Research on ocean life and coastal ecosystems. Covers ocean carbon protection, sea turtles, plankton and food webs, and warming-driven whale feeding.
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.
Researchers tracked VMS data to detect changes in albacore abundance due to marine heatwaves, revealing the potential of fishing fleets as ecosystem sentinels. The study highlights the importance of using near-real-time data to monitor ecosystem health and prevent fishery collapses.
Researchers found that some phage-resistant mutations enhance bacteria's ability to sink carbon, while others slow down growth rates. The study suggests that the selection of surface mutants may play a key role in marine biological pump and carbon export.
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.
A new USF-led study found a dramatic decline in some historic sargassum populations due to ocean warming and changes in their distribution. This shift could affect the health of marine ecosystems as sargassum supports high biodiversity for various marine species.
Humpback whales are experiencing a significant recovery, with an estimated population of 80,000, thanks to their ability to adapt to changing food sources. Researchers observed humpback whales switching from polar cod to krill in response to changes in the Senyavin Strait ecosystem.
New research reveals drift logs causing widespread destruction of rocky intertidal ecosystems, leading to population decline in barnacle beds and interstitial invertebrates. This disturbance is comparable to ice-scouring or heatwaves, emphasizing the need for conservation measures to protect organisms in the intertidal zone.
A new study reveals that ocean acidification is accelerating at a rate outpacing atmospheric CO2 levels, with the Northeastern Pacific Ocean experiencing rapid acidification. The research analyzed coral skeletons from the past century, showing that CO2 has been accumulating in North American waters faster than in the atmosphere.
Researchers used drones to create detailed maps of a high-density nesting beach, identifying steepness and proximity to dune crossover stairs as key factors influencing turtle nesting success. The study provides insights into how changing coastal conditions affect sea turtle habitats, informing conservation policy and coastal development.
Researchers captured first known underwater footage of humpback whale calves nursing in Quandamooka Sea Country. The study found frequent bouts of nursing in around half of tagged individuals, supporting the bay's critical role as a humpback whale nursery and rest area.
The project aims to quantify the link between water conditions, fish populations, and wading bird nesting success in the Florida Everglades. Researchers will collect data on aquatic prey and habitat conditions during the dry season to provide essential insight into restoration efforts.
A University of Houston biologist has received a $2.16 million federal grant to study how some coastal frogs survive in salty environments. The research could reveal how cells cope with salt stress and have implications for understanding the health risks of high-salt diets in humans.
A new study finds that deep-sea mining waste can disrupt marine life in the midwater 'twilight zone', where vast communities of zooplankton support the ocean's food system. The waste, released during a 2022 mining trial, has lower concentrations of amino acids, threatening the delicate balance of the food web.
Researchers analyzed sediment cores from three sites in the Arctic, finding that year-round ice coverage corresponded with less cosmic dust. This study suggests that tracking cosmic dust can help predict changes to sea ice coverage and understand warming trends.
Research reveals that strong winds transport phosphorus to the ocean's surface, benefiting cyanobacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by Sargassum algae. This symbiotic relationship gives Sargassum a competitive advantage in the Equatorial Atlantic and explains past changes in biomass.
A new perspective on Asia-pacific marine ecosystems proposes integrating physical oceanography, environmental genomics, and ecological observations to enhance biodiversity monitoring. This approach aims to strengthen international collaboration and protect the region's most diverse marine life.
A new study has found that the Southern Ocean releases substantially more carbon dioxide during the dark austral winter than previously thought. The findings suggest that the region plays a more complex and dynamic role in the global carbon cycle, with implications for climate models.
Researchers used global environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys to map marine fish species' geographic ranges. These findings highlight current biases in conservation efforts and ecological models.
A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) in the Western Weddell Sea uncovered extensive maintained fish nesting grounds, revealing patterns and organization, which are thought to be a survival strategy. The discovery provides critical insights into Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems and their importance for biodiversity.
A new study reveals that different prey within a single species can provide vastly different levels of nutrition for marine predators. This variation can lead to predators consuming more prey than necessary, highlighting the importance of understanding prey quality in maintaining ecosystem balance.
Researchers describe 14 new marine invertebrate species and two genera from worldwide oceans, shedding light on deep-sea life. The study utilizes non-invasive micro-CT scanning to provide unprecedented clarity on internal tissues and soft-body parts.
