A recent study reveals how animal agriculture companies shape public discourse and policymaking in their favor, downplaying their role in climate change. Industry-funded efforts have been bolstered by collaborations with academic researchers, hindering meaningful action on climate change mitigation.
A new satellite mapping technique can aid in coral reef protection and restoration efforts by identifying areas of high habitat diversity, which are also home to high species diversity. The study found that these maps can be used as a proxy for biodiversity, guiding ecosystem protection and restoration.
A new study by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School and NOAA finds that South Florida's inshore reefs are less vulnerable to ocean acidification than previously thought. The research highlights the importance of preserving seagrass meadows to mitigate climate-related threats to coral reefs.
A recent study discovered that certain protists within the coral microbiome can inform scientists about a coral's ability to survive heat stress. The researchers found that parasitic single-celled protists are more common in corals that survive heat-stress, while Corallicolids are more common in corals that die from heat-stress.
A recent study assesses the perspectives of 76 diverse South Florida climate adaptation professionals, highlighting a growing consensus on the inevitability of climate mobilities. The study reveals concerns about distributional inequities, socio-cultural disruptions, and financial disparities arising from climate-driven relocations.
A new study by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School found that carbon dioxide becomes more potent as climate changes, increasing its heat-trapping effect. This means that future CO2 increases will provide a more potent warming effect on climate than past increases.
The University of Miami Rosenstiel School will conduct multi-stressor experiments on 16 key reef species to assess the impacts of ocean warming, acidification, and hypoxia on South Florida's coastal and marine ecosystems. The project aims to characterize the effects of climate change stressors under present and future scenarios.
Researchers found that human-induced aerosol emissions largely drive temperature fluctuations in the tropical Atlantic Ocean, impacting Sahel rainfall and hurricane formation. The study's results suggest a correlation between reduced aerosol emissions and increased Atlantic hurricane activity and Sahel rainfall.
The University of Miami Rosenstiel School has upgraded its Barbados Atmospheric Chemistry Observatory to collect more accurate data on Saharan dust particles affecting the Caribbean region. The observatory now includes state-of-the-art instruments to study dust's impact on clouds, climate and air quality.
Researchers at University of Miami and UC Irvine develop PRIMo to model flooding scenarios, enabling stakeholders to explore benefits and drawbacks of potential response measures. The project aims to address social inequalities in flood adaptation, informing action plans for local governments.
A new species of marine cryptofauna, Gnathia jimmybuffetti, was discovered in the Florida Keys. The roughly three-millimeter-long isopod has been characterized using photomicrographs and genetic sequencing, providing valuable insights into coral reef biodiversity and parasite impact.
A new study published by scientists at the University of Miami found that Miami residents may experience temperatures 6 degrees Fahrenheit higher on average than NOAA's official reported values, which can feel 11°F higher with humidity. The research team analyzed temperature and humidity data from low-cost sensors set up in outdoor loc...
Researchers found that corals within the Port of Miami's highly urbanized environment exhibit remarkable persistence despite poor water quality, excess nutrients, high temperatures, and low pH levels. The study demonstrates surprising resilience that can teach us about the future of coral reef ecosystems.
A new study analyzed the 2022 Tongan volcanic eruption, finding it triggered a mega-tsunami with waves up to 45 meters high, which claimed few lives due to the location and COVID-19 pandemic efforts
A new study found that some coral reefs in the Eastern Pacific could maintain high coral cover into the 2060s by shuffling symbiotic algae communities. The reefs predominantly built by corals in the genus Pocillopora and hosting heat-tolerant alga Durusdinium glynnii are better equipped to survive and maintain high levels of coral cover.
A new subspecies of bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus nuuanu, has been identified in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. This subspecies is smaller than other common bottlenose dolphins and prefers deep offshore waters between southern Baja California and the Galapagos Islands.
Researchers from University of Miami Rosenstiel School found that fish larvae use external directional cues for orientation, contrary to previous assumption that they rely on internal cues. This discovery offers insights into understanding marine fish dispersal, protected areas and population connectivity.
A new study found that 70% of Florida’s reefs are experiencing net loss of reef habitat due to erosion. The research highlights the need for enhanced management practices and coral restoration efforts in Florida.
A new study suggests that ships may be spreading a deadly coral disease across Florida and the Caribbean. Researchers found that transport through ship ballast water could contribute to disease spread.
Researchers at University of Miami Rosenstiel School used climate model to investigate temperature changes in subpolar North Atlantic region. The study found that human-driven atmospheric changes are the cause of a warming hole, not a slowdown of ocean circulation.
Researchers found that sublethal levels of crude oil exposure in popular sport fish like mahi-mahi leads to altered behavior, decreased survival and reduced spawning. The study also showed impacts on vision, olfaction and swimming performance in oil-exposed fish.
A new study led by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School found that artificially cooling oceans to weaken hurricanes is a futile solution due to its high energy requirements and minimal benefits. The research suggests focusing on adaptation strategies such as reinforcing infrastructure and improving evacuation procedures instead.
A new study from the University of Miami found that Miami's history of environmental injustice is a key factor in understanding why different groups are talking at cross-purposes about climate change. The research highlights how community histories, such as experiences of privilege or dispossession, shape opinions on climate change.
Researchers at the University of Miami discovered rare deep-sea brine pools in the Gulf of Aqaba, providing insights into ocean formation on Earth and the search for life elsewhere. The unique environments hold secrets about the limits of life and potential anticancer properties.
