A new study reveals that jellyfish blooms drastically alter marine food webs by shunting food energy from fish toward bacteria. The researchers found that jellyfish produce organic matter rich in carbon, which is rapidly metabolized by bacteria, reducing its potential to assimilate into the food web.
A new study reveals that the duration of open water periods has no relationship with the geographic coverage of marine species, contradicting previous assumptions. Ocean currents allow fish larvae to quickly spread their distribution worldwide.
A team of researchers has deciphered the genome of a tropical marine organism, Lyngbya majuscula 3L, which produces substances with biomedical promise. The study provides insights into the genetics underlying their production and reveals key information about its limitations and shortcomings.
A new antibody-based biosensor can detect marine pollutants like oil much faster and more cheaply than current technologies. The device can process samples in less than 10 minutes and detect pollutants at levels as low as just a few parts per billion.
A new study of marine snails reveals a significant boost in metabolism between 200 and 80 million years ago. The researchers suggest that this change was driven by the shift from plant-based to predatory diets, which led to an evolutionary arms race.
In a 26-year study, marine invertebrates in Port Valdez have stabilized to resemble an undisturbed glacial fjord. This recovery was facilitated by the dominant species Capitellidae, known for their opportunistic nature.
The UK's first fully protected marine reserve is already providing positive results for both fishermen and conservationists after only two years in operation. The reserve has seen a significant increase in commercially valuable scallops and several species of algae promoting biodiversity.
A new VIMS study finds that propeller-induced turbulence kills large numbers of copepods, tiny crustaceans crucial to marine food webs. The researchers warn that this could have significant impacts on local ecosystems and water quality.
Marine biologists from the University of Miami have created a probabilistic survey approach to count reef fish, increasing efficiency and accuracy. This framework can support long-term sustainability of reef resources globally, informing management decisions for coral reefs in various regions.
Peter Mumby is recognized for his work on coral reef conservation strategies, influencing conservation policy and contributing to the implementation of marine park protections. His research has provided insight into the consequences of conserving herbivorous fishes, reducing nutrient runoff, and restoring urchin populations.
Researchers found that sewage discharge and urban runoff from coastal areas are affecting the genetic structure of sea stars, limiting their dispersal and decreasing genetic diversity. This study highlights the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems, suggesting a need for more effective management strategies.
Researchers show strong links between South China Sea, West Pacific, and Coral Triangle preserve diversity and resilience of coral reefs. The region's natural resources are closely interconnected, highlighting the need for collective action to protect them.
Research reveals fish produce fine-grained carbonates through their intestines, which are then excreted and released into the environment. This discovery sheds light on the origins of ancient limestone and chalk deposits.
Frank Millero, a leading expert in marine geochemistry, has been awarded the prestigious V.M. Goldschmidt Award for his major achievements in the field. His research focuses on understanding biogeochemical processes and the global carbon dioxide cycle in the world's oceans.
The study reveals that industrial and traditional fishing activities are putting the monk seal and Atlantic hump-backed dolphin at great danger due to over-exploitation of resources. The researchers call for stricter regulation and monitoring of fishing practices to protect these species.
Marine ecologists at Oregon State University have shown that tiny fish larvae can drift with ocean currents and replenish fished areas long distances. This discovery adds credibility to the effectiveness of marine reserves in rebuilding fishery stocks, providing a significant demonstration of their ability to sustain fisheries beyond t...
Marine biotechnology has the potential to address critical future challenges such as sustainable food and energy, new drugs and health treatments, and industrial materials. The European Science Foundation predicts that with the right actions taken now, Europe could become a global leader in marine biotech by 2020.
Researchers found that porous marine particles settle in stratified layers, releasing carbon dioxide through diffusion, affecting global carbon fluxes. This discovery could improve estimates of ocean carbon exports.
Mandy Karnauskas, a Ph.D. student at the Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science, won the best student poster award for her research on marine reserves in Belize to understand why fishers and scientists often have different perceptions of change in fish abundance around these areas.
A widely used biodiversity indicator in fisheries is found to be an ineffective guide to trends in marine ecosystems, according to a new study published in Nature. The researchers recommend more direct monitoring and the development of trend-detection methods to better assess the impacts of fishing on marine biodiversity.
