Measuring sea-level rise in the Falklands
Sea levels around Falkland Islands rose by 0.75mm/year between 1842 and early 1980s, but accelerated to 2.5mm/year since 1992, consistent with global warming observations
Search results for “Oceanography”
1,000+ results for "Oceanography"
Coral records show ocean thermocline rise with global warming
Researchers used corals as a proxy to study the shift in the ocean's thermocline, finding it has risen since the mid-1970s. The findings support climate model predictions and suggest a potential impact on global climate and oceanography.
LSU researchers receive grant to determine if salt was mover and shaker in ancient society
Researchers investigate a massive salt industry in Belize's Paynes Creek National Park and its submergence by sea-level rise. They aim to reconstruct the ancient landscape and explore possible inland supply routes for the Maya civilization.
Scripps researchers, UCSD chemists to create center devoted to chemistry's influence on climate
The Center for Aerosol Impacts on Climate and the Environment (CAICE) will use a wave tank simulator to study aerosol particles' impact on climate. Researchers will add various atmosphere-changing ingredients to measure effects of different variables, aiming to improve representation of aerosol mechanisms in global climate models.
Call to heal the world's coral reefs
Marine scientists urge urgent action to save coral reefs from climate change, overfishing, and pollution. They propose management advice to empower local communities and control human impacts.
UW-built device reveals invisible world teeming with microscopic algae
A new device, SeaFlow, detects and tracks microscopic algae that take up 50% of the world's ocean carbon dioxide. This discovery challenges traditional knowledge of ocean ecosystems and highlights the importance of monitoring phytoplankton communities for global carbon cycle understanding.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2010
Census of Marine Life celebrates 'decade of discovery'
The Census of Marine Life has completed a ten-year initiative to describe ocean life distribution and diversity, with UAF scientists contributing significantly. New species have been discovered in the Arctic Ocean and coastal regions, shedding light on climate change impacts.
URI oceanographer to lead return visit to least inhabited place on Earth
A team of scientists, led by URI oceanography professor Steven D'Hondt, will embark on a nine-week expedition to the South Pacific Gyre to drill into the basaltic basement and search for evidence of life. The team aims to test whether microbial communities can be sustained by hydrogen released from radioactive water decay.
LSU researchers receive 2 NSF grants to study oil and dispersant contamination
Two LSU research groups investigate the impact of oil and dispersants on the Louisiana salt marsh ecosystem and genetic structure of wildlife populations. The studies aim to understand short- and long-term effects of chemicals on natural systems.
Scripps and Trius team up to develop new antibiotics with US Department of Defense grant
Trius will use its proprietary Focused Antisense Screening Technology (FAST) to identify antibacterial compounds from marine natural product libraries discovered by Scripps researchers. The goal is to develop novel antibiotics directed against microorganisms causing serious infections.
UCSB, Texas A&M scientists document fate of deep hydrocarbon plumes in Gulf oil spill
A team of scientists led by David Valentine and John Kessler studied the behavior of methane and other natural gases in the Gulf of Mexico after the Deepwater Horizon disaster. They found that propane and ethane were responsible for most of the respiration and oxygen loss observed in deep plumes, with butane accounting for the remainder.
Human impacts on the deep seafloor
A new study estimated human activities' impact on the North East Atlantic deep seafloor, finding bottom trawling has a greater physical footprint than other major activities. The research highlights the need for better data collection and management to protect seafloor ecosystems.
Texas A&M researcher returns to Deepwater Horizon site
A Texas A&M University oceanographer is studying the impact of subsurface hydrocarbons near the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The research aims to understand the fate of the oil, its effects on marine life, and the role of methane in the global carbon cycle.
Report issued today examines improving long-term climate forecasts
A new report examines current capabilities for making climate predictions and identifies opportunities for improvement. Improvements in observational capabilities, statistical models, and data assimilation systems are needed to better understand key processes that could help improve forecasts.
SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateSep 8, 2010
Potomac River: 10-fold increase in native submerged vegetation reflects improved water quality
Native submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) cover increased tenfold and diversity of plant species rose as nutrients declined and water clarity improved. Improved restoration efforts have boosted SAV abundance, benefiting ecosystem health.
