Articles tagged with Marine Biodiversity
A new scientific article highlights the need for a global ocean vision to guide marine policies, plans, and programs. The authors propose incorporating Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) into international agreements to develop this holistic approach.
A study led by ICM-CSIC finds that mass mortality events caused by marine heatwaves affected all Mediterranean regions between 2015 and 2019, resulting in recurrent mass mortalities throughout the period. The research highlights the significant positive relationship between the duration of heat waves and the incidence of mortality events.
Locations with high marine biodiversity are most vulnerable to oceanic warming, making them particularly susceptible to climate change. This is because species in these regions are ill-equipped to respond to large changes in temperature, requiring them to move at rates rarely seen for marine life.
A global team of experts identifies 15 emerging issues threatening marine and coastal biodiversity, including lithium extraction and deep-sea fishing. The horizon scan highlights the importance of assessing these issues now to drive policy change and protect ecosystems.
In a breakthrough observation, scientists documented large groups of southern fin whales feeding together in the Antarctic for the first time since the whaling ban. The discovery suggests that fin whale populations are rebounding, with numbers reaching up to 150 individuals.
A report by experts predicts 15 issues that will impact marine and coastal biodiversity in the next decade, including lithium extraction, wildfires, and overfishing. The study aims to raise awareness and encourage investment to protect these ecosystems.
A new study has found that invasive subtropical corals can survive and thrive in coastal Sydney, raising concerns for existing coral species. The research suggests that warming temperatures could kill off the native corals, highlighting the need to protect Australia's reefs from climate change.
A new study by the University of Exeter predicts that the pink sea fan coral species will expand its range northwards along the British coast as global temperatures rise. The research found suitable habitat for the species beyond its current northern limits, indicating potential spread by 2100.
New research shows that motorboat noise disrupts parental behaviors in coral reef fish, but reducing noise levels improves breeding success. On quieter reefs, 65% of nests contained offspring, compared to 40% on busy reefs. The study suggests that acoustic sanctuaries can help build resilience on coral reefs.
Researchers at MBARI use eDNA and autonomous underwater robots to survey marine biodiversity, providing clues about changes in sensitive areas and the presence of rare species. The technology enables persistent monitoring of ocean ecosystems, supporting food webs and regulating climate.
A recent study reveals that massive carbon emission during the Late Paleozoic Ice Age led to anoxic areal extent equivalent to 20% of the seafloor and significant biodiversity loss. The research team used geochemical signals, sedimentology, and climate modeling to simulate the effects of a 300,000-year warming event.
A study by Princeton University researchers predicts that unchecked global emissions will lead to a mass extinction of marine life, with tropical waters experiencing the greatest loss of biodiversity. The study found that reversing greenhouse gas emissions could reduce the risk of extinction by more than 70%.
A scientific expedition led by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute aims to explore and document the biodiversity of Panama's Cordillera de Coiba seamounts. The mission, funded by several organizations, will use advanced technology to study the important habitats in the area.
New research uses surfboard samples to analyze seasonal changes in phytoplankton, a crucial component of ocean food chains. The study finds that phytoplankton levels nearshore and offshore are similar in autumn, winter and spring, but higher nearshore during summer months.
Coral reefs in remote areas of the Indian Ocean have shown rapid recovery after a 2015/16 bleaching event. The study found that reefs with intact physical structure and key coral species returned quickly, indicating a high level of resilience to ocean warming.
Researchers have tracked green turtle populations at Aldabra Atoll and found a significant increase in clutches laid since the species was protected in 1968. The study reveals an overall 2.6% annual rise in clutch numbers, offering hope for marine conservation success stories.
A researcher is studying the pufferfish genome to understand its evolutionary history and how it developed distinctive physical traits. The study aims to uncover the underlying genetic mechanisms behind the fish's varying body shapes and extreme sizes.
The Gabonese government-led initiative, 'Gabon Bleu,' created a 20-protected area network, increasing ocean protection from less than 1% to 26%. This inter-connected network protects habitats and globally important marine species.
A massive DNA sequencing project has mapped the deep-sea biodiversity, revealing a vast and unknown ecosystem that plays a crucial role in ocean food-webs and carbon sequestration. The study sheds light on the connection between surface and deep-water ecosystems, with implications for understanding climate change.