Researchers tracked oceanic manta rays and found they dive to depths over 1,200 meters to gather information about their environment and navigate across the open ocean. These dives are linked with increased horizontal travel afterwards, suggesting a mental mapping function.
Researchers aim to fill the knowledge gap on Antarctic marine viruses, particularly RNA viruses, to understand their ecological importance. They highlight the need for further research on viral tagging, single-cell sequencing, and studying the marginal ice zone to expand our understanding of these viruses.
A new study from the University of Gothenburg reveals that trawling restrictions have led to a significant increase in marine life, particularly among filter-feeding species like mussels and soft corals. However, heat-sensitive species are declining at shallow depths due to warmer water temperatures, driven by climate change.
A team of international marine scientists urges reform to licensing and regulation of coastal restoration projects. The authors argue outdated systems hinder progress toward ambitious global targets to restore 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030.
A new USF study suggests that nutrient upwelling and biological productivity remained stable despite higher global temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific. The researchers found no evidence of reduced nitrate concentrations, a key nutrient for plankton, over the last five million years.
A global alliance of microbiology organizations has unveiled a joint strategy to integrate microbial science into climate policy, innovation and public discourse. The strategy aims to recognize microbes as vital allies in the fight against climate change and chart a clear course for microbiology organizations to lead by example.
The MiningImpact project is investigating the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining on ocean ecosystems. Scientists are studying biodiversity, genetic connectivity, and ecosystem health to develop indicators and threshold values for harm.
New research from Simon Fraser University finds that Pacific salmon face escalating threats from industrial development, climate change, and uncoordinated regulation. The authors suggest a cumulative effects management cycle to address gaps in policy and ensure enforceable thresholds.
The Mediterranean Sea is warming at a faster rate than the open ocean, posing significant risks to marine ecosystems. The study highlights the urgent need for action to protect these unique ecosystems, which could collapse or remain functional depending on political decisions made now.
A new study suggests that the shift from eelgrass to widgeon grass in the Chesapeake Bay could lead to a 63% reduction in invertebrate biomass by 2060. The change may favor smaller creatures and reduce the total animal biomass per square meter, impacting fisheries and ecosystem functions.
UCSB researchers warn that the ocean's cumulative impact will double by 2050 due to climate change and human activities. The tropics and poles are expected to experience the fastest changes in impacts, with coastal areas bearing the brunt of the increased pressures.
A new study found that when Hanauma Bay was closed to the public during the 2020 pandemic, the reef quickly returned to more natural levels. This led to clearer water, increased sightings of endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and more active fish populations.
A recent study found that 62% of whale sharks in the Bird's Head Seascape off Indonesian West Papua have scars and injuries from preventable human causes. Simple interventions, such as modifying traditional fishing platforms and boat designs, could greatly lessen this burden on the local population.
A new study found potentially concerning concentrations of domoic acid in wild sea stars, which could have cascading consequences for marine biodiversity. The researchers also observed behavioral and physiological changes in response to the neurotoxin, raising concerns about its potential impacts on keystone species.
A new ASU study identifies the most polluted areas of coastline in West Hawaiʻi and targets for remediation, providing critical data needed to mitigate sewage contamination. The research found that cesspools, septic systems, and coastal urban development are highly predictive of water contamination.
A new study reveals that heat can transform refractory organic matter into forms usable by microbes living far below the seafloor. This process, known as carbon-reactivation, occurs at temperatures above 35 °C and provides a significant energy source for deep Earth ecosystems.
A new study found that kelp forests within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) recover more quickly after marine heatwaves, particularly in southern California. This suggests that MPAs can support ecosystem resilience to climate events like marine heatwaves.
A new study by William & Mary's Batten School and VIMS shows that tidal marshes in Virginia's Middle Peninsula generate approximately $90 million annually in economic value. The study also developed an online tool called SHORE-BET to help local planners and landowners weigh the long-term benefits of shoreline strategies.
Researchers have identified a previously undocumented class of PFAS in the blubber of killer whales, accumulating in fat-rich blubber. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that PFAS primarily bind to proteins and accumulate in liver or blood.
