Not just the birds
Researchers found that introduced foxes reduced guano deposits, affecting plants and animals at the bottom of the food web. The study showed significant differences in plant communities between fox-infested and fox-free islands.
Marine Ecosystems
Articles tagged with Marine Ecosystems
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Marine scientists going down for the count
Marine scientists are investigating the world's coral reefs to assess biodiversity, identify species, and predict reef collapse. The CReefs project aims to answer key questions about reef dynamics, species survival, and conservation strategies.
No safe ground for life to stand on during world's largest mass extinction
Scientists uncover evidence of massive soil erosion as primary cause of end-Permian extinction, which wiped out over two-thirds of reptile and amphibian families. The research reveals a unique set of molecules found in rocks from Italy provided crucial insights into the event.
Missing fossil link 'Dallasaurus' found
The discovery of Dallasaurus, a three-foot long lizard that lived 92 million years ago, fills a gap in the understanding of mosasaur evolution and reveals that they transitioned from land to sea. The fossil find provides significant insights into the biology and natural history of mosasaurs, which were top predators in their ecosystem.
Can ancient rocks yield clues about catastrophes like Hurricane Katrina?
Scientists found evidence of rapid climatic change and massive burial of dead organic matter in ancient sediments. This variability led to oxygen-depleted deep ocean conditions and extreme climate fluctuations on land.
USGS Science at Ecological Society of America
USGS researchers investigate reciprocal interactions between pathogens and ecosystems, finding parasites can alter predator-prey dynamics and ecosystem balance. They also examine the role of ants in monitoring ecosystem condition and the impact of fire history on alien plant invasion.
Discovering an ecosystem beneath a collapsed Antarctic ice shelf
Researchers uncover a previously unknown ecosystem beneath the Antarctic ice shelf, featuring a thriving clam community and methane-driven chemical life. The discovery provides valuable insights into the dynamics of inhospitable sub-ice settings and may lead to further exploration of remote undersea environments.
First annual Global Conservation Award announced at World Ocean Day
Carlos Manuel Rodriguez was awarded the first-ever Global Ocean Conservation Award for his groundbreaking work in advancing global marine conservation, fisheries reform, and ocean science. He is recognized for his leadership in securing a U.N. moratorium on high seas bottom trawling and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Clear rules needed to govern deep sea bioprospecting: UNU
The report highlights the need for clear rules to regulate deep sea bioprospecting, citing growing concerns about exploitation and potential damage to sensitive ecosystems. Marine-derived drugs have significant economic value, with estimated annual profits of $1 billion from anti-cancer agents alone.
CI launches unprecedented marine conservation initiatives
Conservation International launches unprecedented marine conservation initiatives, including seascapes and a Global Marine Species Assessment, to protect critical marine ecosystems. The programs aim to address declining ocean wildlife, pollution, and other conservation issues.
Study in Royal Society journal on heritability of female orgasm
A twin study published in the Royal Society journal examines the genetic influences on female orgasmic function, suggesting a significant heritability component. The research highlights the complex interplay of biological and environmental factors contributing to individual differences in female orgasmic function.
Scripps scientists find potential for catastrophic shifts in Pacific ecosystems
Researchers found nonlinear mechanisms that could lead to dramatic and swift changes in the North Pacific Ocean's biological systems. In contrast, physical characteristics such as sea surface temperature evolve in a linear manner, making regime-like fluctuations unreliable.
Ocean climate predicts elk population in Canadian Rockies
Research by Mark Hebblewhite links positive NPO values with elk population declines due to severe weather and wolf predation. The Atlantic Ocean climate is driving ecosystem changes, including declines of up to 50% in the Canadian Rockies.
Introduced foxes transformed vegetation on Aleutian Islands from lush grasslands to tundra
The introduction of foxes to Aleutian Islands led to the transformation of vegetation from lush grasslands to tundra, with a significant impact on seabird populations. Soil phosphorus levels increased by three times in fox-free islands compared to fox-infested islands, reflecting the loss of marine-derived nutrients.
Oceans more vulnerable to agricultural runoff than previously thought, study finds
A new study by Stanford University scientists presents direct evidence linking large-scale coastal farming to massive algal blooms in the sea. Highly productive regions of the ocean are found to be more vulnerable to agricultural runoff than assumed.
First ever estimate of cod fishery in 1850s reveals 96% decline on Scotian Shelf
Research estimates cod biomass on the Scotian Shelf was 1.26 million metric tons in 1852, compared to less than 50,000 metric tons today. The decline is consistent with earlier research and suggests that commercially important species biomass is only a small fraction of what existed before industrialized exploitation.
Growth in the sea comes down to a struggle for iron
Researchers investigate iron's impact on phytoplankton growth in the sub-Arctic Pacific, a crucial nutrient for ocean life. The findings could inform strategies to mitigate global warming by addressing the ocean's ecological dynamics.
Foiling fugitive fish
Researchers suggest introducing a new species to balance ecosystem health and mitigate the risk of farmed fish escapes. Dr. Ian Fleming argues that this could be a solution to limit ecological impact.
