A comprehensive book Shifting Sands examines Maryland's Coastal Bays ecosystem, detailing its six subwatersheds, history, and ecology. The study synthesizes decades of research to provide a holistic understanding of the region's fragile lagoons.
The first comprehensive global assessment reveals accelerating losses of seagrasses, threatening the health and sustainability of coastal ecosystems. Seagrasses disappear at rates similar to coral reefs and tropical rainforests, with a loss of 110 square-kilometers per year since 1980.
A new study finds nearly a doubling of illegal fishing in the Northeast multispecies groundfish fishery, with 12-24% annual harvest taken illegally. The study recommends a 'smart compliance policy' to combat noncompliance and protect fish stocks.
Reducing both nitrogen and phosphorus is crucial to alleviate eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems. Policymakers must adopt holistic approaches to address the root causes of pollution, as single-nutrient reduction strategies can lead to downstream problems.
International experts cite nutrient pollution as a major force behind increased harmful algal bloom events. The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science presents a compilation of research highlighting the role of nutrient pollution in driving these events.
Researchers found that juvenile bluefin tuna from both regions return to their birthplace to spawn, contradicting previous assumptions about fish migration patterns. This study has significant implications for managing bluefin tuna fisheries in the Mediterranean and North Atlantic.
Dr. Elizabeth North's research team will use in-water sampling and computer modeling to identify factors influencing oyster larvae transport in the Choptank River. The study aims to enhance oyster restoration efforts throughout the entire Chesapeake Bay.
A UMCES-led research team has developed a new technology to quantify the environmental benefits of urban stream restoration, showing that stream restoration techniques can double nitrogen removal rates by microbes and reduce nitrogen levels in ground water. This breakthrough will help improve water quality in urban environments.
Researchers propose alternative explanation for increase in skates and dogfish populations, suggesting migration from connected waters. This hypothesis challenges current management approach, emphasizing ecosystem-based fisheries management.
A new framework prioritizes stream restoration efforts to reduce nitrogen flowing downstream, combining innovative techniques with traditional measures. Small streams with high nitrogen loads are targeted for restoration approaches increasing in-stream carbon availability and contact between water and sediments.
A global analysis of climate change's impact on rivers indicates that many will require significant management interventions to protect ecosystems and people. The study projects changes in river discharge under different climate and water withdrawal scenarios, highlighting basins at risk of water stress or increased flood flows.
Researchers demonstrated a direct link between mercury concentrations in fish and changes in atmospheric deposition, revealing rapid responses over the first three years of study. The study's results show the benefits of regulating mercury emissions and near-term effectiveness of emission reductions.
Oyster larvae are attracted by adult scent but face a nearly 90% death risk if caught by cannibalistic adults. Despite this, more than 95% of an oyster reef is safe for larvae settlement, driving the evolution of gregarious settlement cues.
Seagrasses are critical for coastal ecosystems, providing habitat for aquatic life and mitigating pollution impact. A global conservation effort is needed to protect these habitats.
Hurricane Isabel caused widespread devastation to the Chesapeake Bay in 2003, with storm surges and floodwaters destroying homes and infrastructure. However, the event also had a positive impact on the Bay's ecosystem, with increased recruitment of juvenile Atlantic croaker.
The study reveals that nutrient enrichment has reduced sea grass beds and lowered dissolved oxygen concentrations in the Chesapeake Bay. Revitalizing habitats such as sea grass beds, oyster reefs, and tidal marshes may lead to substantial benefits toward recovery from nutrient enrichment.
Historical records show salinity concentrations increasing in groundwater and aquifers due to urbanization and deicer use. High chloride levels can induce mortality in aquatic animals and alter plant composition.