Tiny, but effective
Gelatinous zooplankton contributes significantly to marine carbon cycle, binding large amounts of carbon transported into deep ocean. This contribution is quantified for the first time globally using over 90,000 observations.
Marine Ecosystems
Articles tagged with Marine Ecosystems
The global reef expedition: French Polynesia
A comprehensive study of French Polynesia's coral reefs has been conducted, revealing the healthiest reefs are found around islands with low elevation. The study also found that cyclones and crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks have decimated reefs in some areas.
Seasonal forecasts challenged by Pacific Ocean warming
Global warming affects Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) predictability, leading to less time for gains in strength and intensity. This challenges regional climate forecasting on multi-year timescales.
USC scientists show evolutionary principle in microbes of offshore Southern California
A comprehensive new study by USC marine biologists reveals a stable virus community in the ocean, with constant churning of mutants allowing them to adapt and survive. The findings support the Red Queen hypothesis, suggesting that microbes must constantly evolve to outcompete each other.
International ocean experts kick-off COP25 Oceans Actions Day
Key findings from COP25 Oceans Actions Day highlight the importance of protecting Blue Carbon Ecosystems, including mangroves and seagrasses. The event emphasizes the crucial role of oceans in achieving sustainable development goals and reducing climate change vulnerability.
Researchers to help protect some of the world's most vulnerable marine ecosystems
The MOVE-ON project aims to produce sustainable development and ecosystem management models for EU overseas territories in the Caribbean and Pacific oceans. Researchers will investigate ecological conditions and develop conceptual models of ecosystem services provision according to the quality of marine ecosystems.
Marine oxygenation during Snowball Earth
Research suggests oxygenated ocean waters existed during the 'Snowball Earth' ice ages, allowing aerobic eukaryotes to survive. Iron isotope ratios and cerium anomalies in iron formations indicate input from oxygenated meltwater from the ice sheet base.
EuroSea: Gathering more knowledge for a sustainable use of the ocean
The EuroSea project is an international consortium of 55 partners aiming to improve ocean observation in Europe and beyond. The project focuses on combining existing capacities, filling gaps, and making data available to users more easily.
Underwater robotic gliders provide key tool to measure ocean sound levels
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed an effective method to use underwater robotic gliders to measure sound levels over broad areas of the sea. The gliders can conduct repeated surveys of a region, providing real-time measurements of changing noise levels and helping scientists track ocean sound pollution.
Typhoons and marine eutrophication are probably the missing source of organic nitrogen in ecosystems
Researchers found that typhoons and eutrophic surface sea waters may be significant sources of dissolved organic nitrogen (ON) in wet deposition. Approximately one-third of total ON wet deposition was attributed to the co-occurrence of intense events like typhoons and strong rainfall.
Chimera formation could favor the expansion of invasive species in the marine environment
Researchers found that 44% of colonies of the invasive species Didemnum vexillum are formed by gene chimera, which could promote genetic diversity and colonization success. The creation of chimera may also be a mechanism to increase adaptive success in new environments.
Huge gaps in research on microplastics in North America, PSU study finds
A new study highlights the need for more research on microplastics in North American waters, particularly among commercially important fish species. The team's findings emphasize the importance of understanding microplastic exposure and effects on populations and food webs to inform fisheries management decisions.
Satellites are key to monitoring ocean carbon
Satellites are now essential for monitoring ocean carbon levels, which helps slow climate change. The new study highlights the potential of increased satellite exploitation to fill critical knowledge gaps in ocean monitoring.
First in-depth study of marine fungi and their cell-division cycles emerges from MBL
A team of scientists has discovered 35 species of marine fungi with unconventional cell division cycles, challenging classical models. The study aims to understand how fungi interact with environments and potentially uncover new biology in the vast marine biosphere.
Mountain streams emit a surprising amount of CO2
A recent study found that mountain streams have a higher average CO2 emission rate per square meter than lower-altitude streams due to additional turbulence. The scientists developed a model to estimate natural CO2 emissions from over 1.8 million mountain streams worldwide, indicating geological sources as the primary origin of CO2.