Please, do disturb
Researchers found that chaos and noise are essential for maintaining marine ecosystems, allowing plankton blooms to flourish even in suboptimal conditions. By adding noise to a system, it can become synchronized and sustained, contrary to previous assumptions.
Drilled shells show extinction's lasting effects
Researchers found that modern snails began edge-drilling their prey when competing for food with others, but returned to slow wall drilling when separated. This suggests that the severe extinction event ended high competition levels in the ocean, which have not fully recovered since.
Europe's fishermen should have marine 'stewardship' role, says study
A pioneering North Sea fisheries management plan proposes recognizing fishermen's role in protecting the marine ecosystem. The plan, developed by Newcastle University scientists, aims to promote sustainable fishing practices and involve fishermen in decision-making.
Argo robotic instrument network now covers most of the globe
The international Argo program has reached a milestone with 1,500 ocean-traveling float instruments now operating, providing valuable data on climate and weather phenomena. This coverage represents half of the target 3,000-float array, enabling scientists to monitor the planet's oceans and gain insights into ocean processes.
Extinction in ocean's mud presages key ecological changes
A new study suggests that ocean extinction can predict key ecological changes by analyzing the impact of species loss on sediment mixing and oxygen levels in marine ecosystems. The research found that the extinction of certain species can lead to reduced sediment mixing, diminishing oxygen concentrations that sustain bottom-dwelling life.
Ecosystem remodelling among vertebrates during the Permian-Triassic extinction
A team of researchers from Bristol University and Saratov University in Russia analyzed 675 specimens of amphibians and reptiles from 289 areas spanning 13 geological time zones. The study found a profound loss of animal groups and ecosystems, with many species still absent after 15 million years of recovery.
UAF scientists discover new marine habitat in Alaska
A team of scuba diving scientists discovered a new type of marine habitat in Alaska's Prince William Sound, specifically rhodolith beds. These colorful algae structures have been found worldwide but never in Alaskan waters, sparking debate over their protection and potential impact on the ecosystem.
New study to investigate demise of coral reef ecosystems
A new project led by Newcastle University aims to examine the ecosystem consequences of bleaching on coral reefs. The research team will analyze changes in reef fish assemblages over five to 15 year time scales at sites in the Western Indian Ocean and Australia.
Hidden cost of Colorado River diversions is $2.4 billion annually
A University of Arizona researcher estimates that Colorado River water divertions result in a $2.4 billion annual loss to society, primarily due to the absence of natural flood control and wastewater treatment. The study suggests including an environmental impact fee in water prices to support ecosystem restoration in the delta.
Biological oceanographers examine 'regime shifts' in complex marine ecosystems
Regime shifts occur when changes in ocean conditions, such as warming, affect plankton production and propagate up the food chain. Overfishing can also force a regime shift, changing population dynamics of an entire ecosystem.
Freeing Nemo: Aquarium owners releasing non-native fish could endanger marine ecosystems
A study found 16 non-native species of fish in ocean waters off the southeast coast of Florida, released from home aquariums. Aquarium owners are often unaware of the potential pitfalls of releasing pets into the wild, and education programs can help curtail exotic species introductions.
Faster carbon turnover in basal food-chain levels in aquatic than terrestrial ecosystems
A study published in Ecology Letters reveals that aquatic ecosystems process carbon through the basal levels of their food chain significantly faster than terrestrial ecosystems. This means aquatic ecosystems are less capable of retaining carbon, especially under high CO2 conditions.
U.S. commission makes dramatic recommendations for ocean health
The US government is expected to issue a draft report with recommendations for ocean policy, addressing issues like resource stewardship and pollution prevention. The commission's report emphasizes the need for ecosystem-based management to sustain long-term exploitation.
National ocean commissioners & scientists call for overhaul of ocean policies & management
National Ocean Commissioners and scientists propose a holistic ecosystem-based approach to manage the oceans, shifting from single-species management to integrated governance. This approach aims to restore ocean health by considering the interconnectedness of species and ecosystems.
Report details growing climate change threat to coral reefs
Scientists warn that coral reefs are facing a 'crisis' due to human-caused climate change, threatening biodiversity and economic benefits. Rising CO2 levels and warmer waters cause coral bleaching and ocean acidification, devastating reef ecosystems.
Nutrient-poor oceans generate their food 'hot spots'
Researchers found that nutrient-poor ocean areas have 'hot spots' of high chlorophyll concentrations, likely due to concentrated floating organic particles. This phenomenon improves our understanding of marine ecosystem processes and has significant applications for fishing and tuna stock management.
Nutrient pollution can exacerbate coral disease outbreaks and threatens coral reef health
Field experiments on Mexican reefs show that modest nutrient pollution can increase coral mortality by facilitating disease spread. Further steps should be taken to reduce agricultural runoff, sewage pollution, and deforestation to protect coral reef health.
Marine pathogens spread much faster than their terrestrial counterparts
A new study reveals that marine epidemics spread approximately 100 times faster than comparable terrestrial epidemics. This faster rate of spread is attributed to the lack of barriers to pathogen dispersal in marine environments and better long-term survival of mobile infectious stages.