Researchers found that dynamic ocean management is more effective in reducing accidental catch than permanent marine protected areas. Dynamic closures track real-time data and close smaller areas as species hotspots shift, resulting in up to 57% reduction in bycatch.
Scientists used biologging tech to track three seabird species taking different migration routes from a shared Canadian Arctic nesting location. The study adds evidence linking marine biodiversity in the Arctic region to high seas conservation efforts. Local coastal communities are connected through these Arctic seabirds' migrations.
The Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Management of UK Marine Resources (SuMMeR CDT) will train 50 interdisciplinary PhD students to sustainably manage the UK's coasts and seas. The program focuses on subjects ranging from marine sciences to law, health, education, and economics.
A new study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that the greatest increase in marine biodiversity on Earth occurred due to changes in climate cycles, rather than an asteroid explosion. Fossil analysis revealed a shift towards colder climates around 469 million years ago, leading to the blooming of marine life.
A new study reveals human activities have drastically altered the ocean's biodiversity, with significant losses in larger species like whales and dolphins. Biomass estimates show a 60% reduction in large fish and marine mammals, outpacing even extreme climate change scenarios.
A study in Brazil's Santos city showed that citizen science collaboration between civil society and academia can achieve progress toward ocean conservation goals. The project developed a methodology for integrating civil society and academia, including training and validation of monitoring protocols.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated plastic pollution, with global waste generation increasing by twice the amount in 2020 compared to 2019. To address this issue, researchers advocate for a transition to novel sustainable practices and technologies, including biodegradable plastics and efficient recycling processes.
A new study published in Coral Reefs confirms that soft corals Plexaura kükenthali and Plexaura homomalla are two separate species. The research found significant differences in morphology, genetics, reproduction, and symbiotic relationships between the two species.
Scientists at Stanford University have discovered a pattern in how life reemerges after mass extinctions. In the past half-billion years, smaller marine genera were substantially more likely to be wiped out during mass extinction events, but during recovery intervals, originators tended to be tiny compared to holdover species.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii found that coral reef community structure changes in response to ocean warming and acidification, but total biodiversity remains stable. The tiny organisms living within the reef matrix, known as cryptobiota, play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and food web dynamics.
The study found that coral reefs' capacity to provide essential benefits and services, including food and livelihoods, has declined significantly. The decline in coral reef coverage and biodiversity is attributed to climate change, overfishing, pollution, and more.
A study on Antarctic jellyfish was conducted using footage from an amateur nature video. The research team identified 12 species, with two likely representing undescribed species. A machine learning training set for video annotation was also developed.
The MPA Guide categorizes MPAs by stage of establishment and level of protection, highlighting the importance of including local peoples in the decision-making process for effective conservation. The guide specifies outcomes for biodiversity and human well-being depending on the chosen level of protection.
A new system for sampling fragments of DNA from marine organisms drifting in the ocean has been developed, enabling researchers to monitor biodiversity and conservation efforts on a global scale. The innovative approach uses water collected from engine cooling systems on commercial vessels, allowing for large-scale surveys of marine ec...
Researchers found that areas protected under 'whole-site' Marine Protected Area (MPA) status have four-fold increases in fish abundance and diversity compared to unprotected areas. The study also showed significant benefits for commercially important fish species and conservation.
A Yale study has identified significant gaps in biodiversity maps, limiting effective conservation decisions globally. The researchers created regional trends maps to assess the distribution of 31,000 terrestrial vertebrates, highlighting opportunities for citizen scientists and government agencies to support biodiversity monitoring.
A new study found that plastic pollution is ingested by juvenile sea turtles, leading them to accumulate in highly polluted areas like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The research team examined 121 sea turtles from five species and found that 86% of loggerheads and 83% of greens contained plastic.
A novel statistical method revealed the importance of climate change in controlling deep-sea biodiversity, with temperature being the primary driver. The study used long-term fossil records and Convergent Cross Mapping to detect causality, supporting evidence that climate change affects deep-sea ecosystems.
Scientists have identified two marine biodiversity refugia in the Eastern Bering Sea, where species richness and community stability are high. These regions, covering less than 10% of the study area, harbor 91% of analyzed species and support commercially important fish and crab populations.
Researchers map human impacts on threatened and near-threatened marine species over time, revealing widespread and intensifying pressures. Corals are found to be severely impacted across their entire ranges, with climate-related impacts increasing in severity.
