A group of marine scientists, including Stony Brook University's Oliver Shipley, is calling on governments to establish larger spatial protections for sharks in the Greater Caribbean. The region boasts high marine biodiversity and contains many migratory shark species, but has been overlooked in conservation efforts.
Marine biologists found that redundancy in urchin predators and protection afforded to them help keep sea urchin populations in check, particularly in protected areas. The study highlights an underappreciated benefit of marine reserves and offers a new perspective on strategies to manage ecosystems for resilience.
A global distribution map of fish genetic diversity has been created, revealing uneven distribution across marine and freshwater species. Temperature plays a key role in shaping genetic diversity among marine fish, while habitat complexity and changes over time are crucial for freshwater species.
Marine bacteria colonize microplastics, using them as artificial reefs, while some diatoms exhibit a preference for specific plastic types. Microplastics may serve as vehicles for toxic organisms, affecting marine life.
A new study describes the arrival of the potentially invasive bryozoan Membranipora membranacea on Antarctic coasts via macroalgae, highlighting the vulnerability of Antarctic ecosystems to non-native species. The discovery raises concerns about the potential ecological impact and dramatic changes to local marine communities.
A new study published in Frontiers in Marine Science found that eDNA (environmental DNA) can identify more species of marine vertebrates than traditional trawl nets. The research team collected water samples and analyzed the DNA to detect the presence of important species such as great white sharks and salmon.
Researchers warn of potential negative impacts of offshore renewable energy on marine life, including head trauma and hearing loss. The study suggests that consideration should be given to the impact of technologies like wind turbines and wave energy converters on marine animals before implementation.
A new European research project, HOTMIC, aims to investigate the fate of microplastic in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study's lead researcher suggests that microplastic particles may be transported by microorganisms or marine animals, which could have a significant impact on the marine ecosystem.
The MOVE-ON project aims to produce sustainable development and ecosystem management models for EU overseas territories in the Caribbean and Pacific oceans. Researchers will investigate ecological conditions and develop conceptual models of ecosystem services provision according to the quality of marine ecosystems.
The Marine Biological Laboratory team has used innovative microscopy to reveal the structure of microbial communities coating microplastic samples from various ocean sites. These biofilms can influence the microplastics' fate and interact with other organisms, posing a threat to marine survival.
Researchers found that a decline in ocean oxygen can break down feedback mechanisms controlling the marine nitrogen cycle, which is essential for all forms of life. The team used a data-constrained earth system model to show that extreme deoxygenation can lead to a collapse of the ocean's bioavailable nitrogen inventory.
Researchers at FAU Harbor Branch and Wageningen University developed a breakthrough in marine sponge cell culture, demonstrating rapid cell division in nine species. This discovery forms the basis for developing marine invertebrate cell models to understand early animal evolution and determine the role of secondary metabolites.
Researchers found that 44% of colonies of the invasive species Didemnum vexillum are formed by gene chimera, which could promote genetic diversity and colonization success. The creation of chimera may also be a mechanism to increase adaptive success in new environments.
A team of scientists has discovered 35 species of marine fungi with unconventional cell division cycles, challenging classical models. The study aims to understand how fungi interact with environments and potentially uncover new biology in the vast marine biosphere.
Researchers used multifactor models to examine the impact of climate change on marine species in the US Northeast Shelf. The study found that more than 50% of species would experience a decline in habitat space, posing serious trouble for certain species like the Atlantic cod.
Research found that sulphur production by tiny marine algae decreased during glacial periods, challenging conventional wisdom. This decrease in sulphur emissions may be linked to changes in climate rather than just the amount of dust in the air, suggesting a closer relationship between phytoplankton and climate.
A new study from Oregon State University found that underwater soundscapes varied widely across four protected marine sites, driven by differences in animal vocalization rates, human activity and weather. The study provides a baseline for these regions and can be used for comparison over time.
Scientists have found that severe marine heatwaves can lead to the death of coral animals themselves, causing the underlying skeleton to decay rapidly. This new understanding highlights the need for urgent action to preserve coral reefs and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Researchers discovered that reactive oxygen species, once thought to cause cellular damage, actually protect phytoplankton cells from overproducing a compound used for photosynthesis. This finding challenges conventional wisdom and may have implications for understanding ocean resilience to climate change.
A new study published in Journal of Applied Ecology provides a method for verifying the effectiveness of marine protected areas (MPAs) by comparing data collected before and after their implementation. This approach helps scientists determine whether adjustments are needed to improve the impact of MPAs on fish populations.
