Marine Ecology
Articles tagged with Marine Ecology
From ocean to gut: The bacteria that shape both human health and marine carbon cycling
Researchers discovered that Akkermansia bacteria, which aid human digestion, also thrive in the ocean by breaking down seaweed sugar. This finding highlights the importance of these bacteria in both human health and marine ecosystems.
Nitrogen pollution identified as major driver of biodiversity loss in UK coastal waters
A new study reveals that nitrogen enrichment is significantly reducing the abundance and variety of marine life in UK coastal ecosystems. The research found a strong association between higher nitrogen concentrations and a decrease in animal abundance and species richness.
Sharks may help improve climate forecasts, study finds
A new study demonstrates that animal-borne sensors, such as those on tagged sharks, can enhance ocean forecast accuracy in regions with limited observational data. By incorporating shark-collected temperature and depth data into a seasonal climate model, forecast errors decreased substantially, particularly in coastal and shelf regions.
West African coast emerges as key source of microlitter in the South Atlantic Ocean
A study by ICTA-UAB reveals that the West African coast is a primary source of microlitter in the South Atlantic Ocean, with particles transported by equatorial currents to remote areas. The research highlights the need for global action to address this environmental issue.
New peer-reviewed study: Bottom trawling in Europe’s waters costs society up to €16 billion annually — mostly due to climate impacts
A new peer-reviewed study finds that bottom trawling in European waters results in significant economic losses, with annual costs reaching up to €16 billion. The destructive fishing practice is also found to be a major contributor to climate change, with its impacts felt throughout the region's marine ecosystems.
Warm-bodied sharks and tunas face “double jeopardy” in warming seas – new research
Research reveals warm-bodied fish like sharks and tunas burn nearly four times more energy than cold-blooded counterparts, exacerbating the impact of warming oceans. As a result, these species are facing an increasing risk of overheating and habitat loss.
Tiny green pigment provides insights into how successive typhoons drive cumulative water, ecosystem changes
Researchers found that successive typhoons drive cumulative changes in chlorophyll a density, affecting ecosystem productivity. The study provides insights into forecasting variations in estuarine ecosystems during typhoon events.
The giants of the reef: New citizen science project races to document centennial corals
A new study introduces Map the Giants, a pioneering citizen-science initiative to document giant coral colonies before they disappear due to global pressures. The project aims to unlock genetic secrets and traits of resilient corals, providing a validated sampling frame for future research.
Longer-term plankton species diversity is independent of ocean mixing
Researchers used a cabled marine observatory to study plankton abundance and variety over a four-year period. They found that long-term changes in aggregate abundance and plankton diversity were not influenced by ocean turbulence.
Newly documented trophic relationship confirmed through video evidence of Adélie penguins
Adélie penguins have been found to consume shelled pteropods as an opportunistic prey, highlighting a previously underdocumented trophic relationship in the Southern Ocean. The study provides valuable insights into the penguins' foraging behavior and its potential implications for the ecosystem.
Penguin ‘toxicologists’ find PFAS chemicals in remote Patagonia
A study by the University of California, Davis, and State University of New York at Buffalo found that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were detected in over 90% of penguin leg bands in remote Patagonia. The non-invasive sampling method revealed a shift from legacy PFAS to newer replacement chemicals in the environment.
How microbes survive in the plastisphere
Researchers found that microorganisms in the plastisphere have more functional genes to survive under extreme ocean conditions. They can absorb nutrients effectively and utilize alternative energy sources like anoxygenic photosynthesis.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and Scripps Institution of Oceanography partner for innovative conservation efforts
The partnership aims to boost conservation impact by harnessing advanced digital technology and biobanking techniques, focusing on three core areas: knowledge transfer, innovation, and student engagement. This collaboration seeks to address pressing environmental challenges such as biodiversity threats and emerging pathogens.
New study unveils rich biodiversity in Japan's deepest ocean trenches, featuring record-breaking discoveries and an unidentified "mystery" species
A new study published in Biodiversity Data Journal reveals a profound look at life up to nearly 10 kilometers below the ocean's surface in the Japan, Ryukyu, and Izu-Ogasawara trenches. The research catalogs at least 108 distinct organism groups, including a baffling unidentified animal that has left global taxonomic experts stumped.
How can science support and enable the High Seas Treaty?
