Articles tagged with Marine Ecosystems
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A collaborative research team published findings in Ecological Indicators on a new marine ecosystem support tool to improve decision-making by natural resource managers. The MARES project integrates ecosystem science and societal benefits into a management framework, providing exportable technology for other coastal ecosystems.
A new species of pontarachnid mite was discovered in a Caribbean mesophotic coral ecosystem, collected from nearly 70m depth. The study highlights the potential biodiversity hotspot for marine arthropods in these ecosystems.
The NOAA and its partners predict a significant cyanobacteria bloom in western Lake Erie, expected to be smaller than the 2013 bloom. The forecast uses satellite data, analysis of nutrient flow, and independent models to classify blooms by concentration and spread across the lake's western basin.
New research reveals whales have a powerful impact on oceans, global carbon storage, and commercial fisheries. The recovery of great whale populations may buffer marine ecosystems from climate change threats by recycling nutrients and enhancing productivity.
The Mediterranean Sea's iconic ecosystems, such as sea grass meadows and coral reefs, are facing rapid decline due to acidification and warming. Research suggests that human society worldwide must reduce fossil fuel emissions to save these ecosystems from extinction.
Researchers from the University of Bristol and China studied trackways formed on an ancient seabed to determine how nothosaurs, marine reptiles that lived during the age of dinosaurs, propelled themselves through water. The evidence suggests that these creatures moved over the seafloor by rowing their forelimbs in unison.
A historic epidemic of sea star wasting syndrome has exploded along Oregon's coast, with 30-50% of ochre sea stars affected and potentially leading to local extinctions. The outbreak could disrupt the marine intertidal ecosystem, causing widespread damage.
A new study has overturned the long-used 'Neutral Theory of Biodiversity' by revealing its flaw: it fails to capture the crucial role of abundant species. The research, covering a vast array of marine ecosystems worldwide, found that these dominant species deliver essential ecosystem services.
A study reveals that bottom trawling causes intensive biological desertification of sedimentary seabed ecosystems, leading to a 50% decrease in meiofauna abundance and 25% decline in nematode species. The practice also depletes organic matter and carbon content, threatening ecosystem functioning.
Researchers found hundreds of distinct genetic subpopulations within a single species of ocean microbe, Prochlorococcus, and discovered that these subpopulations are finely tuned for specific ecological niches. The study suggests that the remarkable diversity of Prochlorococcus is not random but rather a result of natural selection.
A Scripps Institution of Oceanography study finds that Alteromonas bacteria can consume as much dissolved organic carbon as diverse communities of organisms. This discovery sheds light on the complex mechanisms of ocean carbon cycling and highlights the importance of individual species in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide.
The Mozambique Channel is identified as a priority for protection due to its high coral richness and sensitive species. The study found that northern reef systems in the channel are better protected from climate change and human pressures.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed new statistical models to increase the accuracy of ocean forecasting. The models improved predictability of sea surface temperature extremes, wind fields, and plankton distribution, ultimately benefiting fisheries and ecosystems.
A recent study by NOAA scientists reveals that the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands' deep coral reefs contain nearly 50% of fish species unique to Hawaii, surpassing any other marine ecosystem. The discovery highlights the need for further conservation efforts and exploration of these largely unexplored ecosystems.
Researchers propose a coordinated response plan to study the impacts of biomass burning and haze on Southeast Asian marine ecosystems. The study aims to gather baseline information to inform effective management of threatened marine ecosystems in the region.
A new study projects that Antarctica's Ross Sea will lose over half its summer sea ice by 2050 and nearly three-quarters by 2100. This change will significantly impact the region's pristine food web, affecting species such as whales, penguins, and seals.
Researchers found that oxygenating cyanobacteria first colonized the oceans around 800 million years ago, providing enough bioavailable nitrogen to facilitate the next 'great leap forward' towards complex life. This pivotal moment in evolution may have been triggered by changes in nitrogen fixation in the open ocean.
Sharks are tracked using instruments ingested by researchers gaining new awareness into their feeding habits and role in the ocean ecosystem. The 'shark's eye' view provides unprecedented understanding of shark behavior and movements.
Researchers have discovered that the Plastisphere, a community of microorganisms living on ocean plastic, can pose significant risks to invertebrates and humans. The study found that certain bacteria thrive on these plastic islands and may cause diseases in animals and humans.
Researchers found that flowing water impeds bacterial movement, making microbes more likely to attach to surfaces. This discovery has implications for studying marine ecosystems and preventing infections in medical devices.
