Every species has a different rhythm to add to the symphony of an ecosystem—the grazing parrotfish dragging its teeth across reef, a foraging goatfish plying the sand or a sword-wielding marlin that duels schools of sardines. They complement one another in creating a dynamic equilibrium of interaction and relationship, from competition to cooperation, parasitism to symbiosis. Is an exhaustive understanding of any one species possible? Could we every live beyond mystery?

Perhaps no, but long observation, careful study and methodical analysis is a worthwhile and meaningful endeavor. Whether we call it scientific insight, curiosity-fueled wisdom, traditional or indigenous knowledge—our collective worldview is constantly expanding and refining the resolution.

As we enlarge and clarify that picture, new revelations spring into focus. Like the notion that we’re the most world-altering species to breathe Earth’s air, and it’s time we  reencounter our natural rhythm, our behaviors for coexistence.