The Urban Water Innovation Network will develop technological, institutional, and management solutions to enhance urban water resilience. The network, led by Colorado State University, aims to create an enduring research network for integrated water systems and sustainable cities.
A volcanic island's unique location allows scientists to study ocean acidification effects on a small scale. Elevated CO2 levels trigger a dramatic ecosystem change from vibrant coral to algae-covered rocks.
A team of University of Miami researchers conducted an airborne experiment on low-lying clouds in the Pacific Ocean to better understand their effects on global climate. The project uses advanced technologies like Doppler cloud radar and aerosol lidar to study cloud structure, aerosols, and precipitation.
Researchers analyzed data from airborne sensors deployed during Hurricane Isaac's passage, revealing a downwelling of warm waters that deepened the storm's fuel tank. The study also showed how hurricane-generated currents and eddies can transport oil and other pollutants to coastal beaches.
Researchers studying marine snails found that aging impairs sensory and motor neurons' performance in short-term memory. This results in an inability of old animals to learn, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of age-related memory loss.
A new study examines predator-prey interactions between tiger sharks and sea turtles using satellite tagging data. The research found that while sharks exhibit modified surfacing behavior to enhance predation opportunity, turtles do not alter their behaviors to reduce shark attacks when home ranges overlap.
Researchers found that abrupt climate changes during the Holocene epoch affected ancient societies, leading to wetter conditions compared to recent times. The study's high-resolution peat record revealed transitions in major civilizations coinciding with episodes of high atmospheric dust.
Researchers have tracked the movement of internal waves in the South China Sea, revealing that they are generated daily from internal tides. These massive underwater waves can reach heights of over 170 meters and travel hundreds of kilometers, playing a crucial role in global climate regulation and marine ecosystems.
A new study found that mountainous star corals at depths of nearly 140 feet can produce one trillion more eggs per square kilometer than shallow-water counterparts. This discovery has significant implications for the future of coral reefs worldwide, as it suggests that deeper waters may offer reproductive refuge to threatened species.
A new study found that releasing larvae more often helps stabilize species population networks on coral reefs. The study, using a computer model, showed that frequent spawning drives connectivity between distant populations, stabilizing the network.
Researchers developed a new model to predict harmful bacteria levels on beaches, using information on waves, tides, and rainfall. The model provides beach managers with an easily accessible computer tool to identify when closures are required to protect human health.
CIMAS, a 10-member research consortium based at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School, has received a $125 million award from NOAA to fund its activities over the next five years. The renewed partnership will focus on improving hurricane forecasting, ecosystem-based ocean management, and climate prediction.
Researchers found that Staghorn coral species can increase feeding rates to buffer the effects of climate change and ocean acidification. This breakthrough has implications for reef conservation and resilience strategies.
Researchers found a natural dispersion mechanism that forms small oil droplets under high pressure, reducing the amount of oil reaching the surface. The study suggests this mechanism may replace chemical dispersants in some cases.
A new biophysical model developed by Claire Paris reveals that tiny ocean organisms, known as foraminifera, can drift significantly before falling to the seafloor and being fossilized. This study aids in improving our understanding of past global climate conditions.
A $2.5 million NSF grant will support the five-year Agulhas System Climate Array project, which aims to monitor changes in the ocean's circulation due to climate change. The research will focus on the physical characteristics of the Agulhas Current and its role in global climate variability.
Researchers developed a new sensor to detect ambient mercury levels in the atmosphere, providing a more accurate method for measuring global human exposure. The sequential two-photon laser-induced fluorescence (2P-LIF) instrument detects mercury at parts-per-quadrillion sensitivity, outperforming existing methods.
A new study found that Caribbean gorgonian corals can calcify and grow under elevated CO2 concentrations, suggesting they may be more resistant to ocean acidification. The research also challenges the idea that all high-magnesium calcite-secretors are susceptible to ocean acidification.
Fish larvae produce distinct 'knock' and 'growl' sounds within the hearing range of adult fish to maintain group cohesion during their pelagic journey. The sounds were observed in 70% of nighttime trials, suggesting a mechanism for larval communication.
Scientists at the University of Miami re-evaluate the global carbon cycle by analyzing marine sediment cores, suggesting that post-depositional changes can mimic ancient trends. This new perspective highlights the importance of understanding geological context in interpreting carbon isotope records.
Researchers will deploy hundreds of robotic floats to study the Southern Ocean's carbon and heat uptake, as well as its importance in ocean ecosystems. The project aims to improve climate models and provide insights into the region's global significance.
A new study on the Indian Ocean reveals that Sri Lanka and surrounding regions are susceptible to large tsunamis with varying time periods between events. Researchers analyzed sediment cores, finding a 1000-year period without a tsunami, nearly twice as long as the lull period prior to the 2004 earthquake.
Researchers analyzed African dust transported to South America, finding large seasonal peaks in winter and spring. Dust concentrations exceeded World Health Organization guidelines, posing respiratory health risks.
Scientists from University of Miami's Rosenstiel School conducted a drifter experiment to study small-scale ocean currents, revealing their crucial role in pollutant dispersion. The findings provide new information for predicting oil and pollutant movements in the ocean, with immediate practical applications.
A new study from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School confirms that rising levels of water vapor in the upper troposphere will intensify climate change impacts. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, increase greenhouse gases, leading to higher temperatures and more atmospheric moisture.
