Researchers identified a 1,500km-long fragment of an ancient continent called Mauritia beneath the Indian Ocean. The micro-continent contains rocks dated up to 2 billion years old, challenging the formation timeline of the ocean.
Using ocean WiFi hotspots, Stanford professor Barbara Block is tracking animal movements in real-time, enabling new insights into marine ecosystems and fisheries management. Her 'Wired Ocean' project aims to establish a global network of instruments to study the biosphere under unprecedented human impact.
A long-term mesocosm experiment off Sweden investigates the effects of ocean acidification on plankton communities, shedding light on their ability to adapt to new conditions. The study also explores the impact of ocean acidification on the development of fish at the base of the food web.
The inclusion of intense but small-scale polar storms in climate models could lead to a different picture of climate change. Adding these storms results in significant changes in ocean circulation, including an increase in heat traveling north in the Atlantic Ocean.
A new study found severe dissolution of pteropod shells in Southern Ocean waters due to ocean acidification. The tiny snails are a valuable food source for fish and birds, and their shells dissolving may increase vulnerability to predation and infection.
A University of Houston geologist is leading an international team on a two-month, $10 million expedition to drill into the Pacific Ocean's lower crust. The voyage aims to distinguish between competing theories on magma intrusion, shedding light on volcanic seafloor spreading and oceanic processes.
Researchers, led by Dr. Emily Shuckburgh, apply mathematical ideas from dynamical systems to analyze circulation in the Southern Ocean. Mixing of water with different properties is a key determinant in heat uptake by oceans.
A new study reveals how warming waters in the Southern Ocean can connect with the movement of massive ice-sheets deep in the Antarctic interior. The research found that ocean warming can trigger increased flow of ice through narrow glaciers, causing inland sectors of the ice-sheet to become thinner and flow faster.
Researchers discovered Arctic crustaceans migrate below sea ice during winter nights, using deep-ocean currents to reach colder areas. This adaptation increases survival and enables them to remain in the Arctic Ocean, a key finding that challenges previous perceptions of ice fauna's vulnerability.
Researchers Kevin Speer and John Marshall suggest that the majority of ocean heat transport occurs in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica, driven by strong winds. This finding could significantly impact our understanding of global climate processes.
A team of researchers, including UBC scientists, assessed global ocean health and created the Ocean Health Index, scoring countries from 36 to 86. Canada and the US performed well with scores of 70 and 63 respectively.
The Ocean Health Index assesses the benefits to people of healthy oceans, combining ecological, social, economic, and political conditions. It scores countries globally, ranging from 36 to 86, with densely populated nations like Germany and uninhabited islands leading the way.
Researchers found that when hurricanes blow over ocean regions swamped by fresh water, the conditions can intensify the storm. This results in a 50 percent increase in intensity, which can lead to much larger destruction and death.
NASA's GOES Project provides a complete view of the Atlantic and eastern Pacific Ocean basins. As of August 13, the Atlantic tropics are quieter, with fewer low-pressure areas than the previous week. Tropical Storm Hector in the east Pacific is weakening due to wind shear.
A new study in Nature confirms an improved method for measuring nitrogen fixation in the ocean, revealing rates that are between 62 and 600 percent higher than previously measured. The findings leave a gap in the nitrogen budget due to incomplete knowledge of microorganisms responsible for these processes.
A team of scientists has discovered a method of how carbon is drawn down from the surface of the Southern Ocean to deep waters, utilizing winds, currents, and eddies. This understanding improves knowledge of climate change effects on ocean carbon absorption.
Researchers found that localized pathways created by winds, currents, and eddies draw waters down into the deep ocean, locking away carbon from the atmosphere. This improved understanding helps predict effects of climate change on ocean carbon absorption.
Kendall L. Carder has been recognized with the Jerlov Award for his groundbreaking research on in situ optical measurements, underwater imaging systems, and ocean color remote sensing. His contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of light in the ocean.
A new trigger for the North Atlantic plankton bloom has been discovered, revealing that swirling currents of seawater sustain phytoplankton in shallower waters. This phenomenon is crucial to the ocean's carbon cycle, absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide and emitting oxygen.
Researchers found that whirlpools, or eddies, in the North Atlantic Ocean sustain phytoplankton growth, allowing them to thrive in shallower waters with ample sunlight. This discovery helps explain the timing and patchy appearance of the massive spring blooms.