Scientists tout ocean protection progress, give road map for more
Scientists report that over one-third of ocean areas under protected status result from the annual Our Ocean Conference. The conference has driven meaningful action and elevated ocean issues on the international stage, with 4.8% of the global ocean area now protected.
California's crashing kelp forest
A study found that a perfect storm of events led to the decline of California's bull kelp forests, resulting in the loss of over 90% of kelp and 96% of red abalone. Purple sea urchin populations exploded, devouring all available food sources. However, researchers are exploring urchin ranching as a potential solution to restore kelp beds.
New deep-water coral discovered
Researchers have discovered a new species of deep-water coral, Psammogorgia pax, in the Pacific Ocean off Panama. This find is significant for its contribution to understanding the ecology and biodiversity of mesophotic coral communities, which are difficult to access and require increased protection.
Mapping global biodiversity change
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.
Global biodiversity crisis is a large-scale reorganization, with greatest loss in tropical oceans
A new analysis reveals that global biodiversity is undergoing a large-scale reorganization, with the greatest loss of species in tropical marine biomes. The study, published in Science, suggests that conservation efforts should be tailored to local contexts and locations.
Human and clam co-history
A study examines the relationship between humans and butter clams in the Salish Sea over 11,500 years. Traditional management practices led to thriving clam populations despite heavy harvesting pressure.
Has global warming stopped? The tap of incoming energy cannot be turned off
Researchers explore energy redistribution between atmosphere and ocean, finding no slowdown in global warming when ocean heat content is considered. Oceanic warming poses a threat to marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
Scientists 'must be allowed to cry' about destruction of nature
Researchers argue that ignoring grief can cloud judgment, inhibit creativity and make it harder to find solutions. They propose that support for environmental scientists could improve their ability to think creatively about the future.
New research puts Australia at forefront of blue carbon economy
Australian marine ecosystems absorb and emit large amounts of greenhouse gases, including 20 million tonnes of CO2 annually. Human damage causes 3 million tonnes to be released back into the atmosphere, highlighting the importance of conservation and restoration.
Preparing for the future
A new multidisciplinary study examines projected changes to the Santa Barbara coast and provides recommendations for adaptation. Key impacts include rising temperatures, increased flooding and erosion, and more frequent droughts.
Viruses as modulators of interactions in marine ecosystems
A team of scientists discovered a giant virus genome in choanoflagellates, unicellular predators that eat bacteria and small algae. The virus encodes genes for microbial rhodopsin proteins, which are also found in vertebrates and help detect light.
OSU ecologist: Ocean-based actions can close gaps in climate change mitigation
According to a new paper by OSU professor Jane Lubchenco, ocean-based activities have significant potential to help reach the 1.5-degree Celsius target by 2050. The report analyzes five categories of ocean-based solutions to reduce emissions, including renewable energy and protecting marine ecosystems.
Ocean's key role in achieving climate goals
Acting on ocean-focused emissions activities can significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The implementation of changes in research, technology, and policy development could lead to a substantial reduction in global emissions by nearly 11 billion tons in 2050.
Tale of 2 climate crises gives clues to the present
Researchers analyze two recent global warming events, the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary and Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, to understand how oceans, animals, and plants respond to rapid climate change. The studies reveal that both events were caused by massive greenhouse gas releases, including carbon emissions from volcanic eruptions.
UMass Amherst climate scientist contributes to IPCC session
A UMass Amherst climate scientist is contributing to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate. The report assesses the latest scientific knowledge on sea-level rise, ocean changes, and their impacts on coastal communities.
Study confirms Monterey Bay Aquarium surrogate-reared sea otters helped restore threatened population
A study confirms that surrogate-reared sea otters and their wild offspring account for over half of Elkhorn Slough's population growth, with similar survival rates to those reared by wild mothers. The program's success has implications for rebuilding sea otter populations in other California estuaries.
Hurricane Nicole sheds light on how storms impact deep ocean
A new study by MBL and BIOS scientists found that hurricanes like Nicole significantly affect the ocean's biological pump, accelerating the transfer of carbon from surface to deeper ocean layers. This boost provides a crucial source of food for marine life in the deep ocean.