Seafood stewardship questionable: UBC-Scripps experts
A group of experts from UBC and Scripps Institution criticizes the MSC for failing to promote sustainable fishing practices, citing concerns over declining fish populations and high-impact methods like bottom trawling.
Metcalf Institute wins NSF grant to help journalism and communication of oil spill research
The Metcalf Institute for Marine & Environmental Reporting has received a $199,909 NSF grant to enhance the communication of oil spill research. The project will bring together scientists and science communicators to clarify early scientific findings about the oil spill's impacts.
Geo-engineering and sea-level rise over the 21st century
International research suggests that sea levels will be 30-70 centimeters higher by 2100 even with geo-engineering efforts. However, large-scale actions like sulfur dioxide injections or mirror orbits pose significant challenges. Bioenergy with carbon storage (BECS) appears to be a more desirable option.
SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2010
Scientists map origin of large, underwater hydrocarbon plume in Gulf
Researchers use advanced technologies to map the origin of a massive underwater hydrocarbon plume in the Gulf of Mexico, confirming it came from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The plume is 22 miles long and 3,000 feet deep, and its composition suggests it has been persisting for longer than expected.
NSU scientists receive BP money to research oil spill's impact
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.
World-renowned experts to lead discussion with the chemistry community on climate change
A panel of four climate experts will review current state of climate science and discuss observed changes. Chemistry plays a crucial role in resolving the climate change challenge, with significant impacts on water systems, agriculture, human health, and more.
Limiting ocean acidification under global change
Researchers used computer simulations to predict the impact of mitigation policies on ocean acidification. A peak year of emissions and post-peak reduction rates significantly influence ocean acidity increases by 2100. The study suggests that substantial emission reductions need to occur as soon as possible.
LSU researcher receives NSF rapid response grant to study health of marshes impacted by oil
Researchers at LSU and two other universities are analyzing the impact of oil on Louisiana's marshlands using water samples and advanced spectroscopic analysis. The study aims to understand the molecular-level effects of oil contamination on coastal health.
The jellyfish-like salp: Most efficient filter-feeder in the deep, scientists discover
Researchers find salps capture food particles as small as bacteria and phytoplankton, making them hardier and more plentiful than thought. This allows them to play a crucial role in carbon cycling by consuming the entire 'microbial loop' and sinking large amounts of carbon to the ocean bottom.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2010
Georgia Tech awarded a $20M Center for Chemical Innovation from NSF and NASA
Researchers will focus on exploring chemical processes that enable the spontaneous formation of functional polymers, such as proteins and DNA. The five-year grant will support research in over 15 laboratories at top institutions, aiming to understand the chemistry behind life's origins.
Ice-free ocean may not absorb CO2, a component in global warming
A recent study led by University of Georgia biogeochemist Wei-Jun Cai found that the Canada Basin's potential as a carbon dioxide sink is short-lived and minor. The research indicates that the waters become acidic and unsuitable for calcium-carbonate shell-bearing marine organisms due to rapid CO2 uptake.
Study finds black carbon implicated in global warming
A recent study conducted by a University of Iowa professor and his colleagues found that increasing the ratio of black carbon to sulfate in the atmosphere increases climate warming. Black carbon from diesel engine exhaust and cooking fires was found to be more efficient at warming than biomass burning plumes.
New study reveals decline of marine phytoplankton over the past century
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.
Engineered coral pigment helps scientists to observe protein movement
Scientists have engineered a variant of fluorescent protein from reef coral to observe protein movement in live cells. The newly created mIrisFP has excellent properties as a genetically encoded marker protein, enabling the study of dynamical processes within live cells at high spatial resolution.
7 California universities/NOAA to study climate, marine ecosystems
NOAA has selected Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego, to lead a new research partnership, CIMEC, to study climate change and coastal ecosystems. The institute will focus on ecosystem-based management of fisheries and continue the longstanding work of JIMO in climate and ocean sciences.
Breakthrough achieved in explaining why tectonic plates move the way they do
Researchers at Monash University and Scripps Institution of Oceanography developed a new mathematical scaling theory to explain the global motions of tectonic plates. The theory demonstrates that the velocities of plates and boundaries depend on subduction zone size and presence of subduction zone edges.
