This Fragile Planet

Everyone knows that fish need clean water to survive, but how many of us are aware of the impact we humans have on their aquatic environments? This Fragile Planet follows a group of school-age kids as they tour the South Carolina Aquarium of Charleston Harbor where several different ecosystems are recreated--from mountains and piedmonts to swamps and salt marshes, as well as the ocean. Real scientists and tour guides answer the children's questions and explain the balance that exists between people and their environment, while the program features fantastic, up-close footage of fish, sharks, hermit crabs, and many more creatures. Viewers are told that even the smallest of animals have their place in the ecosystem--even (shudder) snakes! Additional segments are narrated by the children, giving the program a warm, peer-oriented feeling. In these days of ever-increasing environmental pollution, it is important to teach youngsters the need for preserving wildlife for future generations, and this video helps them see that decisions made today will affect the world of tomorrow. Definitely recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P. (J. Asala)