Introduction: The State of the Planet's Oceans (03:01)

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This episode will examine how climate change affects the world's waters. Scientists are studying the planet after exploring the galaxies. (Credits)

Álvaro, Portugal (07:00)

This city dates back to the 16th century. The world's largest long-distance fleet sets sail for cod. The fishery collapses; fishermen search for clams and snails in local tidal basins.

Disappearing Cod and Migration (04:13)

Men who can no longer fish gather at the Witches' Bar in Álvaro to play cards and reminisce. New Bedford, MA looks like a thriving city but has a high rate of unemployment. Dave Martin researches what went wrong with the cod fishing industry.

Turning to Tourism (02:48)

New Bedford's historic district has been restored to look like Herman Melville's time period. The Seamen's Bethel inspires a scene from "Moby Dick." Scientists believe we are consuming the final 10% of the world's fish.

North America's Barrier Reef (09:06)

Located off the coast of Key West, Florida, the coral reef provides refuge to over 200 species. The Tortuga Islands are a national marine sanctuary. The Peter Gladding patrols for boats sneaking into the nature preserve for commercial fishing purposes.

Carbon Dioxide and Rising Sea Levels (06:33)

Megacities and the lifestyles of more affluent countries fuel climate change. Glaciologists measure the speed of Kangerlussuaq Glacier's movement. Melt-water form more frequently and at higher elevations.

Bangladesh (02:43)

A series of rivers and streams form in the Himalayas and travel into the Bay of Bengal. Every year, monsoons sweep across the county. If the sea level rises three feet, it will cover almost half of the rice land.

Calcutta, India (02:09)

As food shortages put pressure on Bangladesh's people, they cross into India. Poverty does not recognize boundaries.

Andes Mountains (04:50)

Scientists estimate the glaciers of South America could disappear by 2015. Glacial run-off irrigates farms and provides drinking water. In Pachacotec, water costs more than 25% of Maria Cortez's husband's income.

Overfishing and Marine Habitat (04:03)

Seafood is a major source of inexpensive protein. As migrants flock to Lima, pollution and overfishing will turn local waters into dead zones. Climate change affects every organism in the sea; fossil fuels result in rapid development.

Laughing Bird Caye, Belize (04:32)

Reef fish converge on Gladden Spit to reproduce. Whale sharks feed on the cloud created by the eggs and sperm. Eco-tourists flock to witness the annual event.

Stewardship of Oceans (04:19)

See footage of Sylvia Earle descending in a small submarine to witness the biodiversity of the oceans. The ocean drives the way the world works.

Credits: The State of the Planet's Oceans (01:33)

Credits: The State of the Planet's Oceans