A new study provides a solutions-focused pathway to implementing the High Seas Treaty, highlighting the need for enhanced data resources and sharing. The researchers identify major scientific and technical developments that can help address challenges in biodiversity monitoring and connectivity between areas.
Climate change may produce “fast-food” phytoplankton
A new study suggests that climate change will shift the balance of macromolecules in phytoplankton from proteins to carbohydrates and lipids, with a 20% increase expected by 2100. This could lead to an unbalanced diet for marine life, with implications for ocean health and human consumption.
A new crab is settling in the Mediterranean: Early evidence of establishment of a Lessepsian species in the Ionian Sea
A new study documents the rapid expansion of the Indo-Pacific crab Gonioinfradens giardi in the Ionian Sea, indicating a shift from sporadic occurrence to stable populations. The species' establishment raises concerns about its ecological role and interactions with native species.
Getting a glimpse of viral dances in the dark in the Sargasso Sea
A study of viral abundance in the Sargasso Sea reveals that viruses with cyclical changes in abundance are most active at night, infecting heterotrophic host microbes. This finding opens new questions about the ecological services provided by oceans and highlights the importance of including viruses in ocean models.
Temperature dynamics, not just extremes, impact heat tolerance in mussels
A recent study found that temperature fluctuations over time, rather than just extreme temperatures, affect mussel health. Researchers exposed mussels to varying temperature regimens and discovered distinct responses even when average temperatures were the same.
Moby Dick ‘ship sinking’ sperm whales caught headbutting on camera
Researchers at the University of St Andrews have confirmed that sperm whales engage in headbutting behavior, using their heads to push and strike objects, including ships. The study, published in Marine Mammal Science, shows that sub-adult whales are involved in this activity, challenging previous hypotheses about its function.
Coastal ocean chemistry now substantially shaped by humans
A global analysis of over 2,300 seawater samples reveals human-made chemicals make up a significant portion of organic matter in coastal oceans. Industrial chemicals, including plastics and consumer products, dominate the anthropogenic chemical signal, persisting even 20 kilometers offshore.
Cannibalism takes major bite out of young blue crabs, but the shallows offer a refuge
A 37-year study by the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center found that cannibalism is the primary killer of juvenile blue crabs in mid-salinity waters. However, young crabs can escape predation by migrating to shallow waters, where they are safer from adult crabs and other predators.
In the ocean’s marine ‘snow,’ a scientist seeks clues to future climate
A Rutgers researcher finds bacteria accelerate calcium carbonate dissolution in shallow seas, potentially slowing carbon sequestration and influencing climate change. The discovery sheds light on the ocean's biological carbon pump and its future implications.
Special issue elevates disease ecology in marine management
A new special edition of the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B provides a comprehensive collection of peer-reviewed studies on disease management in marine wildlife. The issue examines emerging pathogens, methodological advances, climate change, and ecosystem-based management.
Risk of whale entanglement in fishing gear tied to size of cool-water habitat
Research finds that humpback whales face a higher risk of getting entangled in fishing equipment during years with lower availability of cool-water habitat. The Habitat Compression Index can predict ocean conditions up to a year in advance, suggesting its potential as an early warning system for fishery management decisions.
The new ‘forever’ contaminant? SFU study raises alarm on marine fiberglass pollution
A new SFU study found fibreglass particles in the sediment and biofilm layers of the Cowichan Estuary, which supports shorebirds and shellfish. The researchers recommend immediate management actions to prevent further pollution from abandoned boats and marine infrastructure.
Global shark bites return to average in 2025, with a smaller proportion in the United States
In 2025, global unprovoked shark bites returned to near-average levels, with a significant decrease in the United States. The country accounted for 38% of worldwide incidents, down from over 50% in recent years. Australia followed closely, with 32% of global bites and 56% of fatalities.
Otters as ocean doctors: How a 40-Year watch on Brazil’s coasts reveals hidden threats to estuaries
Neotropical otter study reveals 40 years of field data showing that otters aggregate environmental signals across time and space. The study highlights the critical Tropical Knowledge Gap in otter research, with 70% focusing on temperate species.
The giant fire tornado that could save our oceans
Researchers have developed a new method for cleaning oil spills using massive fire whirls, which can burn through crude oil nearly twice as fast as in-situ fire pools. The results show that fire whirls produce 40% less soot and consume up to 95% of the fuel, leaving fewer harmful particles behind.
