Krill

Despite being the size of a paperclip, krill are giants when it comes to the health of our ocean and planet.

This tiny keystone species is a huge source of nutrition for creatures big and small, and without them the entire ocean ecosystem would look very different. But even though krill are among some of the most abundant animal species on our planet, these crustaceans face big threats to their survival.

In Krill, readers will dive deep into the biology and behavior of krill, from their intricate swarming patterns to their astounding bioluminescence. Readers will learn about the marine food web that connects krill to so many living things and why it is so important to safeguard our oceans for the future. It's time to protect these tiny ocean giants-and the environment they swim in.
Key Selling Points

• This STEM book examines the evolution, biology, habitat and threats to survival that krill species face throughout the world's oceans, including the climate crisis and overfishing, and inspires readers to take action.

• Examines the incredible survival tactics of this species. For example, when a krill is startled, it "lobsters" or flicks its tail to dart away from danger. Another example is the ability to molt and bolt-shedding its exoskeleton to confuse predators.

• Explores the positive impact krill has on the planet. For example, by molting and pooping, they transport carbon from the surface of the ocean to the bottom, helping balance the types of gases found in Earth's atmosphere to stabilize the climate.

• Gives young readers practical tools to help conserve krill populations and highlights the importance of worldwide ecosystems and the protection of keystone species.

• The award-winning author has a speciality in STEM topics and has written multiple Orca titles including What Poo Can Do, Microbes to the Rescue and Beyond Earth. She has a master of science degree and is adept at making complex concepts understandable, a skill she uses in her science writing and teaching.
Part of the nonfiction Orca Wild series for middle-grade readers and illustrated with color photographs throughout, this book examines the biology, aquatic habitats and environmental threats facing krill throughout the world's oceans.
Yolanda Ridge is the author of three books in the Orca Footprints series, What Poo Can Do, Microbes to the Rescue and Beyond Earth, as well as two other juvenile nonfiction titles from Annick Press. She's also written several middle-grade novels, including two environment-themed titles for Orca Young Readers. She has a master of science degree and is adept at making complex concepts understandable-a skill she uses in her science writing and teaching. She lives in Rossland, British Columbia. The Orca Wild series travels over land, underwater and through the air to meet the animals who live in our world. The books challenge us to think about our relationships, both good and bad, with vulnerable species and habitats. Save the krill!