The University of Miami Rosenstiel School has been awarded a $7.5 million grant from DARPA to develop innovative hybrid reef structures that can accelerate coastal protection in Florida and the Caribbean.
Researchers tracked shark movements near Miami's city limits, finding they spent significant time near lights and sounds. This suggests sharks may be drawn to shore by land-based activities like fish carcass discarding, potentially impacting their health and survival.
Researchers found that baby corals are infected with stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) at similar severity and mortality rates as adult colonies. Growing coral recruits larger and promoting grouping before outplanting may reduce the risk of SCTLD.
Researchers found that low oxygen areas, or dead zones, were more likely to occur when red tides began in early summer. The study linked hypoxia to red tides across the west coast of Florida, shedding light on the conditions favorable for combined events.
Researchers found that corals exposed to variable temperatures were more tolerant of increased water temperatures and less likely to succumb to disease. This new approach could increase the success rate of coral restoration efforts, particularly in South Florida and the Caribbean.
Researchers have discovered evidence of a 500-year-old landslide and associated tsunami in the Gulf of Aqaba, which could have implications for coastline development in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. The study predicts that future movement of the seabed might trigger more tsunamis in the region.
A new study found that 85% of coral reef fish species are overfished due to increasing human demand for seafood. The research team developed a risk analysis framework to provide a blueprint for reducing overfishing and protecting these valuable fish populations.
A new study found that seafloor sediments can transmit a deadly pathogen to local corals, contributing to the persistence of a devastating coral disease outbreak. Coastal construction activities like dredging and beach renourishment may further spread the disease.
A new study found that climate-driven changes in ocean temperatures have shifted tiger shark movements outside of protected areas, making them more vulnerable to commercial fishing. The study's results suggest that warmer waters are now suitable for tiger sharks, allowing them to migrate farther poleward and earlier than usual.
A recent study found that fish frequently rub against sharks to remove skin irritants and parasites. This behavior, previously unknown, could play a significant ecological role for aquatic animals. The research team documented over 47 instances of fish chafing against shark skin in 13 locations around the world.
A study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences provides immediate actions for the world's largest coral restoration program. Researchers found significant variation in the heat tolerance of staghorn corals, with certain strains exhibiting higher resistance to warming oceans.
A new study led by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School found that changes in ocean salinity due to a more intensified water cycle lead to reduced surface warming. This phenomenon enhances ocean heat uptake into the deep ocean, moderating the pace of global warming.
A recent survey of people affected by hurricanes found that the public is willing to pay more than $500 million a year for improved hurricane forecasts. The study also found that wind speed forecast is the most valuable improvement, with an average willingness to pay of $28.89 per household per year.
A study by the University of Miami found that tiger sharks form social groups and exhibit social preferences, but interactions become more random when fed by dive tourism. The researchers tracked tiger sharks over three years and used Social Network Analysis to examine their behavior.
Researchers identified specialized immune cells in cauliflower coral and starlet sea anemone that can fight infection. These unique cell types were previously unknown and have implications for understanding coral resilience to climate change.
A new study by University of Miami scientists found that low-cost face masks and AC filters are effective at filtering out toxic algae in the air. Face masks filtered out over 90% of toxin-containing particles, while AC filters with high filter performance ratings reduced airborne toxins by 20-90%.
Researchers chronicle African dust transport across North Atlantic, highlighting its essential role in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The study also explores the link between dust transport and African climate, shedding light on Earth's largest source of dust.
A new study by University of Miami researchers documents how coral genes respond to stony coral tissue loss disease, a rapidly spreading disease killing corals in Florida and the Caribbean. The study found that a network of genes important for cell death, immunity, and tissue rearrangement are triggered in response to the disease.
Researchers at the University of Miami argue that managed retreat should be viewed as a proactive option to support communities and livelihoods in the face of climate change. The analysis reviews existing literature on the subject and suggests considering strategic and managed retreat alongside other responses like coastal armoring.
Researchers found that a large earthquake could set off the eruption of Hawaii's Mauna Loa volcano by relieving stress from magma influx, generating additional pressure and buoyancy. The study also identified movements along near-horizontal faults under the flanks as essential features of long-term volcano growth.
A new study tracked large sharks in Miami and The Bahamas to understand their responses to major storms like hurricanes. Researchers found that different shark species behaved differently by species and location, with some evacuating shallow waters while others remained or even increased in numbers after the storm passed.
Researchers discovered human activities releasing CO2 and pollutants impact North Atlantic weather patterns. The study predicts up to a decade-long warning for changes in weather and climate.
Researchers have gained new insights into volcanic behavior and can now track unrest before eruptions, enabling early warnings for local authorities and the public. The study provides a detailed description of Sierra Negra's 2018 eruption, capturing its inflation, fracture, and caldera resurgence.
A new study published in Frontiers in Marine Science demonstrates that oil in the ocean can undergo photooxidation, a process that breaks down crude oil into persistent compounds. This process occurs within hours to days and reduces the effectiveness of chemical dispersants used to clean up spills.
A new study by University of Miami researchers found that mahi-mahi typically spawn at night, primarily during a new moon, at depths greater than they normally would. This knowledge can help manage the valuable fish population and understand the impacts of climate change on their reproduction.
Researchers at the University of Miami have successfully cultured cells from coral and sea anemones for up to 12 days, opening new avenues for studying evolutionary biology and human health. The breakthrough uses antibiotic treatment to prime tissues before culture, allowing for longer and more robust cell cultures.