Growing industrialization threatens deep ocean ecosystems, which provide vital functions such as carbon sequestration. Experts urge a new 'stewardship mentality' to balance human needs with ecological impact, highlighting the need for international cooperation, regulation, and research funding to protect the world's last frontier.
NOAA researcher Sue Moore says Arctic marine mammals respond to climate change by shifting their distribution, timing of movements, and feeding locations. This provides clues on how the ecosystem is responding to changes in sea ice, warming temperatures, and increased storminess.
Researchers have discovered an infectious form of the cat parasite Toxoplasma gondii in western Arctic Belugas, raising public health concerns. The discovery also highlights the impact of climate change on pathogen circulation, allowing previously isolated parasites to spread to new hosts.
A team of Canadian biologists developed a framework to protect fish and ecosystems, highlighting the importance of connecting waterways, protecting habitats, and adopting adaptive management strategies. The 9 guiding principles aim to promote sustainable fisheries and conserve biodiversity.
The Polytraits database provides a rich collection of morphological, reproductive, and behavioral characteristics of polychaetes, facilitating ecological research and conservation studies. The database's data are also integrated into the Scratchpads virtual research environment and accessible through Encyclopedia of Life's TraitBank.
New research finds that invasive snails eat 20% more juvenile oysters under ocean conditions forecast for the end of this century. The combination of climate change and invasive predators may make restoration of oyster populations increasingly difficult.
Scientists at MIT discovered that marine cyanobacteria continually produce and release extracellular vesicles, which serve as food parcels for other organisms. The vesicles contain DNA, likely facilitating gene transfer among similar bacteria and potentially acting as decoys to deflect viruses.
Giant underwater waves, invisible to the eye, are produced by temperature and salinity differences in ocean water. These internal waves, resembling surface waves in shape, play a key role in mixing ocean waters, driving warm surface waters downward and drawing heat from the atmosphere.
A recent study by Florida State University researchers reveals the domino effect of overfishing on ecosystems, where the loss of a key species can have far-reaching and devastating consequences. The research highlights the importance of understanding key linkages among species that set up tipping points in ecosystems.
A new study by Wildlife Conservation Society reveals that protecting Fiji's forests near the sea is crucial for preserving coral reefs. The study found that terrestrial protected areas benefit both land and coastal ecosystems, highlighting the importance of integrated planning.
A recent study published in Nature has found a significant increase in Pacific nitrogen content over the past 1,000 years, tied to climate change. The research uses deep-sea corals as natural recorders of changes in biogeochemical cycles, revealing a dramatic long-term shift in the Pacific ecosystem.
Scientists Pedram Hassanzadeh and Philip Marcus present a new model explaining the Great Red Spot's persistence, suggesting vertical flow plays a key role. The model also predicts radial flow pumping energy into the vortex, enabling it to last longer.
Research predicts that climate change will lead to the immersion of large proportions of islands, wiping out self-contained ecosystems and their inhabitants. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing island conservation in light of sea level rise.
Researchers at the University of Delaware found staggering results in arranging wind turbines to improve performance. Staggering and spacing out turbines can increase efficiency by up to 33 percent, according to a new study published in Geophysical Research Letters.
A new study reveals areas of high human impact on marine predators such as whales, seals, and turtles along the US west coast. The research used tracking data and mapping to identify key habitats and areas for conservation efforts.
Climate change will have far-reaching consequences for the world's oceans, affecting marine habitats and organisms, as well as human societies that depend on them. The study warns of massive disruptions to food chains, fishing, and tourism, with up to 870 million people relying on ocean goods and services.
A new study predicts that climate change will significantly impact the world's oceans by 2100, affecting marine habitats and organisms. The study reveals that no corner of the ocean will be untouched by changes in temperature, acidification, oxygen depletion, and productivity, with massive disruptions to food chains, fishing, and tourism.
Researchers found new areas with high functional diversity in temperate waters, revealing a more nuanced map of global biodiversity. The study used data from volunteer divers to analyze species traits and distribution, painting a different picture than traditional species counts.
Scientists analyze data collected from a spring 2011 cruise to determine the impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on deep-water communities in the Gulf of Mexico. The study found severe reduction of biological abundance and biodiversity impacting an area around 9 square miles around the wellhead.
The OceanCube Observatories are designed to understand changes in species, nutrients, and energy within a controlled cube-shaped volume of water. The system provides real-time data on temperature, salinity, and other chemical, biological, and physical data critical to understanding coral reef ecosystem health.