Scientists urge increased focus and better management for reefs south of the Great Barrier Reef and WA tropical coral zone, critical refuges for northern tropical marine life. The Coffs Harbour Declaration highlights seven priorities to improve subtropical marine environment management.
Scientists have found toxic levels of chemicals near the Deepwater Horizon oil spill site, with PAH concentrations extending up to 13 kilometers from the wellhead. A global study on moisture recycling reveals that water can originate from distant regions or be recycled within a region, affecting global water resources.
A new assessment tool measures environmental performance of global aquaculture, revealing that large-scale farming still causes significant ecological damage. Despite best practices, industrial-scale aquaculture magnifies environmental degradation, especially in Asian countries with rapidly increasing production.
Researchers have discovered the world's largest marine virus, Cafeteria roenbergensis virus, which has a genome larger than some cellular organisms. This complex 'mimi-like' virus infects an ecologically important planktonic predator and challenges the traditional boundary between living and non-living entities.
The new IMOS ocean-observing array will use advanced technologies like autonomous floats, marine mammals with satellite tags, and underwater gliders to study the open ocean. This data will help scientists understand how the ocean's physical properties influence the marine ecosystem.
Researchers are studying whether electromagnetic fields from marine power devices affect the behavior of various aquatic animals, including fish and invertebrates. The study uses specially designed coils to create a magnetic field similar to those produced by ocean waves, tides, currents, and rivers.
More than 100 marine scientists advocate for an integrated European network of long-term marine observatories to provide reliable data for sustainable use of seas. The network aims to reduce uncertainty about sea-level rise and its impact on coastal defences, saving millions annually.
A new PLoS collection highlights ways scientists use a large tracking network to trace marine mammal movement. The system detects animals as they cross detection lines, providing data on their behavior and survival.
Researchers at Purdue University and the University of South Carolina have discovered a unique adhesive material in oysters that differs from other marine organisms. The cement, composed largely of chalky calcium carbonate, plays a crucial role in forming massive reef complexes.
The new podcast series aims to raise awareness about the importance of ocean environments and the threats they face. The shows will explore various topics, including climate change, tracking sharks, whaling, and overfishing.
NSU researchers are conducting four projects studying the oil spill's effects on marine life and ecosystems. They aim to better understand potential and actual impacts to economically and biologically valuable marine ecosystems.
Six University of Miami students were selected as 2010 NOAA/Ernest F. Hollings Scholars, achieving this prestigious recognition for the second consecutive year. The recipients are recognized for their academic excellence and potential to pursue careers in oceanic and atmospheric science.
The Census of Marine Life has published an inventory of species distribution and diversity in 25 biologically representative regions around the world. Crustaceans comprise about one-fifth of all species found, with only two percent being vertebrates.
The deep open ocean is vastly under-explored due to the long-held belief that life in this area was confined primarily to the surface and near the sea bed. New research mapped marine species records and found most knowledge comes from shallow waters or ocean floor, revealing uncounted animals living without hard surfaces.
The Census of Marine Life has published a historic roll call of species in 25 biologically representative regions, revealing the most diverse marine ecosystems. The study found that Australian and Japanese waters are home to over 33,000 species, with mollusks and crustaceans making up half of all known species.
A new study reveals a global decline of marine phytoplankton over the past century, with declines of about 1% per year. The decline is strongly correlated with rising sea surface temperatures and changing ocean conditions.
A team of scientists mapped global diversity patterns for over 11,000 marine species, finding temperature strongly linked to biodiversity and high overlap between areas of human impact and diversity hotspots. The study suggests ocean warming may greatly affect the distribution of life in the sea.
Scientists propose a multi-platform approach using automated technologies like glider robots and sensors on ships of opportunity to observe the polar oceans. This could help reduce uncertainty about the effects of warming on marine ecosystems worldwide.
A Tufts University study sheds light on how marine animals like Galapagos iguanas survive stress, revealing the crucial role of negative feedback in coping with 'fight or flight' responses. The research also has implications for understanding wildlife responses to environmental disasters and oil spills.
The Biodiversity of Saba Bank collection provides critical information on the benthic communities and reef fish that inhabit the Saba Bank. The research reveals six new species potentially new to science collected from one of the largest coral reefs in the Caribbean, highlighting the need for marine protected areas to protect this uniq...