As tropical fish move north, UT San Antonio researcher tracks climate threats to Texas waterways
A UT San Antonio assistant professor is studying how climate change and urbanization affect freshwater ecosystems by tracking the expansion of exotic tropical fish species into northern regions. The project aims to provide practical tools for natural resource managers to protect Texas waterways.
Releasing pollack at depth could benefit their long-term survival, study suggests
A new study suggests that releasing pollack closer to their natural catch depths can significantly improve their chances of survival. The research found that releasing fish at these depths can increase survival rates from 56% to over 80%. This could have a positive impact on the long-term sustainability of recreational pollack fisheries.
New record of Great White Shark in Spain sparks a 160-year review
A juvenile great white shark was incidentally caught in Spanish waters, raising questions about the species' biology and ecology. The study confirms continued, though sporadic, presence of white sharks in Mediterranean waters.
The internet names a new deep-sea species, Senckenberg researchers select a scientific name from over 8,000 suggestions.
A newly discovered deep-sea chiton was named Ferreiraella populi through a public naming contest on social media. The name translates to 'of the people' and was chosen from over 8,000 submissions.
Tooling up to diagnose ocean health
A field-deployable CRISPR-based biosensing platform has been developed for rapid, on-site monitoring of marine species and ecosystems, offering a sustainable solution for tracking ocean health. The technology has the potential to detect critical species, predict outbreaks, and support early warning systems for ecosystem disruptions.
Corals’ boldest cousins: UH scientists discover marine creatures bending the laws of evolution
A global study finds zoantharians, colorful hexacorals, exhibit surprisingly narrow genetic and morphological divergence between oceans. Their ability to disperse via epic larval phases and raft across ocean basins may be key to their success.
Fossilized plankton study gives long-term hope for oxygen depleted oceans
Researchers found fossilized plankton suggest a possible long-term recovery from oxygen-depleted oceans despite climate warming. The study, published in Communications Earth & Environment, examined fossilized plankton from the Arabian Sea and found higher oxygen levels during the Miocene Climatic Optimum (MCO) compared to today.
Conveying the concept of blue carbon in Japanese media: A new study provides insights
A recent study by Doshisha University researchers found that Japanese media generally accurately conveys the concept of blue carbon, but fails to adequately address its challenges and risks. The study recommends improved collaboration among media professionals, policymakers, and marine scientists for effective science communication.
Microplastics are found in a third of surveyed fish off the coasts of remote Pacific Islands
A third of fish off Pacific Islands' coasts contain microplastics, with Fiji showing a high rate of contamination. Research highlights the pervasiveness of microplastic pollution and its impact on ecosystems and human health.
Atlantic nurse sharks show faster growth patterns in Biscayne Bay than nearby Bimini, Bahamas
A new study reveals significant differences in growth patterns between nurse sharks off the coast of Miami and those living just across the Gulf Stream. The research found that juvenile nurse sharks in Biscayne Bay grow more rapidly and reach smaller maximum sizes than their counterparts in Bimini, Bahamas.
Ibiza at an ecological disadvantage compared with other Mediterranean locations, according to a study by the MarPITIUS25 project
A recent study by the MarPITIUS25 project reveals that Ibiza's coastline has lower biodiversity, biomass, and adult fish populations compared to other Mediterranean locations. The study highlights the impact of environmental pressures such as wastewater discharges, desalination plants, microplastics, and intense tourism on the ecosystem.
Whales may divide resources to co-exist under pressures from climate change
Researchers studied diet changes among three whale species, fin, humpback, and minke whales, over 28 years. The study found that whales are adapting their feeding habits in response to limited resource availability and increased competition.
USF-led study: AI helps reveal global surge in floating algae
A USF-led study using AI shows a significant increase in macroalgae growth globally, with blooms expanding across the tropical Atlantic and western Pacific. The study attributes this shift to climate variability and human activities such as nutrient runoff.
A new temperature record challenges the extreme high-latitude warmth paradigm
A new study using fossil coccoliths suggests the North Atlantic was 9 degrees Celsius cooler than previously thought during the Miocene epoch. This finding challenges the extreme high-latitude warmth paradigm and aligns with existing climate models for this period.
Underwater photos show seabirds, seals and fish interacting with a tidal turbine in Washington State
Researchers captured underwater photos of seabirds, seals, and fish interacting with a small tidal turbine in Washington State. The study provides valuable information on the impact of tidal turbines on marine life. Marine animals were observed swimming, feeding, and even playing around the turbine
Scientists create a system for tracking underwater blackouts
Marine darkwaves are short-term episodes of underwater darkness that can severely impact kelp forests, seagrass beds, and other light-dependent marine life. The researchers developed a framework to compare these events across the globe, finding between 25-80 marine darkwaves along the East Cape since 2002.
