Articles tagged with Marine Ecosystems
A new study predicts that climate change will transform marine ecosystems in Marine Protected Areas, leading to extinctions and loss of biodiversity. By 2100, warming temperatures could make these areas uninhabitable for most species, with the Arctic and Antarctic regions expected to warm especially quickly.
Recent studies suggest that large predators such as alligators, sea otters, and mountain lions are re-colonizing ecosystems they once occupied due to conservation. This challenges the long-held assumption that these species are habitat specialists. As populations recover, these species are adapting to new habitats with surprising ease,...
A thin smart patch called Marine Skin can track an animal's movement and diving behavior in real-time, while also monitoring the health of the surrounding marine environment. The patch uses stretchable silicone elastomers to withstand high pressures and can be attached to a wide range of sea creatures.
Research found that freshwater systems process excess carbon and nitrogen through photosynthesis and burying phosphorus, reducing ocean pollution. The effectiveness of these processes depends on water residence time in rivers and lakes.
A new review paper highlights the global scope of the underwater munitions problem, with over a million tons of intact and corroding munitions littering the Baltic and North Seas. The chemicals released from these munitions pose significant risks to marine ecosystems, including carcinogenic and cyto- and genotoxic effects.
A new study by Georgia Tech and Georgia Aquarium explores the diverse community of marine microorganisms living in the aquarium's water, revealing dynamic changes over time. The research aims to improve our understanding of these tiny organisms and their impact on aquatic ecosystems.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 to genetically edit coral, demonstrating its potential as a resource for coral biologists. The technique allowed them to identify critical genes in coral biology and alter multiple gene copies, offering hope for conserving coral reefs.
A study on US newspaper articles about ocean health issues found that journalists use more than twice as much optimistic language as 'doom and gloom' language. Nearly half of the examined stories cited potential solutions to problems described in the sample's articles.
A new study reveals that extreme climate variability over the last century has synchronized ecosystem behavior on the West Coast, increasing risks of extinction for marine and terrestrial organisms. This synchrony is linked to changes in winter climate patterns, such as the North Pacific High, which have become more variable over time.
Researchers found that baby fish are deterred by natural sounds in their habitats due to ocean acidification, and instead attracted to 'white noise' from irrelevant habitats. This could lead to smaller population sizes and impacts on commercial fisheries.
Researchers found a 54% increase in marine heatwave days every year, with significant impacts on ecosystems, biodiversity, fisheries, tourism, and aquaculture. The study also revealed an acceleration of the trend in marine heatwaves since 1982, with profound economic consequences.
Experts propose using biological essential ocean variables to assess changes in marine ecosystems and support the Sustainable Development Goals. A new global observing system could help galvanize support for implementing effective measures to address the detrimental impacts of climate change on oceans.
A Master's student at FAU has developed a method to assign blue-green algae fossils to specific species using crystallography. By comparing fossil structures with microfossils, researchers found that blue-green algae have a less structured pattern with many misorientations in crystals.
Researchers analyzed sea star populations along the US west coast and found severe declines in southern California and the Channel Islands. Juvenile sea star mortality increased by approximately 90 percent, while ochre sea stars are a keystone species crucial to intertidal ecosystems.
New research reveals that larger coral reefs can moderate the impact of ocean warming on Caribbean fish populations, leading to a reduction in fish population decline. The study found that doubling reef area can reduce changes in fish composition by 30-80%, highlighting the potential effectiveness of reef conservation and restoration.
A new study analyzing the impact of long-term nutrient reductions reveals a four-fold increase in Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) abundance in the Chesapeake Bay. This unprecedented event suggests that conservation efforts, including EPA's Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), are supporting ecosystem recovery.
Researchers developed an advanced analytical model to optimize multiple uses in a given area, minimizing negative impacts on the environment and other uses. The model increased sector values by millions of dollars and reduced environmental harm by less than 1 percent compared to conventional approaches.
The study provides a high-resolution view of fishing activity, showing that industrial fishing covers over 55% of the ocean's surface and involves over 70,000 vessels. The dataset reveals cultural patterns and ties fishing to politics and culture rather than natural cycles.
A team of scientists from UCSB and Global Fishing Watch analyzed satellite data to track the movements and activities of over 70,000 commercial fishing vessels worldwide. Their findings reveal that cultural patterns and politics play a significant role in shaping fishing practices, while natural cycles such as fish migrations are less ...