A new study suggests that local climatic conditions, rather than biological differences among species, explain observed shifts in marine species distribution. Researchers analyzed four decades of data from NOAA and Canadian fisheries surveys and found that 74% of species shifted latitude in the same direction as climate velocity.
New research reveals that warmer waters impact plankton's ability to remove CO2 from the atmosphere, leading to a vicious cycle of climate change. Phytoplankton play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, producing oxygen and serving as the base of the food chain.
A study by Tim Mattes and colleagues found that microorganisms in the dark ocean, below 600 feet, absorb considerable amounts of carbon. The team discovered sulfur-oxidizing microbes dominating carbon fixation at hydrothermal vents, which could provide insights into global biogeochemical cycles.
Researchers have developed a new tool that can predict fish habitat conditions six months in advance. The JISAO Seasonal Coastal Ocean Prediction of the Ecosystem (J-SCOPE) uses global climate models and regional coastal ocean simulations to forecast ocean temperatures, oxygen levels, and phytoplankton blooms.
Computer models predict coral reef ecosystem shifts due to warming and acidification, with the Western Pacific becoming less suitable by 2070. Coral Triangle biodiversity is also at risk, while some areas like the eastern Pacific may remain suitable.
A study found that sea otter recolonization led to an increase in grazing invertebrates, which kept algae growth under control and allowed seagrasses to recover. The findings suggest that restoration of entire food webs may be necessary for coastal habitat recovery.
A new study by Alfred Wegener Institute researchers analyzed data from over 150 species, finding that most animal groups are affected negatively by higher carbon dioxide concentrations. Corals and echinoderms react sensitively to ocean acidification, while crustaceans may be more resilient in certain scenarios.
A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that the rise of early Appalachian Mountains and cooling oceans allowed invasive species to upset the North American ecosystem 450 million years ago. This geological shift triggered evolutionary changes in ancient seas, leading to a change in survival patterns among native organisms.
Researchers are tracking the movements of 10 Great Shearwater seabirds in the Gulf of Maine using satellite tags, providing insights into ecosystem health and food supply changes. The birds' feeding habits and reactions to changes in their primary food source, sand lance, will inform conservation efforts.
Researchers highlight climate change's role in spreading infectious diseases, affecting wildlife and agriculture, with potential consequences of extinction and human health risks
The USGS has released new seafloor maps, data layers, and videos for the entire California coast, providing a comprehensive base-map series. This collaboration between state and federal agencies, academia, and private industry aims to inform coastal managers and researchers about seafloor habitats, geology, and ecosystems.
A three-year international study found that marine species are shifting their geographic distribution towards cooler regions due to warming oceans. This has led to changes in breeding patterns, life cycles, and potentially significant repercussions for human services dependent on these ecosystems.
A recent study predicts that biodiversity on polar seabeds could be reduced by up to one third within decades as the poles warm, leading to widespread ecosystem shifts. The research reveals that even slight changes in sea-ice timing can cause a tipping point, resulting in unique communities being replaced by algal beds.
A special edition of Environmental Development journal captures decades of trans-boundary water management lessons, highlighting the need for science-based governance and innovative approaches to address pressing issues like climate change, water scarcity, and ecosystem degradation. The volume includes articles on Nile River Basin mana...
The first global atlas of marine plankton catalogues an estimated 100 trillion individual organisms, revealing surprising similarities in phytoplankton and zooplankton biomass. The open-source database will aid conservation efforts and inform computer models to predict climate change impacts.
A global single-cell genomic study highlights British Columbia's role as an 'oasis' of microbial biodiversity. The research, published in Nature, provides new insights into the vital biological diversity encoded in microorganisms, shedding light on essential ecosystem functions and services.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that ocean acidification can have a profound impact on marine ecosystems, causing a loss of functional diversity and resulting in a homogenized community dominated by turf algae. This can lead to cascading effects throughout the ecosystem, making calc...
Researchers found at least 1000 types of bacterial cells on plastic debris, including autotrophs, heterotrophs, and symbionts. The plastisphere may alter ocean ecosystems and transport harmful microbes, sparking concerns about its impact on marine life.
A research team at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences has developed a new genetic tool to analyze microbial life in oceans. They found that marine microbes are adapted to very narrow and specialized niches, utilizing diverse energy sources and displaying genomic streamlining.
Researchers found that zooplankton species critical for Atlantic cod larvae have declined in abundance, affecting their survival and recovery after overfishing. The study highlights the impact of changing ocean temperatures on the food chain, with significant biological consequences.