Articles tagged with Marine Ecology
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Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered a unique motor control system in frogfish's first dorsal fin, enabling their 'fishing' behavior. The study reveals how motor neurons changed location as their function shifted from swimming to hunting.
Researchers observed coordinated attacks by killer whales on whale sharks in the Gulf of California, suggesting specialized hunting techniques. The pod targeted the whale shark's ventral side, exploiting its vulnerability, and extracted nutrient-rich organs from the liver.
Heriot-Watt University has developed a world-first visual grading system to measure fibre shedding from clothing, aiming to reduce microplastic pollution in the fashion industry. The five-point scale assesses fibre fragments shed during washing, allowing manufacturers to select low-shedding materials and communicate with consumers.
Researchers have discovered two previously unknown bacterial species in deep-sea corals from the Gulf of Mexico. These bacteria have extremely reduced genomes and lack the ability to break down carbohydrates, surviving on amino acids instead. The discovery provides insights into the unique adaptations of deep-sea organisms.
A global network of Biogeochemical (BGC)-Argo floats provides depth-resolved monitoring of Earth's phytoplankton biomass, revealing 50% of biomass lies beyond satellite detection. The study also shows surface Chla does not accurately predict peak annual biomass timing in two-thirds of the ocean.
Scientists have characterized enzymes involved in the degradation of ethane, a process that plays a crucial role in the biological filter at marine seeps. The study reveals a key aspect of the ethane-degrading microbes and their ability to adapt to different environments.
A study by University of Maine researchers found that American lobster populations are relocating to new habitats, while their numbers are dwindling in abundance. The lobsters are now favoring open spaces over rocky shelters, with a significant increase in those living without shelter at all.
A species of bioluminescent phytoplankton, Pyrocystis noctiluca, has been found to balloon to six times its original size, allowing it to journey up to 200 meters toward the ocean's surface. This unique strategy enables the plankton to control its density and escape the downward pull of gravity.
A new study questions current approaches to predicting vessel strikes on whales, revealing notable inconsistencies across different models. The researchers highlight the need for accurate modeling to mitigate against modern-day risks threatening whale survival.
Researchers used accelerometers to observe the movement and behavior of green turtle hatchlings as they emerge from their nests. The findings show that hatchlings maintain a head-up orientation and move vertically through the sand by rocking forwards and backwards.
Researchers found that dead coral skeletons left after bleaching events protect seaweed from herbivores, enabling its quick colonization and outgrowth over young coral. This complex landscape prevents new corals from settling and surviving on the reef.
Researchers used drone footage to study gray whales' foraging behaviors, finding that younger whales use forward swimming while older whales headstand. The study also revealed that bubble blasts help regulate buoyancy while feeding in shallow water.
A team of researchers discovered that a 'tag-team' between the oceans and continents led to severe environmental crises, causing mass extinctions of marine species. The study found that chemical weathering pulses disrupted the oceans, leading to anoxic events that had profound impacts on marine ecosystems.
A UK-based study reveals that an offshore mussel farm is reviving shellfish reefs off the English south coast, a process previously unseen in 150 years. The research found mussels deposited on the seabed create habitats for commercially important species like European lobsters and brown crabs.
Scientists equipped Australian sea lions with cameras and analyzed the footage to identify six benthic habitats in southern Australia. The study used machine learning models to predict large habitat areas across the continental shelf, contributing to a better understanding of the region's seabed diversity.
A new study reveals that large apex species like tiger sharks and great whites are critical to healthy oceans, but their populations have plummeted by 71% in the past 50 years. Conservation efforts must prioritize protecting these ecological roles to maintain ocean balance.
Researchers sequenced DNA of 87 structurally colored bacteria to identify genes responsible for their glittering structures. The findings could lead to environmentally friendly dyes and materials.
New research reveals oyster sanctuaries contain more abundant populations of oysters and other animal life, despite the presence of parasites. The study found that these areas support higher oyster densities and habitat quality than nearby harvest sites.
A new study reveals the crucial roles of fish and invertebrates in coral reef health, including nutrient boosting and predator protection. However, parasitic snails and destructive crab species also pose a threat to these vital ecosystems.
New research reveals offshore windfarm electromagnetic fields have minimal impact on shark growth and survival, but ongoing studies aim to improve understanding of effects on marine species. The study focused on small-spotted catshark development under control and windfarm-impacted conditions using AC or DC currents.