Researchers at Tohoku University have identified a new mutant coral symbiont alga that enables the control of symbiotic relationships with its host. The discovery provides a powerful tool for studying coral-algal endosymbiosis and sheds light on mechanisms for maintaining stable symbiosis.
A new study published in Frontiers found microplastics in the stomachs of nearly three out of four mesopelagic fish caught in the Northwest Atlantic, with 73% ingesting pollutants. This high ingestion rate has significant consequences for marine ecosystems and biogeochemical cycling.
North Pacific seabirds' prey preferences have shifted from fish to squid over the last 125 years, driven by commercial fishing and climate change. The findings suggest massive changes in ocean ecosystem structure, with species declining in trophic position and squid consumption increasing.
A team of scientists found that Emiliania huxleyi adapted rapidly to ocean acidification, with some lineages exhibiting extremely rapid changes in ecological fitness. However, the algae's ability to adapt did not translate to better survival in natural conditions.
A recent study published in Science Advances found that CO2 leakage from storage sites can drastically alter seabed ecosystems, leading to the disappearance of animals and disruption of the food chain. The researchers also discovered that some microorganisms can adapt to increased CO2 levels, but most species struggle to cope.
A new study reveals that northern permafrost soils store nearly twice as much mercury as all other soils, the ocean, and the atmosphere combined. The discovery has significant implications for understanding the global mercury cycle and potential environmental consequences of thawing permafrost.
Microplastics in soils and freshwaters can have damaging effects on ecosystems, triggering adverse reactions in organisms and potentially disrupting hormone systems. Humans also ingest microplastics through food, highlighting the need for reliable data on microplastic degradation and effects.
Researchers from NSF LTER sites present findings on coastal and ocean ecosystems, including salt marsh resilience and the impact of sea ice patterns on penguin populations. The study also investigates the diet of blue whales in the California Current and the effects of El Niño events on marine ecosystems.
Researchers developed a model to explore the effect of ocean acidification on coral skeletal growth, finding that acidification influences skeletal density but not extension. The simulation predicted an average decline of around 12.4% in Porites skeletal density across global reef sites by the end of the 21st century.
A new measurement technology has enabled scientists to determine nitrogen oxide concentrations in the ocean for the first time in 30 years. Low oxygen levels are linked to NO production, according to a recent study published in Deep-Sea Research Part II.
A new study warns of long-lasting consequences from seabed mining, which could destroy deep-sea ecosystems and affect marine life globally. The research highlights the need for precautions and alternative approaches to mitigate potential harm.
The California sea lion population has fully rebounded under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), reaching carrying capacity in 2008. The species' recovery reflects an important success for the MMPA, which recognized marine mammals as a central element of their ocean ecosystems.
Researchers discovered significantly smaller eyes and tails in fish from coral reefs subjected to intense commercial shark fishing, highlighting the impact of human-driven shark declines on marine ecosystems. This finding underscores the urgent need to understand the consequences of shark removals on ecosystem dynamics.
A new study reveals that plankton body size negatively affects its dispersal scale, with smaller species being more dispersed by ocean currents. This understanding is crucial for predicting how marine ecosystems will respond to global change.
A study by University of Chicago scientists found that mass extinctions removed species but retained ecological variety, whereas environmental changes lead to significant losses in functional diversity. The researchers analyzed two major mass extinctions and discovered a pattern of survival among functional groups.
Researchers have developed an automated bird recognition system using spectrographic analysis of bird calls and songs, improving accuracy by reducing background noise and applying pattern recognition techniques.
Researchers at the University of Sydney conducted an experiment involving over 500 aquarium visitors, showing a decrease in shark fear and blame after understanding shark behavior. The study challenges perceived public support for lethal measures, advocating for a conservation focus instead.
The lack of sea snakes in the Atlantic Ocean is attributed to geographical barriers such as the Isthmus of Panama blocking access to the Caribbean. Additionally, cold water temperatures and freshwater scarcity in the Eastern Hemisphere hinder their survival.
A €1.9 million research project will explore the complex roles played by marine planktonic fungi, known as mycoplankton, in the cycling of carbon in the sea. The MYCO-CARB project will use innovative approaches to assess active mycoplankton diversity and abundance across various ecosystems.
Researchers used drones to take aerial photographs of leopard seals, finding they can accurately estimate body size and mass. This non-invasive method could be used to assess body condition in other pinnipeds, tracking responses to environmental changes and managing marine ecosystems.
Scientists have discovered a cryptic ecosystem in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, where methane and bacteria form the basis of a food web dominated by crustaceans. The study provides a model for coastal groundwater ecology and establishes a baseline for evaluating the impact of stressors on these ecosystems.