Researchers analyzed octopus arm movements, discovering all eight arms can perform diverse movements such as bending, twisting and elongating. This flexibility could inspire the creation of next-generation soft robots with greater agility and sensing capability.
Researchers found that eco-engineered tiles with crevices can increase habitat complexity, enhancing marine biodiversity. The tiles provided shelter and reduced temperatures for animals, promoting a healthy ecosystem.
A study analyzed biogeographic distributions of 52,318 marine fossils and found the latitudinal diversity gradient flattened rapidly during the Permian-Triassic mass extinction due to intense global warming and reduced ocean oxygen levels. The curve gradually returned to resemble modern biodiversity patterns after around 5 million years.
An international team is developing sustainable strategies for managing marine ecosystems, addressing global environmental change and ecosystem functions. The project combines data analysis and modelling to develop effective management approaches for coastal and oceanic environments.
A recent study found that tropical biodiversity in the ocean is declining, with a potential decrease in diversity by the end of the century. The research, led by Drs Moriaki Yasuhara and Timothy C Bonebrake, used fossil records to project future marine biodiversity patterns.
A University of Queensland-led international study found that at least 26% of the world's oceans need urgent conservation attention to preserve Earth's marine biodiversity. The study identified a total ocean area required for conservation varying from 26-41%, depending on species range conservation proportions.
In Mediterranean Protected Areas, red coral colonies (Corallium rubrum) have recovered partially, with health levels comparable to those of the 1980s. The study highlights the effectiveness of marine protections and underscores the need for urgent protection measures in Mediterranean biodiversity hotspots.
A recent study mapping global biodiversity change reveals varying rates of loss and gain in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The research found that some regions are recovering while others are experiencing significant declines, with changes occurring faster in marine than terrestrial assemblages.
A new UN high-seas treaty could effectively manage all fish species in international waters if it includes measures to address non-targeted species. The proposed treaty must close gaps in biodiversity governance to protect over 95% of deep ocean fish species that currently have no assessments.
A pioneering artificial reef project has been launched in Sydney Harbour, aimed at increasing local marine biodiversity and supporting native species. The reef, featuring modular pods with 3D printed design elements, is already attracting interest from fish species such as leatherjackets and bream.
A new computer model reveals accelerating biological changes in the global ocean, which can redistribute ocean communities and species worldwide. The model predicts these changes one year in advance, enabling identification of regions overlooked by current field observation programs.
A new report reveals that only 41% of European MPAs are fished less intensely than non-protected waters, while trawling activity is 38% higher inside MPAs. The findings suggest that stronger regulations are needed for MPAs to effectively protect sensitive species and biodiversity.
A team of scientists, with citizen initiative help, confirms Rhizostoma luteum's presence and abundance in Mediterranean waters over the past 60 years. More than 150 observations since 1998 reveal it's not a rare species.
Current MPAs in Finland protect only 27% of marine biodiversity, leaving many ecologically important species at risk. Increasing protected areas by just 1% can double conservation of the most important species.
The Persian Gulf may lose up to 12% of its marine biodiversity if climate change is not addressed. Some species may migrate north, but the area suitable for them will shrink under climate change.
A large group of common bottlenose dolphins was recorded in Canadian Pacific waters, the first confirmed occurrence in this area. The sighting suggests that these warm-water species may naturally range into British Columbia, Canada when conditions are suitable due to warming trend.
Researchers have discovered a new species of ruby seadragon in the wild, showcasing its intense red color and distinctive features. The fish lives at depths of over 50 meters, beyond recreational diving limits, and relies on its red color for effective camouflage.
A comprehensive study on Hong Kong's marine biodiversity reveals the territory is home to over 26% of China's recorded marine species, comparable to regions like the Caribbean Sea and East Africa. The research highlights the importance of conserving marine habitats in Hong Kong, with only 2% currently protected.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that dispersal distances rank biological groups by genetic and community levels, supporting neutral theory predictions for marine biological connectivity. Dispersal limitation maintains species coexistence and promotes regional biodiversity.
A recent study published in Marine Biodiversity Records reveals that lionfish have colonized almost the entire southeastern coast of Cyprus within a year, thanks to rising sea temperatures. The invasive species can outcompete native fish and reduce biodiversity in the area.
A new study confirms that preserving marine biodiversity can benefit people as much as it benefits the oceans. Communities with more species are more productive and resilient to rising temperatures, while those with fewer species suffer significantly under fluctuating temperatures.