Footloose glaciers crack up
A new study by Scripps Institution of Oceanography reveals that floating glaciers produce larger icebergs than grounded cousins and behave erratically. This is the first detailed observation of a glacier transitioning from grounded to floating.
Marine scientists return with rare creatures from the deep
Researchers found diverse marine life on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, including a missing evolutionary link between backboned and invertebrate animals. The team discovered three new species with different colors and shapes, as well as sea cucumbers with unique swimming abilities.
The long-term fate of the oil spill in the Atlantic
Researchers used computer simulations to study the possible spread of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Atlantic over a year. The study found that about 20% of the initial particles had been transported through the Straits of Florida and into the open Atlantic by October 2010.
Coccolithophore growth and calcification -- a possible role for iron
A study found that iron availability plays a crucial role in controlling coccolithophore growth and calcification. Coccolithophores are globally important species of marine algae responsible for massive blooms in oceans worldwide.
Nutrients, viruses and the biological carbon pump
A new study suggests that adding nutrients to the sea could lower viral infection rates among phytoplankton, enhancing the biological carbon pump. This process involves transferring carbon from the atmosphere to the deep ocean, potentially helping mitigate global warming.
Ecological change in the abyss -- the Amperima event
Scientists have monitored rapid faunal changes in a deep-sea community off Ireland's coast, where sea cucumber populations surged in abundance. Climate-driven fluctuations in organic matter supply and nutrient quality may have triggered these events.
Underwater gliders may change how scientists track fish
Underwater gliders are being tested for tracking tagged fish in Alaska, providing a new method for scientists. The technology allows researchers to follow the movements of tagged fish over long distances and gather oceanographic information simultaneously.
Ocean stirring and plankton patchiness
Computer simulations reveal how ocean stirring and mixing create filamentary structures in plankton patches, resisting dispersal. The research, supported by the Natural Environmental Research Council and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, provides new insights into plankton patchiness.
New research sheds light on Antarctica's melting Pine Island Glacier
Scientists have discovered a 300m high ridge on the sea floor beneath Pine Island Glacier, causing it to accelerate its flow into the sea. The glacier's thinning ice allows warm ocean water to melt the underside, contributing nearly 10% of global sea level rise.
Retooling the ocean conveyor belt
Researchers are rethinking the ocean conveyor belt model due to its limitations in accounting for eddies and wind field. The overturning of ocean waters may vary between ocean basins and be influenced by climate change, highlighting the need for a revised understanding of this critical process.
Bacterioplankton responses to desert dust in the (sub)tropical northeast Atlantic
Researchers found that Saharan dust inputs favor SAR11 bacteria over Prochlorococcus, potentially altering oceanic communities. Dust nutrients like iron boost phytoplankton growth and influence bacterial populations.
Oil spill reshapes sweeping new study of oyster reefs -- Virginia to Florida
A new study is exploring the effects of the Gulf oil spill on oyster reefs along the US East Coast, with a focus on guiding future restoration efforts. The research aims to understand how predators and climate influence estuarine health in natural oyster reefs.
Deep subduction of the Indian continental crust beneath Asia
Researchers have discovered that the Indian continental crust was forced down to a depth of at least 200 km under the Asian plate during the Himalayan collision. This finding is significant as it contradicts previous estimates and challenges fundamental parameters of Himalayan tectonics.
Study begins on air-sea exchanges and their influence on climate
Scientists launch Waves, Aerosols and Gas Exchange Study (WAGES) to investigate air-sea gas exchange and its impact on climate. The two-year project uses the Royal Research Ship James Clark Ross to collect continuous measurements of carbon dioxide, sea-spray aerosol, heat, moisture, and momentum.
Texas A&M professor heads out to study Gulf oil spill with first NSF grant
A Texas A&M University oceanographer is leading a team to investigate the massive amounts of methane in the Gulf oil spill. The research aims to understand how this potent greenhouse gas affects oxygen levels and potentially exacerbates 'dead zones.'