Special issue, 'mountain life,' celebrates Alexander von Humboldt's lasting legacy
This special issue highlights von Humboldt's lasting legacy on mountain ecology and environment. Research focuses on species richness, biodiversity evolution, and soil microbial communities in response to climate change.
New study tracks sulfur-based metabolism in the open ocean
Scientists have discovered a day-night rhythm in sulfonate metabolism, reflecting the activity of photosynthetic organisms in the open ocean. The study uses phytoplankton and ocean bacteria to track sulfur-based metabolism, providing insights into the global carbon cycle.
Flathead Bio Station researcher helps uncover ocean iron level mystery
Researchers discovered that Asian dust brings nutrients to the ocean, affecting plankton growth and nutrient availability. The study confirms how tightly coupled plankton biology is to iron supply from the atmosphere, highlighting the need for considering atmospheric and ocean circulation variability in forecasting climate change impacts.
$20 million grant awarded to Maine institutes for DNA-based ocean monitoring
The project aims to develop a cutting-edge, DNA-based toolset to monitor aquatic life in coastal waters and support sustainable fisheries, protect vulnerable species, and manage climate change impacts. eDNA techniques will provide a comprehensive view of marine life and validate the approach as an important tool for ecosystem management.
Microplastics in Arctic snow suggest widespread air pollution
Researchers analyzed snow samples from remote areas and European cities, finding high concentrations of microplastics in Arctic snow. These tiny particles, often used in synthetic fabrics and other materials, contribute significantly to air pollution and may pose health risks, including lung cancer.
Climate change likely to increase human exposure to toxic methylmercury
Researchers found that warming oceans are driving up methylmercury levels in fish due to increased energy consumption and changing diets. As sea temperatures rise, fish use more energy to swim, requiring them to consume more calories, which can lead to higher mercury levels.
New study: Ocean temperature 'surprises' becoming more common
A new study reveals ocean temperature 'surprises' are becoming more common, disrupting natural and human communities. The research found nearly double the expected rate of warming events globally, with significant impacts on marine ecosystems and decision-making strategies for ocean resource management.
Marine ecosystems and ocean temperatures
A study finds that global warming is increasing unexpected ocean temperatures in large marine ecosystems, threatening their diversity and productivity. Forward-looking strategies are more advantageous for adaptation, suggesting that many LMEs will push to their limits due to extreme ocean temperatures.
The urbanization of the beach
The urbanization of Southern California's beaches has led to a loss of biodiversity, with some beaches showing up to half of their natural inhabitants missing. The disturbance caused by grooming and filling with the wrong sand further exacerbates this issue, impacting the ecosystem health and coastal ecosystems.
Magnetic 'springs' break down marine microplastic pollution
Researchers have developed a new approach to purging water sources of microplastics using tiny coil-shaped carbon-based magnets, known as magnetic nanosprings. These stable catalysts can remove a significant fraction of microplastics in just eight hours and are also magnetic, making them easy to collect for repeated use.
A toxic chemical in marine ecosystems turns out to play a beneficial role
Researchers discovered that reactive oxygen species, once thought to cause cellular damage, actually protect phytoplankton cells from overproducing a compound used for photosynthesis. This finding challenges conventional wisdom and may have implications for understanding ocean resilience to climate change.
Jumbo squid mystery solved
A Stanford-led study identifies shifting weather patterns and ocean conditions as contributing factors to the collapse of Mexico's jumbo squid fishery. The research found that warmer waters led to smaller, less profitable squid, shutting down the entire industry in the Gulf of California.
Modeling predicts blue whales' foraging behavior, aiding population management efforts
Researchers predict blue whales' most likely foraging areas and times using satellite tracking data and environmental factors. The model improves understanding of the species-environment relationship, helping inform population management decisions amid climate change.
