A new study analyzes geographic biases in telemetry research, finding that most studies are conducted in politically stable, English-speaking countries with high conservation funding. The research emphasizes the need for in-country capacity sharing and collaboration to ensure biodiversity hotspots are not left understudied.
Shedd Aquarium's membership with IUCN marks a significant milestone in its conservation efforts, with contributions including field research, policy initiatives, and educational programs. The aquarium has also partnered with the IUCN Species Survival Commission to establish the Center for Species Survival: Freshwater.
Researchers from Shedd Aquarium tracked queen conch movements to estimate the space needed to protect breeding populations. The study suggests establishing a 330-meter spatial buffer around breeding areas to help protect conch populations and serve as a practical tool for local management.
A new study documents the functional extinction of Acropora corals from Florida's Coral Reef following a record-setting marine heatwave in 2023. The heatwave caused catastrophic mortality rates, leading to a collapse of ecological function and marking what scientists call a functional extinction.
A new study by Shedd Aquarium found that at least 24 species of fish have been documented to breed in the Chicago River, showcasing a remarkable comeback for a once severely polluted river. The research also revealed differences between sites, suggesting opportunities to augment spawning habitats for fishes.
A new study reveals that untreated wastewater released into the Chicago River during extreme rain events significantly alters the freshwater ecosystem. Zooplankton populations disappeared or increased dramatically, affecting the entire food web and potentially infusing harmful chemicals into the water.
A new article suggests that queen conch aquaculture is not a viable solution for repopulating declining populations due to high natural mortality rates. The study recommends prioritizing protection of natural breeding aggregations and implementing proactive fisheries policies instead.
Researchers gather seven years of data on sucker spawning migrations using observations from trained volunteers. The data reveals that temperature is the primary trigger for sucker spawning migration, which can help inform conservation strategies in light of a changing climate.
A new study reveals that breeding queen conch populations within a protected marine reserve in The Bahamas sustain populations beyond the borders of the reserve. The research identifies where additional protections could help ensure the survival of future generations.
Researchers found that natural shorelines support a higher number of fish species and abundance compared to armored shores. The study suggests de-arming and restoring shorelines can aid aquatic biodiversity.
Scientists detect Otariid gammaherpesvirus 1 (OtGHV1) and a novel virus Otariid gammaherpesvirus 8 (OtGHV8) in South American sea lions and fur seals, highlighting the importance of continued research into animal health and ecosystem dynamics. The discovery underscores the complexity of viral ecology in pinniped populations.