Are you ready to swap salmon for sprats and sardines?
A UK study found that over 40% of consumers are willing to try new fish species, including sardines and anchovies. The research highlights the potential for improving national health and local economies by embracing home-caught seafood. It also reveals a generational divide in seafood consumption habits.
Giant clams thrive with Indigenous management in American Sāmoa
A new study reveals that giant clam populations in American Sāmoa are stable and abundant due to traditional community-based resource management. Village-managed closures outperform federally protected no-take areas, highlighting the effectiveness of cultural stewardship.
Identical micro-animals live in two isolated deep-sea environments. How is that possible?
A microscopic nematode genus, Halalaimus, has been discovered in both the Aleutian Trench and the South Sandwich Trench, two isolated deep-sea environments. The three identical genera found in these trenches have adapted to different habitats, highlighting the meiofauna paradox.
Study reveals how ocean's most abundant bacteria diversify
Researchers discovered that SAR11 marine bacteria are organized into stable, ecologically distinct groups, adapted to specific environments such as coastal and open ocean. These findings provide new insights into the global ocean's life-support system and climate reactions to threats like pollution and ocean warming.
Deep ocean earthquakes drive Southern Ocean’s massive phytoplankton blooms, study finds
A new study found that deep underwater earthquakes can spur massive phytoplankton blooms at the ocean surface. Phytoplankton are microscopic, plant-like organisms that float in upper ocean layers and serve as the foundation of the oceanic food chain.
Seals on the move: Research reveals key data for offshore development and international ecology
Researchers created comprehensive maps of grey and harbour seal distributions in Northwest Europe, encompassing most seal populations on the continental shelf. The study found that seals routinely cross international borders while foraging at sea, often overlooked in environmental impact assessments.
Scientists discover fungus that kills toxic algae threatening human health
A team of researchers from Yokohama National University has discovered a previously unknown species of marine fungus that can kill harmful, bloom-forming algae. The new species, Algophthora mediterranea, was found to be a destructive parasite in a species of algae known to cause toxic blooms with adverse health effects on humans.
Tapping into whale talk
A Harvard-designed bio-logger captures high-fidelity audio of sperm whale codas, which are later analyzed by machine learning models to uncover structured communication. Recent results show that sperm whales have their own alphabet and use vowels and diphthongs in their language.
FAU Engineering awarded $600,000 FDEP grant to combat harmful algal blooms
Florida Atlantic University's College of Engineering has received a $600,379 grant to advance technology targeting harmful algal blooms in Florida's waterways. The project aims to develop novel 3D-printed adsorbent materials for efficient phosphate removal.
Urea: The hidden fuel for ocean microbes
A new study reveals that ammonia-oxidizing archaea rely on urea as a nitrogen source, enabling them to flourish in open ocean waters. This discovery challenges existing understanding of nitrification rates and highlights the crucial role of urea in sustaining ocean productivity.
New USF study finds widespread rule-breaking in whale shark tourism hotspot
A new USF study found that tour boats and swimmers routinely violate Mexico's whale shark tourism rules, even when waters are less crowded. The research, based on drone footage from 2016 and 2022, suggests that the world's busiest whale-shark destination is struggling to manage demand, putting vulnerable animals at risk.
Striped bass are struggling; UMass Amherst biologists know how to help
Researchers at UMass Amherst found that reducing air exposure, fight times, water temperatures, and increasing angler education are crucial for a sustainable fishery. The team's study revealed that longer fights and higher water temps increase recovery time and stress on striped bass.
The Galapagos and other oceanic islands and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) may be "critical" refuges for sharks in the Tropical Eastern Pacific, as predatory fish appear depleted in more coastal MPAs through fishing pressure
Studies in the Tropical Eastern Pacific indicate that sharks thrive in oceanic islands' MPAs, unlike coastal areas where predatory fish are depleted. The research highlights the importance of these refuges for shark conservation.
Island-wide field surveys illuminate land-sea connections in Mo‘orea
Researchers found that nutrients in lagoons are highest near the island, lower offshore, and linked to human activities on land. Precipitation acts as a key mediator for connections between land use and lagoon waters.