Researchers from the University of Miami found that iron-rich Saharan dust provides nutrients for specialized bacteria producing carbonate-based foundation. The study suggests that high concentrations of iron-rich dust blown across the Atlantic Ocean are responsible for the formation of the Great Bahama Bank.
A new study found large differences in survival rates of 12 shark species caught by commercial longline fishing operations. The most vulnerable species include bigeye thresher, dusky, and scalloped hammerhead sharks.
A collaborative research team published findings in Ecological Indicators on a new marine ecosystem support tool to improve decision-making by natural resource managers. The MARES project integrates ecosystem science and societal benefits into a management framework, providing exportable technology for other coastal ecosystems.
UM Rosenstiel School scientists have developed a new method to improve storm intensity prediction of hurricanes, focusing on the air-sea interface. The study suggests that instability in this region can explain rapid intensification of tropical storms.
Researchers analyzed bioerosion rates and distribution of organisms on mesophotic reefs to understand long-term structural sustainability. The study found significant differences in bioerosion rates between mesophotic and shallow-water reefs.
A new study led by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School found that Deepwater Horizon crude oil exposure harms mahi-mahi swimming capabilities, affecting survival and foraging abilities. The study revealed a 22-37% decrease in swimming velocity among juvenile fish exposed to oil.
A new study has found that exposure to crude oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill can cause serious defects in heart development and function of fish embryos. The research highlights the potential impacts on commercially important pelagic fish populations in the Gulf of Mexico.
Scientists have identified a large, deep magma chamber below Kilauea volcano using seismic data. The crustal magma reservoir is composed of 'magma mush' and is similar to those found beneath mid-ocean ridges, posing significant hazards to the volcano.
A new study reveals that fish larvae of cardinalfish and damselfish use olfactory cues to detect the presence of coral reefs, allowing them to navigate their way back home. The researchers used an o-DISC device to track larval movement and orientation in response to odor cues.
Gentemann is recognized for her contributions to the quality of life, economic opportunities, and stewardship of the planet through Earth science information. Her research focuses on extracting geophysical variables from measurements of imaging microwave radiometers on earth observation satellites.
A new simulation model reveals coral larvae's long-distance journeys across the world's seas, with some traveling up to 9,000 km. The study provides insights into coral reef distributions and potential effects of climate change.
Dennis Hansell, a renowned chemical oceanographer, has been awarded the Sverdrup Lecture at the AGU Ocean Sciences Meeting. He will focus on the dynamics of organic material dissolved in the ocean and its role in elemental cycling.
Patrick Rynne's student-run project Waterlust brings together marine science, art, and sport through online film and photography. The project aims to inspire public interest in water-related topics, empowering scientists to communicate their work creatively.
Researchers develop Connectivity Modeling System to simulate larval dispersal and settlement patterns in the Caribbean. The study suggests that powerful currents can 'push out' larvae, but also highlights the importance of protecting source regions for sustainable management of the spiny lobster fishery.
A new study suggests that ocean acidification could lead to increased hearing sensitivity in fish, with potential benefits for navigation and communication. Researchers found that fish raised in low-pH seawater had larger otoliths, which are used for hearing and balance, resulting in up to a 58-percent increase in otolith mass.
The Abess Center honored Terrence 'Rock' Salt with the 2013 Environmental Stewardship Award for his decades-long commitment to championing the Everglades. Karlisa Callwood received the inaugural Orion Herbs Fieldwork Grant to study the Bahamian spiny lobster fishery.
Dr. Cecilia Bitz, an associate professor at the University of Washington, will receive the Rosenstiel Award for her contributions to climate and climate change research, particularly in high-latitude regions. Her work focuses on climate modeling, sea ice predictability, and geoengineering perspectives.
Researchers found that cobia larvae showed remarkable resistance to end-of-century acidification scenarios, but reduced growth and development at more extreme levels. The study provides an optimistic outlook for this species, but highlights the need for further research on how fish react to ocean acidification.
The University of Miami's CSTARS has been awarded a contract by the Office of Naval Research to collect, process and disseminate global Synthetic Aperture Radar data in near-real time. This will enable the U.S. Navy to utilize SAR imagery for improved operational capabilities.
A University of Miami graduate student has been awarded a grant to study the effects of climate change on staghorn corals, which have experienced an 80% decline in populations over the last 30 years. The research aims to identify markers for resilience to climate change.
A new study projects that most coral reefs will experience annual bleaching events by 2045, with a quarter experiencing them up to five years earlier. Reducing carbon emissions can delay these events in nearly a quarter of reef areas for over two decades.
The University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science graduate student won a video contest recognizing her pioneering work on bio-acoustics and larval fish navigation. The award highlights the importance of science communication, with Erica co-directing a marine science film festival.
A new study using 3D models shows that chemical dispersants injected into the Macondo wellhead had little effect on preventing oil from reaching the sea surface. The researchers found that the oil droplets were too small for the dispersants to have a significant impact.
Researchers used hatchery technology to test the impact of DWH oil on mahi mahi embryos, finding that even low levels of PAHs can cause significant physiological damage. The study also revealed that photo-enhanced toxicity can increase sensitivity by up to 20-fold, affecting fish swimming performance and survival.
Kevin Brix, a University of Miami PhD graduate, has been awarded the SETAC/ICA Chris Lee Award for his outstanding research on metal toxicity in aquatic organisms. His work focuses on the mechanisms of metal toxicity to freshwater and marine species, with a particular emphasis on dietary metal exposure and its effects on aquatic life.