Met Office and NOC enhance ocean observatory
The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) has partnered with the Met Office to upgrade the Porcupine Abyssal Plain sustained observatory (PAP-SO), a key European ocean observatory. This collaboration aims to advance scientific knowledge of the ocean and improve climate prediction by integrating meteorological and ocean data.
GSA Special Paper exposes raw beauty of the Bering Glacier system
This interdisciplinary study explores the role of the Bering Glacier system in the northeast Pacific Ocean and global sea level. The book includes contributions from researchers on various disciplines, including glaciology, geology, and ecology.
WHOI study calculates volume and depth of the world's oceans
Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution estimate the world's ocean volume to be 1.332 billion cubic kilometers, a reduction of 5 times the Gulf of Mexico or 500 times the Great Lakes. The study uses satellite measurements to calculate ocean volume and depth, with an accuracy comparable to those of 30 years ago.
Scientists use biomedical technique to image marine worm
Researchers have successfully imaged the internal tissues of a soft-bodied marine worm using micro-computed x-ray tomography (micro-CT) without dissection or destructive methods. This technique allows for high-definition images and three-dimensional rotating views, enabling detailed study of functional anatomy.
Navy awards new science ship to Scripps Institution of Oceanography
The US Navy has selected Scripps Institution of Oceanography to operate a new scientific research vessel, advancing science and education in the decades ahead. The Ocean Class ship will lead ocean expeditions advancing knowledge on global climate change, submarine warfare, and more.
American Society for Microbiology to honor Scripps, Claude ZoBell
The American Society for Microbiology will honor Scripps Institution of Oceanography pioneer Claude ZoBell's contributions to marine microbiology. The event, held on May 22, recognizes ZoBell's pioneering research career and his work laying the foundation for the field.
Georgia Tech Savannah professor named as 2010 Young Investigator Award recipient
Dr. Fumin Zhang, a Georgia Tech Savannah professor, has received the 2010 Young Investigator Award from The Office of Naval Research for his research on unmanned robots and mobile sensor networks in oceanography and robotics/control engineering.
Scientists outline strategy to limit global warming
Researchers recommend stabilizing carbon dioxide concentrations, fashioning warming-neutral pollution laws, and achieving immediate cooling through reductions in greenhouse gases. The proposed strategies aim to reduce the probability of reaching the temperature threshold to less than 10 percent before 2050.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2010
Scripps researchers outline strategy to limit global warming
Researchers propose a multi-faceted approach to avoid exceeding the 2-degree C temperature threshold, including reducing methane, hydrofluorocarbons, and other greenhouse gases. They advocate for aggressive simultaneous pursuit of strategies to stabilize CO2 concentrations and implement warming-neutral pollution laws.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2010
Scientists discover underwater asphalt volcanoes
Underwater asphalt volcanoes, 10 miles off Santa Barbara coast, discovered by scientists funded by NSF, are 700 feet deep and 1 km apart. The structures were formed 30,000-40,000 years ago from petroleum flow, and were a prolific source of methane.
Bone-eating worms 30 million years old
Researchers at Kiel University discovered fossil whale bones with 0.5mm circular boreholes matching those of living Osedax worms, dating to 30 million years ago. The findings confirm that boneworms are at least 30 million years old and were feeding on whale bones during this period.
Deepest core drilled from Antarctic Peninsula; may contain glacial stage ice
Researchers from Ohio State University have successfully drilled the deepest core in the Antarctic Peninsula, reaching a length of 445.6 meters. The core may contain ice dating back to the last ice age, providing valuable insights into past global climate changes.
British scientific expedition discovers world's deepest known undersea volcanic vents
A British scientific expedition has discovered the world's deepest undersea volcanic vents, 5000 meters deep in the Caribbean. The team used advanced underwater technology to film and survey the seafloor, revealing slender spires of copper and iron ores erupting with superheated water.
First animals to live without oxygen discovered
Researchers have discovered small animals in the Mediterranean Sea that live their entire lives without oxygen and reproduce despite a complete absence of oxygen. These multicellular organisms possess organelles resembling hydrogenosomes found in anaerobic environments, challenging our current understanding of life on Earth.