Researchers have deciphered how marine bacteria degrade algae biomass, unlocking potential for sustainable chemistry and bioplastics. The study reveals complex biochemical pathways and identifies new enzymes for targeted use in fermentations and product synthesis.
A research team has elucidated the complex degradation pathway of the polysaccharide Ulvan from marine algae, revealing the biochemical function of 12 enzymes. The findings have significant implications for future biotechnological applications and improve our understanding of the marine carbon cycle.
An international team, led by Australian researchers, has published a first-of-its-kind study assessing the major drivers of global marine heatwaves. They found that known climate phenomena, such as El Niño and North Atlantic Oscillation, can increase the odds of marine heatwaves in other regions thousands of kilometres away.
Researchers found that marine oil snow transfers oil's negative impacts from the water column to seafloor sediments, delivering oxygenated compounds to organisms in the sediments. This process can increase toxicity in deep-sea ecosystems.
Commercial fishers believe they can play a key role in reducing marine litter, with many already participating in initiatives like Fishing for Litter. The study found that fishers are passionate about their seas and believe collective action is needed to address the issue.
Researchers found that a specific gene, Fads2, helps marine stickleback synthesize DHA, essential for development and health. The ability to utilize this nutrient determines where fish colonize freshwater habitats.
Researchers developed a new method to estimate cumulative human impact for individual species, revealing threatened seahorses in data-poor regions. The study found China, Southeast Asia, and Europe as major threat epicentres for global seahorse populations.
Lab tests show plastic chemicals impair growth and function of ocean's most abundant photosynthetic bacteria, Prochlorococcus. Exposure to plastics alters gene expression, potentially harming entire ecosystem.
A rare marine ammonite shell, identified as a juvenile from the Late Albian to Early Cenomanian age of the Cretaceous Period, is preserved in Burmese amber. The discovery suggests that the amber was formed on a beach with resin-producing trees close enough to the water to capture both terrestrial insects and remains of marine organisms.
Marine invertebrates' vision is highly sensitive to oxygen levels, with reduced oxygen causing 60-100% vision loss. Most species recover visual function when oxygen levels are restored.
A new study reveals that ship traffic in Antarctic waters has increased up to 10-fold since the 1960s, posing a risk of invasive species altering the balance between species. The research informs future conservation management and policy for protecting Antarctica's unique biodiversity.
Marine Skin, a polymer-based material with integrated electronics, revolutionizes sea life monitoring by tracking movement and diving behavior, as well as environmental health. The system can operate at unprecedented depths, with enhanced sensitivity, and plans include additional sensing capabilities.
Dr. Kelly Dorgan received a CAREER grant to study ecosystem engineering and bioturbation rates in marine sediments. She aims to improve nutrient regeneration and predict bioturbation patterns, benefiting ocean health.
A recent study in Aquatic Invasions documents 53 introduced marine animal species on the Galápagos Islands, nearly 10 times more than previously known. The majority of these non-native species are likely arriving through ships from tropical seas, posing concerns for conservation efforts.
A comprehensive analysis of over 11,000 coastal-habitat measurements confirms the nursery function of mangroves and seagrasses, providing key guidance for marine resource managers. The study also finds that other structured habitats, such as coral reefs and oyster reefs, support greater juvenile abundance, growth, and survival.
A comprehensive review of marine mammal noise exposure has yielded new policy recommendations for regulatory agencies worldwide. The panel's report provides guidelines to avoid harm and includes species-specific criteria for noise exposure, based on the latest scientific knowledge.
During the 2014-16 marine heatwave, an unprecedented 37 tropical species were documented in California and Oregon, with many having never been seen so far north before. This shift is attributed to warmer ocean temperatures, which allowed southern species to track northward, adapting to climate change.
Researchers from the University of Plymouth detail a blueprint for city marine parks to connect urban areas with their people and the reciprocal benefits of the marine environment. The study highlights the potential of these parks to contribute to community wellbeing, economic prosperity, and sustainability.
Scientists have discovered biologically active compounds in marine invertebrates that exhibit strong antitumor and antimicrobial properties. These compounds show potential as new treatments for cancer and can also be used to develop effective insecticides.
A recent study by NUS researchers found that microplastics can harbor toxic bacteria capable of causing coral bleaching and triggering wound infections in humans. The study identified over 400 types of bacteria on the plastics, including species that can degrade pollutants and others that cause harm to marine organisms.