Research shows that ocean warming and acidification could lead to catastrophic shark embryo survival decline by 2100. Monthly temperature variation plays a significant role in mortality rates.
A new study by RIKEN CSRS shows that biomass from purple photosynthetic marine bacterium Rhodovulum sulfidophilum is an excellent nitrogen fertilizer, effective as inorganic synthetic fertilizers but with lower environmental side effects. The biomass boosts plant growth without altering soil pH or salinity.
A new study found that magnesium levels in sandhoppers increase during cold weather, slowing their activity. In deeper sleep, magnesium levels can more than double, putting the sandhopper into a torpid state and allowing it to conserve energy.
Researchers found sharks maintained high levels of functional diversity for most of the Cenozoic era before declining over the last 10 million years. The decline is attributed to the loss of ecologically unique species, including the megalodon, a key apex predator.
A deadly epidemic discovered last year in the Red Sea has spread to the Indian Ocean, annihilating most sea urchin populations and threatening coral reef stability. The researchers identified a scuticociliate parasite as the cause of the mass mortality.
Researchers have identified heavily used shipping lanes that pass through crucial whale shark feeding grounds, posing a threat to this endangered species. Targeted measures, such as reducing ship speed, could help minimize the impact on the shipping industry while protecting whale sharks.
Researchers discovered that two species of marine bacteria work together to produce vitamin B12, essential for metabolism and survival of many marine organisms. The bacteria release building blocks into the water, which are then combined to form the vitamin through a complex process involving viral infection.
A team of researchers has identified coral as the oldest bioluminescent organism, with a history spanning over 540 million years. This discovery sheds new light on the evolution of organisms and their interactions with other species during the Cambrian era.
A new study by Heriot-Watt University found that large groups of spectator boats can create loud and sustained noise impacting marine mammals, fishes, and invertebrates. The research suggests event organizers should limit the potential impacts of underwater noise from motorized vessels.
Researchers have analyzed over 44,000 high seas survey gear hauls across the North Pacific to create detailed maps showing salmon species' ocean habitats and temperature tolerances. The study highlights varying cold-water tolerance among salmon species, with implications for climate change adaptation.
A Dartmouth-led study found that people in New England, particularly those who frequently consume seafood, face an increased risk of PFAS exposure. The researchers recommend setting safety standards to limit seafood consumption and highlight the need for more stringent public health guidelines.
Despite being in place to rebuild fish populations, marine protected areas have flatlined or declined adult fish populations. Strong enforcement and climate-friendly design are crucial for their success.
A UMass Amherst-led team developed biofilm-resistant glass using UV radiation, which prevents biofilm formation on surfaces in underwater environments. The technology can be used for various applications, including disinfection of transparent surfaces like windows and camera lenses.
The grey seal population is facing new challenges due to climate change and a shortage of prey fish. Hunting quotas of up to 3,000 animals per year may threaten the species' survival if not reduced.
A new study published in Nature Sustainability suggests that decommissioned offshore structures may only provide limited long-term ecological benefits. The research analyzed over 530 scientific studies on the effects of marine artificial structures and found no conclusive evidence to support their use as artificial reefs.
Research reveals changes in Hawaiian coral reef soundscapes tied to lunar cycles, indicating potential impacts on marine life. The study explores moonlight-driven biological choruses and their effects on reef ecosystems.
Salps are found to control microbial community structure and function by capturing a variety of microbe types, including Prochlorococcus. The study reveals that simple mechanical principles do not explain cell capture by salps, indicating a complex mechanism at play.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have discovered a new population of killer whales in the Northeastern Pacific, with distinct physical characteristics and a diet that includes marine mammals and sea turtles. The orcas were identified through shark-bitten scars and observations by fishermen and birding enthusiasts.
A new study reveals that marine heat waves disrupt the ocean food web in the northeast Pacific Ocean, shifting energy and impacting predators and prey. Gelatinous zooplankton thrive during heat waves, drawing energy out of the ecosystem and potentially affecting fish and marine mammals.
Research reveals that rapid-range shift in fish populations is often a sign of impending decline. The study analyzed data from over 2,500 species and found that those shifting at high velocities show marked declines, while core range populations remain relatively stable.
A new eight-year study found that about 60 species of deepwater sharks and rays are threatened with an elevated risk of extinction due to overfishing. The analysis highlights the need for regulating international trade in shark liver oil and protecting 30% of the world's oceans by 2030.