The Kiel Cluster of Excellence 'The Future Ocean' has secured funding for its second phase, focusing on natural resources, biological diversity, and gas exchange. This will enable the team to provide a scientific basis for sustainable ocean management and engage in dialogue with decision makers.
New research by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists reveals that human activities are the primary cause of global ocean warming over the past 50 years. The study analyzed observational and modeling uncertainties to confirm this conclusion.
Scientists from WHOI conducted a new study measuring carbon levels at various depths in the Arctic Ocean. The data will help researchers understand how carbon cycles through the marine ecosystem and respond to rising global temperatures.
Scientists have measured a significant decline in Antarctic Bottom Water, a key driver of global ocean currents, with a 60% reduction estimated since 1970. The densest waters are becoming less saline, indicating rapid response to climate changes.
A new transatlantic graduate school in ocean system science and technology is launched by German and Canadian researchers. The Helmholtz Research School will improve understanding of the ocean's responses to natural and human influences, with a focus on sustainable use of marine resources.
A new study by British Antarctic Survey reveals that warm ocean currents are the dominant cause of recent ice loss from Antarctica. The research found that 20 out of 54 ice shelves around Antarctica are being melted by warm ocean currents, most of which are in West Antarctica.
Marine researchers have linked ocean acidification to the collapse of oyster seed production at an Oregon hatchery, where larval growth declined due to corrosive water conditions. The study's findings suggest that increased CO2 levels may push oyster larval growth past the break-even point in terms of production.
A new study links the end-Ordovician mass extinction to nutrient-driven anoxia in the global ocean. The research overthrows century-old knowledge on why marine animals faced their first major challenges, highlighting the tight coupling between life evolution and oxygen dynamics.
The OceanScope project combines the ocean-observing community and the global shipping industry to study ocean circulation dynamics and fill observational gaps. By leveraging commercial ships like Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas, the partnership aims to create a cost-effective opportunity for systematic long-term observation.
A University of Rhode Island oceanographer is leading an effort to partner with the global shipping industry to collect detailed ocean data on commercial vessels. The proposed OceanScope initiative aims to fill observational deficiencies in the ocean, particularly below the surface, where satellites cannot measure properties.
A new study reveals a global ocean warming trend spanning at least 100 years, with an average increase of .33-degree Celsius in upper ocean temperatures. The research uses historical temperature readings from HMS Challenger's 1872-1876 voyage and modern data from the Argo program.
A recent study led by a US scientist estimates that human impacts on the ocean could cost the global economy over $1 trillion per year by 2100. The research highlights the urgent need to reduce pollution, overfishing, and other threats to ocean health.
The Surface Ocean CO2 Atlas (SOCAT) provides a comprehensive dataset of 6.3 million global observations since 1968, documenting year-to-year and decadal changes in ocean carbon uptake. This will help assess the feedbacks between climate change and the ocean carbon cycle.
Researchers found a link between large dust storms on southern Iceland and accelerated glacial melting, while also increasing nutrients in the North Atlantic Ocean. The iron-rich dust boosts ocean primary productivity and stimulates marine biota growth, drawing down CO2 from the atmosphere.
Scientists have tracked water from Bass Strait to the Indian Ocean using ocean gliders, revealing a 200-metre tall wall of water and discovering undiluted Bass Strait water hundreds of kilometres away. The study showcases the benefits of Australia's Integrated Marine Observing System.
As ice melts in the Far North, Canada faces growing challenges but also opportunities to lead international governance in ocean law. David VanderZwaag, a leading expert, emphasizes the country's strengths in ocean governance and suggests advancing laws on shipping regulation, ocean governance and marine biodiversity protection.
Researchers from UNH's Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping used multibeam echo sounders to map the entire Mariana Trench, discovering four bridges spanning its depth of 10,994 meters. The bridges are thought to be formed by the collision of tectonic plates, providing new insights into Earth's complex geology.
A recent study found humpback whales on opposite sides of the southern Indian Ocean singing unique songs, with only one shared theme. The results suggest limited exchange between regions and shed light on how whale culture spreads.
The Tasman Sea has become a global warming hotspot, with ocean temperatures rising two degrees warmer than 60 years ago due to intensified east-west winds and greenhouse gas emissions. A long-term monitoring network is needed to track these changes.