A new study reveals that microplastics have been ingested by every marine mammal examined, with synthetic fibers being the primary source. The findings suggest that while the number of particles is relatively low, more research is needed to understand the potential impacts on animal health.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that 78% of marine mammal populations and 75% of sea turtle populations increased significantly after being listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Conservation measures such as tailored species management and fishery regulations appear to have been successful in promoting species recovery.
A £1 million research program is assessing human impacts on the pristine Chagos Archipelago, a remote British Indian Ocean Territory. The study aims to understand how conservation practices can benefit other areas of the marine environment.
New research reveals that marine ammonia oxidizing archaea can use cyanate and urea as alternative energy sources, enhancing their metabolic capabilities. This discovery sheds light on the remarkable adaptability of these microorganisms, which play a key role in the marine nitrogen cycle.
Thaumarchaeota, a key player in the marine nitrogen cycle, can now be shown to utilize organic nitrogen sources like cyanate and urea. This discovery may explain their exceptional success in the oceans. The specific mechanisms behind these organisms' ability to use cyanate are still unknown.
A new 'Go Fish' tool confirms marine species presence in water samples within three days, complementing traditional monitoring systems. Experts at the first US National Conference on Marine Environmental DNA discuss the potential of emerging eDNA science to enhance ocean management and inform policy decisions.
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that drones can be used to count and make species-level identifications of marine megafauna, particularly in shallow marine environments. The technology offers a valuable platform for scientists and conservationists to study populations and inform conservation efforts.
A new study finds that effective management of local issues can mitigate the detrimental impact of future global environmental changes on marine organisms. The research highlights the importance of adjusting regulation associated with oil spill prevention to maximize resilience in marine ecosystems.
Current MPAs in Finland protect only 27% of marine biodiversity, leaving many ecologically important species at risk. Increasing protected areas by just 1% can double conservation of the most important species.
Researchers found that diatom algae blooms produce biotoxins affecting Oikopleura dioica zooplankton development, causing 'golf ball' phenotype and lethal anomalies. The study suggests a potential biomarker for zooplankton response to stress caused by diatoms.
A study identifies marine aggregates as key to removing microplastics from the ocean surface and facilitating their transfer to food webs. Mussels were found to selectively ingest smaller particles with specific shapes, highlighting their picky eating habits.
Researchers found sea snail shells were on average a third smaller and showed visible deterioration under predicted future CO2 levels, impacting thickness, density, and structure. The corrosive effects of ocean acidification threaten the survival of calcified animals like shellfish, which are crucial to coastal marine communities.
Research suggests that Vibrio species have a crucial role in marine organic carbon cycling, particularly in coastal environments. These bacteria can rapidly consume and transform organic matter into cell material and waste products.
The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument is a critical hotspot of biodiversity, with an aerial survey revealing over 600 animal sightings in just four hours. The monument's protected resource status is under review by the Trump administration.
Researchers analyzed ancient marine sediment for effects of Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum on shallow-water communities. The study found that biodiversity loss and ecological restructuring were minor impacts, but some organisms adapted to low-oxygen conditions through microbial symbiosis.
A genome-wide scan reveals the shared loss of Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) gene function across marine mammal lineages, leaving them vulnerable to neurotoxic chemicals. This loss may be related to PON1's role in fatty acid oxidation and poses a significant health risk for marine mammals living near agricultural runoff.
Researchers found that marine mammals lost the functional Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) gene, which protects land-dwelling mammals from pesticides. This loss may have allowed marine mammals to adapt to a marine environment, but also makes them vulnerable to organophosphate poisoning.
Researchers designed and printed soft robotic manipulators for interacting with delicate deep-sea organisms, collecting samples at depths of up to 2224m. The innovative approach enables real-time modification and innovation in understanding fragile marine life.
A PolyU-led project has been awarded a record-breaking HK$47.2 million grant to develop new concrete structures for marine infrastructure, aiming to reduce steel corrosion and environmental pollution. The five-year project will focus on innovative materials and designs, with potential benefits extending to Hong Kong and globally.
Researchers mapped global marine wilderness, finding only 13% of the world's ocean can still be classified as wilderness. The remaining areas are mostly located in remote regions, such as Arctic and Pacific Island nations, while coastal regions have almost no wilderness left. Protecting what remains is crucial to preserve biodiversity.