Sea cucumbers, known as the 'janitors' of the ocean, have been found to be a missing component in maintaining healthy coral reefs. Their removal due to overfishing has led to an increase in coral disease and a decline in biodiversity.
Research reveals that bleaching reefs release organic compounds that promote bacterial growth, leading to an increase in opportunistic bacteria and potential pathogens. This shift in microbial communities may harm corals through suffocation or disease.
A new study reveals tiny plankton (0.02mm) make up majority of ocean plankton, playing critical role in ecosystem health and oxygen production. The research emphasizes the need to take these tiny organisms seriously and incorporate them into global ocean policy.
Researchers at Oregon State University discovered that marine heat waves trigger earlier reproduction and high mortality in early life stages of Pacific cod. The study found these changes persisted in subsequent years, potentially impacting the future of Gulf of Alaska's Pacific cod population.
The study identifies Morro do Príncipe as a priority area for conservation of the endangered Johngarthia lagostoma land crab in Brazil. Praia dos Andradas is also considered vital for breeding. The researchers highlight the importance of preserving vegetation to ensure the species' survival.
Researchers at Okayama University uncovered key reproductive characteristics of the red-swamp crayfish, highlighting the importance of hook length and chelae for identifying sexual status. The study also found high reproductive ability and fast growth rates compared to native Japanese crayfish.
A new study demonstrates that identifying and protecting marine ecosystems, known as coral nurseries, is crucial to future coral conservation and restoration efforts. These areas, where coral larvae can survive and thrive, are connected to established coral reefs via nearshore currents and reef structure.
A new study uses machine learning and satellite imagery to create the first global map of large vessel traffic and offshore infrastructure, finding a remarkable amount of activity previously unknown. The analysis reveals that industrial fishing and transport activities are concentrated around Africa and south Asia.
A study published in PNAS reveals that kelp forests and sandy beaches are connected through synchrony, which affects the beach food web's dynamics. The research found patterns of synchrony between kelp abundance, wave action, and beach width, highlighting the importance of kelp subsidies for shorebirds.
A modelling study published in Scientific Reports suggests that rising global temperatures could lead to an expansion of the green turtle's nesting range in the Mediterranean Sea. The authors found that sea surface temperature, salinity, and human population density most affect the suitability of a location as a nesting site.
The study found that England's only resident population of bottlenose dolphins has declined to just 48 individuals due to various human impacts. The researchers call for urgent measures to protect the population and its habitats.
Rising sea temperatures in the Mediterranean may drive juvenile bluefin tuna out of their nurseries, where they'll be caught in existing fisheries, requiring adaptions to fishery methods. The research found that waters above 28 degrees Celsius will adversely impact bluefin growth.
A study by Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology reveals that extracellular vesicles are the primary mechanism for genetic information exchange in the ocean. This discovery challenges traditional views on horizontal gene transfer and highlights the importance of EVs in microbial ecosystems.
A new study has found that non-native species tend to mirror Earth's biodiversity patterns, with around 37,000 invasive species described worldwide. The researchers discovered that certain groups of species, such as mammals and plants, are disproportionately prone to establishing in new areas.
Researchers found a tradeoff between fast growth and heat tolerance in corals, with thermally sensitive algae dominating faster growth but only in cooler water. This study helps predict reef futures and inform conservation strategies, highlighting the complexity of coral growth on a reef.
A H2020-funded project reviewed 'local ecological knowledge' for Greenland and interviewed fishers in West, South and East Greenland. The recommendations are available in English, Danish, and Kalaallisut for informing Greenlandic fisheries policy.
Researchers discovered that true crabs have left the marine environment up to 17 times over the past 100 million years, with most species able to survive in semi-terrestrial habitats. The study's findings provide insights into convergent evolution and the adaptation of crabs to life on land.
Researchers from the University of Plymouth discovered coral reef bleaching at depths previously thought to be resilient, highlighting the vulnerability of mesophotic coral ecosystems to thermal stress. The study suggests that climate change is causing a deepening of the thermocline, leading to increased bleaching in the deeper ocean.
A new study used underwater cameras to assess oyster reef habitats across 12 tributaries in the Chesapeake Bay, finding that unharvested reefs and restored reefs had more complex structures. The results showed an upward trend in habitat scores over time, with unharvested and restored reefs maintaining higher habitat scores consistently.