Salt regulation among saltmarsh sparrows evolved in 4 unique ways
Four sparrow species adapt differently to control water and salt balance, with Savannah Sparrows using channel-forming genes, Swamp Sparrows evolving gene changes, Song Sparrows reinforcing cell walls, and Nelson's Sparrows curbing thirst. The adaptations are rapid and accompanied by shared traits like larger bills and darker plumage.
Coralline algal cryptic species diversity
Research on coralline algal diversity reveals fewer species and less diversity in urchin barrens compared to kelp forests with sea otters. The study suggests that cryptic species identification alters ecosystem dynamics perception.
NASA satellites find biggest seaweed bloom in the world
Scientists have discovered a massive seaweed bloom stretching from West Africa to the Gulf of Mexico, dubbed the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt. The belt of brown algae is likely here to stay due to ocean currents and changing chemistry, potentially leading to ecosystem shifts.
Martindale awarded NSF CAREER Grant for paleontological research and education
Rowan Martindale received a $570,000 NSF CAREER Grant to study ancient ocean ecosystems' responses to rapid global change. Her research focuses on the Early Jurassic's Moroccan High Atlas Mountains ecosystem collapse, which parallels modern climate change impacts.
FEFU scientist reported on concentration of pesticides in marine organisms
A study by FEFU ecologist Vasiliy Tsygankov reveals a significant decrease in pesticide concentrations in Russian Far Eastern mussels, suggesting a shift in the environmental situation. Pesticides accumulate in marine organisms' fat tissue and can lead to biomagnification, causing poisoning and genetic changes.
New species of rock-eating shipworm identified in freshwater river in the Philippines
A newly identified genus and species of freshwater clam, Lithoredo abatanica, was found to eat rocks and expel sand as it burrows in the Abatan River. The shipworm's unique anatomy has revealed new information about its ecosystem engineering capabilities.
€10 million Atlantic survey seeks to uncover health of deep ocean
A €10 million, four-year project will assess the Atlantic's health using latest technologies, combining data on marine life, habitats, and human activities. The study aims to provide unprecedented insights into climate change's effects on plant and animal life in the Atlantic.
Changing how we predict coral bleaching
Researchers developed an algorithm using over 30 years of satellite data to isolate extreme warming events leading to documented coral bleaching in the Red Sea. The findings suggest that coral bleaching may have been greatly underestimated and indicate a emerging pattern of extreme warming events in the northern region.
Distant processes influence marine heatwaves around the world
An international team, led by Australian researchers, has published a first-of-its-kind study assessing the major drivers of global marine heatwaves. They found that known climate phenomena, such as El Niño and North Atlantic Oscillation, can increase the odds of marine heatwaves in other regions thousands of kilometres away.
Climate oscillation and nutrient limitation in North Pacific
Interannual fluctuations in phosphorus concentrations and iron-rich dust transport are reported in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre. Climate variation leads to oscillations between iron-limited and phosphorus-limited states, with significant correlations observed with the Pacific Decadal Oscillation.
Sediment from fishing choking out sea sponges, study shows
Research shows sediment stirred up by human activity is harming glass sea sponges in northern British Columbia. The sediment can smother sponges from the outside or clog their filtration system, leading to sponge death and ecosystem disruption.
Frogs find refuge in elephant tracks
A new study found that rain-filled tracks of Asian elephants provide temporary habitat for breeding and connect frog populations. The tracks can persist for a year or more, serving as stepping stones for the frogs during the dry season.
Mass die-off of puffins recorded in the Bering Sea
A mass die-off of puffins and Crested auklets was recorded in the Bering Sea due to climate-driven food shifts, with reduced prey resources potentially leading to starvation. The study suggests that future research should investigate seabird resilience in a changing environment.
Fossil zooplankton indicate that marine ecosystems have entered the Anthropocene
Researchers found that modern plankton communities are systematically different from pre-industrial times, reflecting global warming. The study suggests that species communities have shifted their distribution in response to temperature change.
Amatzia Genin selected as Fellow of The Oceanography Society
Dr. Genin's selection recognizes his creative and comprehensive studies on bio-physical interactions and marine ecosystems. He has been a leading expert on coral reef ecology and oceanography of the Gulf of Aqaba and adjoining Red Sea.