Expanding ocean dead zones driven by climate change reduce oxygen levels, forcing blue marlins and other billfish to surface waters where they are more vulnerable to fishing. This shift affects the long-term health of these species and their ecosystems.
A new study analyzes radioactivity from the Fukushima nuclear power plants, revealing high levels of cesium-137 and iodine-131. While the releases are not a direct threat to humans or marine life, they raise concerns about radiation accumulation in marine sediments.
WHOI scientists Henry Dick and Joe Pedlosky received prestigious medals from the American Geophysical Union. Dick was awarded the Harry H. Hess Medal for his work on the mantle melting and ocean crust formation along global ocean ridges.
A new study analyzes radioactivity discharged from the Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear power plants and finds that while levels are high, they pose no direct exposure threat to humans or marine life. However, accumulated radionuclides in marine sediments remain poorly understood.
A University of Miami study reveals that the Southern Oscillation plays a bigger role in the climate system than previously thought. The research finds that atmospheric pressure, surface temperature, and precipitation are similar across two climate scenarios with static and dynamic oceans.
New research from the University of Missouri examines past greenhouse climate intervals to understand interactions among atmosphere, oceans, and climate. The study found changes in ocean circulation patterns 70 million years ago could help scientists understand modern increases in greenhouse gases.
A new three-year study aims to better understand the Arctic ocean and sea ice system, predicting its future changes and their implications for the UK and globally. The research will investigate how the seasonal removal of sea ice cover affects winds, currents, and ocean temperatures.
An international research project led by ONR aims to improve long-range weather forecasts and seasonal outlooks by studying the Madden-Julian Oscillation in the Indian Ocean. The study will provide valuable insights into climate modeling and refine global climate computer models.
Researchers have found numerous channels allowing methane to reach the seafloor, and discovered solid hydrate formations that can release gas as the ocean warms. This study aims to improve understanding of methane origins, escape routes, and potential impacts on global climate change.
A new study reveals the ancient deep ocean was devoid of oxygen and rich in iron for nearly a billion years, challenging previous models for life-essential nutrient distribution. The research suggests hydrothermal systems on the seafloor controlled iron deposition, potentially affecting early evolution.
Researchers discovered a specific type of bacteria capturing carbon dioxide in the 'twilight zone' of the ocean, a region thought to be inhospitable for photosynthesis. The study provides new insights into the dark ocean's carbon cycle and challenges previous assumptions about the role of Archaea.
Researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and ETH Zürich studied dust and iron fluxes in Antarctic Ocean over 4 million years. Dust was found to increase during glacial periods, stimulating phytoplankton growth and increasing CO2 sink. The study suggests that dust played a crucial role in past climate change and could have imp...
Researchers investigate the cause of the Permian-Triassic extinction, finding that ocean acidification may have played a significant role. Additionally, studies suggest that reforestation on historically productive, snow-free land could contribute to climate change mitigation even in northern latitudes.
CSIRO scientists rely on international cooperation to deploy Argo ocean and climate monitoring instruments, as Somali pirates operate in the region. The program offers crucial data for understanding Australian and south Asian weather patterns.
A new network of deep-ocean moorings is being deployed in the Indonesia Archipelago to measure changes in ocean currents between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The moorings will help scientists understand the impact of these currents on Australia's climate, including tropical weather patterns and seasonal rainfall.
The WHOI Ocean Science Journalism Fellowship program provides a one-week, residential experience for professional writers and producers to explore ocean research and its impact on climate change and human activities. Fellows gain access to new research findings and fundamental background information in various ocean disciplines.
The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation has awarded a research grant to Dr. Neil Hammerschlag's RJ Dunlap Marine Conservation Program at the University of Miami to investigate the impact of declining marine apex predator populations on the ocean ecosystem.
New research reveals that climate change is negatively impacting the ocean's capacity to absorb human-produced carbon dioxide, with warmer water holding less carbon. This finding challenges previous studies and highlights the need for improved data sets and expanded analysis in other oceans.
New research suggests that warming ocean layers surrounding the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets will melt underwater portions faster than previously thought. This would increase sea level rise more than already projected.
Coastal communities can address localized ocean acidification hotspots by applying federal and state laws and policies at a local level, reducing the impact on marine environments.
Researchers found that freshwater from melting ice sheets can weaken climate-controlling ocean currents, leading to dramatic climate change. The study's results suggest a future ice sheet collapse would have significant climatic consequences.