Many people want to help protect our oceans—but what about our lakes, streams, ponds, and rivers? Despite making up less than half a percent of the world’s total water supply, freshwater is the lifeblood of human civilizations and critical aquatic ecosystems. Fortunately for us, there is a diverse array of biota working hard to keep these vital waters clean and healthy. In this short film by Freshwaters Illustrated, dive into a busy tropical stream ecosystem and learn how shrimp, crabs, and other invertebrates are creating a nutrient-rich environment for wildlife to flourish and humans to enjoy.

Follow the Luquillo Long Term Ecological Research site on Facebook

The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the web and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic's belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of National Geographic Partners.

Know of a great short film that should be part of our Showcase? Email sfs@natgeo.com to submit a video for consideration. See more from National Geographic's Short Film Showcase at documentary.com

#shortfilmshowcase @natgeo

Many people want to help protect our oceans—but what about our lakes, streams, ponds, and rivers? Despite making up less than half a percent of the world’s total water supply, freshwater is the lifeblood of human civilizations and critical aquatic ecosystems. Fortunately for us, there is a diverse array of biota working hard to keep these vital waters clean and healthy. In this short film by Freshwaters Illustrated, dive into a busy tropical stream ecosystem and learn how shrimp, crabs, and other invertebrates are creating a nutrient-rich environment for wildlife to flourish and humans to enjoy.

Follow the Luquillo Long Term Ecological Research site on Facebook

The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the web and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic's belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of National Geographic Partners.

Know of a great short film that should be part of our Showcase? Email sfs@natgeo.com to submit a video for consideration. See more from National Geographic's Short Film Showcase at documentary.com

#shortfilmshowcase @natgeo