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework sets robust targets for protecting marine biodiversity, addressing its complexity and variability. By focusing on key indicators such as species distribution, genetic diversity, and ecosystem structure, policymakers can track changes and implement effective conservation measures.
Researchers found humpback whales lose 11,000kg of blubber during annual migrations, equivalent to energy from 57,000 kg of Antarctic krill. The study reveals a dramatic seasonal change in body condition, with whales fattest in autumn and slimmest in spring.
A recent study led by Kelton McMahon at the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography found that coral reef food webs are more fragmented and specialized than thought. The researchers used a novel technique called compound-specific stable isotope analysis to trace energy flows through the ecosystem, revealing distinc...
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute have developed a multi-sensor biologging tag on the whitespotted eagle ray, enabling long attachment times and detailed data collection. The study provides insights into the rays' behavior, habitat use, and social interactions.
A new study by Macquarie University researchers found that adding colour to concrete panels increased marine biodiversity in Sydney Harbour. The team discovered that red panels supported communities distinct from other coloured panels, attracting higher numbers of green algae and barnacles.
A new study by Simon Fraser University warns that fish sounds and noise pollution are left out of critical conservation policies. This omission can have significant impacts on fish reproduction, population sizes, and ultimately, species survival.
Researchers will study how ocean currents and nutrients from land influence the health and productivity of MCEs, which support diverse marine life and important fisheries. The project aims to fill critical knowledge gaps and provide science-based solutions for environmental protection and sustainable growth in the gulf region.
A study suggests that eliminating invasive rats can restore the flow of nutrients across food chain networks in Seychelles, potentially enhancing ecosystem function on coral reefs. Seabird populations play a mediating role in this process by increasing turf algae growth and stimulating top-down controls.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology discovered that ship traffic triggers large methane emissions in shallow areas, including ports. The study found that cruise and container ships caused the most frequent and largest measured methane releases.
Researchers have confirmed the presence of Barbonymus schwanefeldii (tinfoil barb) in Laguna de Bay, Philippines' largest freshwater lake. The invasive species can outcompete native fish for food and breeding grounds, posing long-term ecological consequences.
A USC-developed shipboard system using limestone and seawater can remove up to half of carbon dioxide emitted from shipping vessels, cutting maritime CO2 emissions by 50%. The process mimics a natural chemical reaction in the ocean, where CO2 is absorbed into water pumped onboard and then neutralized through a bed of limestone.
Killer whales have been observed detaching kelp stalks and using them to massage each other's backs, a behavior dubbed "allokelping". This social bonding behavior may promote skin health and strengthen relationships among the whales.
Researchers developed a model to detect early signs of marsh decline using satellite observations, identifying vulnerable areas along Georgia's coast. The study found belowground biomass has declined across 72% of Georgia's coastal marsh since 2014.
Research shows that island rivers shape reef passes, allowing seawater and nutrients to flow in and out. The locations of reef passes align with where rivers funnel out from an island's coast, providing circulation throughout the reef.
A new study reveals that wildfires have a profound impact on water systems, affecting microbial communities and nutrient cycling. The researchers found that moderate heat processing from fires leads to more bioavailable carbon for microbes, but also disrupts the nitrogen cycle and natural balance of aquatic ecosystems.
Marine microalgae Heterosigma akashiwo forms aggregates of buoyant microplastics through extracellular polymeric substances, increasing their density and causing them to sink. The sinking velocity of these aggregates is significant for understanding the behavior of microplastics in marine ecosystems.
A recent study across 3,058 populations reveals that 24% of Wadden Sea species are declining significantly, while only 14% are increasing. The declines affect native species and those at the base of the food web, highlighting a potential warning signal of local extinction.
A recent study documents the discovery of over 100 new ribbon worm species off Oman's coast, highlighting a significant underestimation of global marine biodiversity. The finding underscores the importance of exploring lesser-studied regions, such as the tropics, to uncover the full extent of oceanic diversity.
A study by University of California - Davis and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute found that cleaner fish stations influence damselfish and reef microbial diversity. The presence of cleaning gobies was linked to increased fish visits and changes in water nutrients and microbial communities.
Coral reefs are found to be more productive ecosystems than previously thought, with 80% occurring in nutrient-rich conditions. The study challenges the 'Darwin's Paradox' narrative and highlights the importance of understanding linkages between reef animals and their surroundings.