Mediterranean red coral populations thrive in three decades-old Marine Protected Areas, but future conservation efforts may be needed to ensure species resilience. The areas have proven effective in conserving this slow-growing species.
A new understanding of marine ecology has emerged, revealing that mussel populations are connected across vast distances through communication. This discovery has significant implications for the design of marine reserves and fisheries management.
A new photoprotein, proteorhodopsin, allows marine bacteria to harness sunlight energy and survive periods of starvation. This process enhances their survival in nutrient-depleted ocean environments.
Researchers have discovered a new species of bacterium, Endoxenoturbella lovénii, found only in the Gullmarsfjord north of Gothenburg. The bacterium is an endosymbiotic prokaryote living in the gut of a unique marine worm called Xenoturbella.
Marine Roseobacter clade decline linked to ocean acidification may impact global climate system and socio-economic consequences. Ocean acidification could significantly affect fish stocks and coral reef erosion.
A recent study has discovered that certain marine bacteria can form biofilms on plastic fragments, potentially breaking them down. This research could lead to new methods for cleaning up microplastics and reducing their impact on marine life.
The Pew Environment Group announced five individuals receiving the 2010 Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation to address pressing challenges in ocean conservation. The Fellows will focus on projects such as reducing seabird bycatch, protecting coral reefs, and enhancing shellfish management.
A comprehensive study found that community involvement is crucial for the success of marine reserves. Residents' compliance with reserve rules was linked to ecological health and fish stocks. Community participation in setting up and monitoring reserves is vital to their success.
A recent study found that successful marine reserves had a positive impact on fish stocks, with human population pressure being a critical factor. Local involvement in research and management, as well as social, political, and economic factors, were also key to making reserves successful.
A special issue of PNAS explores the latest science on marine reserves, revealing that well-designed reserves can benefit both fish and fishermen. Studies show that reserves can play a major role in reducing cumulative impacts on marine ecosystems in areas like the South China Sea and Coral Triangle.
Stanford biologist Steve Palumbi has discovered a species of coral that can survive in high water temperatures, offering hope for marine species struggling with climate change. The most effective marine protected areas balance preservation of species with human needs, presenting a challenge to designers.
The study reveals rapid increases in fish populations inside no-take reserves, improving ecosystem health and resilience. Additionally, the reserve network helps threatened species like dugongs and marine turtles.
The old balkanized approach to ocean management has failed to protect ocean ecosystems; marine spatial planning provides a comprehensive map of human uses and natural resources. Effective ocean management requires considering all ecosystem elements, and the AAAS symposium will showcase innovative techniques for mapping spatial impacts.
Research by Patrick Christie at the University of Washington found that local people's involvement and leadership are crucial for successful conservation efforts. Participatory planning, collaboration between communities and governance conditions play a vital role in managing conflicts and maintaining the health of marine ecosystems.
Scientists have identified over 6,000 unique species on the sea-floor, with many adapting to changing environmental conditions. Krill populations are reducing due to decreasing sea-ice cover, shifting the food web balance and affecting penguins that breed on the ice.
Researchers at UF's College of Veterinary Medicine have discovered that dolphins can harbor multiple infections of apillomaviruses, which are linked to cervical cancer in humans. The study suggests that dolphins may be an ideal model for studying human cervical cancer due to their genetic similarity to humans.
Increasing ocean acidity poses a significant threat to marine species, with potentially profound ramifications for food chains. A UAB expert warns that the effects of climate change on the world's oceans are undeniable and urgent.
A recent scientific conference highlighted the effects of unseasonal summer storms on UK marine life, including a surge in deadly jellyfish and rare seabird sightings. The event brought together representatives from various sectors to discuss conservation measures and environmental change.
A study in Alaska's Gulf of Alaska has found that glacial watersheds export biologically active organic matter to marine ecosystems, supporting higher organisms. As glaciers recede, this valuable food source will decrease, potentially impacting marine productivity.
The MARES project aims to develop comprehensive ecosystem models and reach consensus on feasible management goals for the South Florida coastal ecosystem. Human dimensions science will be incorporated to study societal processes and their impact on ecosystem sustainability.