‘Planet Earth III’ Recap: ‘Freshwater’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Still from Episode Four of ‘Planet Earth III’ – ‘Freshwater’ Courtesy of BBC America.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘Planet Earth III’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we think of the freshwater that is part of our everyday lives, we think of how refreshing it can be, since we consume it often without giving it a thought… and rightfully so. After all, we need water to live, and it is plentiful enough on planet Earth that we can chug it down no problem. But we also think about how it brings us comfort and joy. After all, who doesn’t love a good hot shower? Not to mention getting out into the world and floating atop a lake is peak relaxation and the daredevils out there love a good white-water ride. And we think in those terms, because… we are the masters of this planet and it serves our needs and bends to our whim and well, that’s allowed for us to forget a few things about our water reserves.

In that, the lakes, rivers, and streams that make up our world, were here long before us. For water is more than a human element, it is an element that is critical to all life on Earth, especially freshwater. Since there are so many animals that make use of it as well, in ways we sometimes aren’t aware of, and it is supremely important that we remember that. In part, because we need to be reminded now and again that we are part of something bigger and are fortunate enough to be the dominant species. But also… to make sure we properly appreciate nature through the understanding… that the lakes we relax atop, are home to so much more than inflatable rafts and cold beer and that’s why this week’s episode of Planet Earth III is of note. Simply because ‘Freshwater’, helped to educate us on such matters.

All by showcasing how the freshwater spots of our world that we would normally snap a few pictures of, are indeed thriving ecosystems, and a cradle of life for so many. For instance, there are frogs in the tropics that use freshwater as a nursery. For they breed in the trees above and that allows for their tadpoles to drop into the water and grow and start their lives. Plus, there are fish that will brave waterfalls to ensure their survival, and there are even species of birds that live atop lilypads in some parts of the world, despite the risk that a handful of predators pose. Because freshwater does so much to sustain, and even predators have figured out how to adapt to it. Since there are alligators that know the best bodies of freshwater to hide in to snag a meal.

All of which is proof positive that freshwater really is teeming with life and is more than a recreational choice for humanity. Which also means… that we need to treat it differently and offer it a touch more respect. Because we have in some ways, created some trouble by being masters of the domain here. For we of course, have altered the course of streams and rivers, and dammed up some spots in the name of progress and our needs. Not giving much thought to what nature also needs, and that’s brought about trouble in some parts of the world. Such as in Pakistan where the rare dolphins that thrive in freshwater there, are finding their ways into urban streams because of the canal system there. Prompting thankfully, our help in getting them back where they belong.

But if those dolphins are running into problems, imagine what’s happening to other species that once relied upon a stream to function, only to have it diverted in the name of progress? Which is a question that puts an exclamation point on a supremely educational and poignant episode of this series. One that deeply spoke to the need for balance between humanity and the world we are blessed enough to live upon. For there is simply so much happening in the freshwater regions of our world, and clearly, what goes on there has been happening for ages on end and deserves to continue without concern. And now that we know we need to do better to help these areas thrive, it will be interesting to see what other lessons in balance await us as this fascinating journey around the globe continues along. Until next time.

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