Researchers at Northeastern University are working to bridge the 'practice science gap' by connecting practitioners with biodiversity research. The goal is to improve restoration project outcomes by applying scientific knowledge to practical implementation.
Researchers at Caltech have characterized the adaptations of Mono Lake flies, enabling them to crawl underwater without getting wet. The flies create a protective bubble around their bodies using an extreme water-repelling phenomenon called superhydrophobicity.
Climate change is altering Scotland's seabirds' diet, with European Shags increasing their diversity of fish prey. Warmer waters signal changes in sandeel availability and hunting habits, potentially impacting conservation efforts.
A new study published in Marine Policy predicts that Pacific Island nations will lose 50 to 80 percent of marine species in their waters by the end of the 21st century. Climate change is expected to make these waters warmer, less oxygenated, and more acidic, leading to widespread extinctions.
Researchers created detailed photomosaics of the coral reef at Palmyra Atoll, discovering non-random clustering and a link between coral growth and reproductive strategy. The findings have implications for coral reef management and conservation.
The EU's Horizon 2020 program funds a €6 million project to transform problematic jellyfish into valuable resources. Researchers will analyze jellyfish life cycles and explore their use in producing microplastic filters, fertilizers, and fish feed. They also aim to develop biofilters to combat microplastic pollution.
A new study by QUT researchers has developed an advanced statistical model to predict when dredging is least likely to damage seagrass. The model can provide up to a fourfold reduction in recovery time and up to a 35 per cent reduction in local extinction risk for seagrass species.
Analyses of satellite sensing data show Red Sea's maximum surface temperatures increasing at a rate of 0.17°C per decade, four times faster than the global ocean warming rate. This rapid warming poses a threat to marine biodiversity in the region.
Researchers at the University of Kansas are launching a three-year study to identify how microplastics enter US waters, with goals to engage municipalities and create a publically accessible database. The study aims to quantify plastics release from municipal wastewater treatment plants and estimate national release estimates.
The CLAIM project focuses on developing new strategies for prevention and in-situ management of marine litter, particularly in the Mediterranean and Baltic Sea. The project will test innovative technologies such as automated cleaning devices, photocatalytic devices, and thermal treatment devices to reduce plastic debris in these areas.
A study published in Palaeontology found that the Late Triassic mass extinction did not fundamentally alter marine ecosystem function. Despite significant species loss, marine ecosystems continued to operate with reduced diversity among remaining species.
Ocean data from Northeast Greenland reveals long-term impact of ice sheet melting on freshwater content, affecting fjords and global ocean circulation. The study finds that increased freshwater input reduces plankton algae production, impacting fish stocks and potentially European climate.
Scientists have discovered a new species of jellyfish, the bay nettle jelly (Chrysaora chesapeakei), in the Chesapeake Bay. These jellies are smaller and have fewer tentacles than their ocean cousins, highlighting the importance of marine ecosystems.
A new study uses DNA analysis of albatross feces to assess their diet and interactions with fisheries, revealing a high level of fishery involvement in some areas. This non-invasive technique provides a valuable tool for improving fisheries management and monitoring marine biodiversity.
Researchers used satellite imagery and simulations to explore the role of currents in the Red Sea biosphere, finding significant variability in eddies that facilitate transport and dispersal. The study's findings suggest water circulation patterns play a significant role in determining the distribution of Red Sea clownfish populations.
A recent study published in Nature found that biodiversity is a more powerful predictor of biomass production than climate change, with diverse ecosystems producing higher biomass and toppling climate as the most important factor. The research, conducted by a team at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, analyzed data from ove...
A new study suggests that coastal marine ecosystems can be better managed with restoration instead of protection on limited budgets, according to researchers from the University of Queensland. The model compared scenarios of restoration versus protection and found that active marine restoration may be the most cost-effective way over d...
New research suggests that corals build their hard, calcium carbonate skeletons faster and in bigger pieces than previously thought. This active construction method helps them grow much faster and with greater control.
Scientists warn of alarming gaps in basic knowledge of deep sea life as human activities intensify. Despite this, recent technological advancements enable the collection of genetic information about populations, shedding light on their interconnectedness.
A team of scientists from the University of Plymouth is developing potential new antimicrobials produced by the microbiome of deep-sea sponges. They have already cultured over 100 novel bacterial strains, some of which can kill MRSA, and are on the lookout for other applications in cancer, immune deficiency, and wound healing.