the life that thrives within it.