Red sea urchins found to live up to 200 years
Researchers from Oregon State University and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory found red sea urchins can live for over 200 years, defying previous seven-15 year lifespan estimates. The study used two techniques to determine ages, producing consistent results that show no signs of senescence until death.
Historical coral reef declines featured in this week's Science
Historical coral reef research reveals that most world reefs were degraded by overfishing and pollution even before grandparents' birth. Top carnivores and grazers are the first to disappear when humans enter the picture.
Introduced marine species get larger in the invaded region
In contrast to many other introduced species, most marine invertebrates increase in size after invasion. This size increase may have significant implications for the impacts of these species on native ecosystems. The study's findings highlight the need for further research into the effects of invasive species on non-native regions.
Whale populations are too low to resume commercial hunting, geneticists find
A study by geneticists from Stanford and Harvard Universities reveals that humpback, fin, and minke whale populations in the North Atlantic were much higher before commercial hunting. The researchers estimated that there were around 800,000 to 900,000 whales, contradicting previous whaling records.
Nature cover story - Only 10% of all large fish are left in global ocean
The study reveals that industrial fishing has reduced the resource base to less than 10% globally, threatening entire communities of large fish species. The authors urge international collaboration to restore fisheries and marine ecosystems to healthy levels, highlighting the need for action on a global scale.
New research tools are opening the 'black box' of coastal ecosystems
Researchers are using innovative new tools to study coastal ecosystems, including genetic mapping of marine populations and remote ocean sensing. These tools are helping scientists understand the dynamics of ocean environments and track the movement of marine species.
Marine biologists probe 'black box' mysteries of the sea
Researchers find that coastal ecosystems are fragmented into smaller neighborhoods, with varying species distributions and abundance rates along the coast. The study uses innovative technologies to measure wave forces and track marine organism movement, shedding light on the complex dynamics of ocean ecosystems.
Scientists crack the black box of coastal ecosystems
Researchers from PISCO integrate genetics, microchemistry, and computer mapping to understand coastal ecosystems. They discover coastal hotspots with abundant food and faster growth rates, and track larvae movements using mini-flight recorder technology.
Ocean report calls for the immediate creation of marine reserves throughout the United States
The report highlights the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems from threats like overfishing, pollution, and climate change. Establishing large marine reserves can reverse these trends by providing a safe haven for species to thrive.
Scripps Institution researchers develop new approach for designing marine reserves
Scripps Institution researchers have developed a new approach for designing marine reserves in the Gulf of California, using optimization algorithms and ecological data. The study, published in Science, provides a mapped series of reserves that meet conservation goals while minimizing societal conflicts with fishing interests.
Scripps’s Paul Dayton honored with Diving Lifetime Achievement Award
Paul Dayton, a renowned marine ecologist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, has received the Diving Lifetime Achievement Award for his groundbreaking research on coastal and estuarine habitats. His work, including over 500 dives in Antarctica, has significantly advanced our understanding of Antarctic undersea ecology.
Marine biodiversity essential to preserving species
A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that removing any one species from a marine food web can have devastating effects, leading to population collapse and regional extinction. The study's findings highlight the importance of preserving biodiversity in marine ecosystems.
Investing in environment pays off at 100-1, says paper published in Science this week
A $45 billion annual investment in preserving large tracts of wild nature could yield an annual return of $44 to $52 trillion in ecosystem services. The market economy fails to capture the full financial value of natural goods and services, leading to a lack of information and harmful development policies.
It pays to save: Science study shows huge economic benefits from conserving wild nature
A recent study published in Science suggests that conserving wild nature can generate significant economic benefits, with intact ecosystems providing up to 75% more value than converted ones. The research estimates a global network of nature reserves could provide $4.4 trillion in additional economic benefits annually.
Industrial fishing threatens sharks, dolphins, billfish
A University of Wisconsin-Madison study warns that industrial fishing poses significant risks to sharks, dolphins, and billfishes. The large, slow-growing animals are vulnerable to declines in populations due to increased fishing pressure.
Ocean ecosystems only altered following two great mass extinctions
The study found that only the Permian and Cretaceous extinction events led to significant changes in ocean ecosystem structure. The analysis suggests that life's evolution played a crucial role in shaping these ecosystems after the massive extinctions.
Icebergs’ devastating impact on Antarctic marine life revealed by satellite data
Researchers used satellite imagery to study the effects of an iceberg on a marine ecosystem in Antarctica. The study found that extensive ice cover reduced phytoplankton production by 40% and affected the entire food chain from krill to fish, seals, whales, penguins, and other species.
Massive icebergs may affect Antarctic sea life and food chain
Large icebergs from Antarctica's Ross Ice Shelf are dramatically affecting the growth of minute plant life in the ocean, with a 40% reduction in phytoplankton blooms observed. The icebergs block normal drift of pack ice, reducing open water and altering the marine ecosystem.
Marine researchers explore sediment highways
Researchers measured unusually high biochemical activity on the canyon floor, with organic material enriching the deep-sea area. The sediment accumulates rapidly, leading to unstable floors and submarine mud avalanches every several decades to centuries.
URI oceanographer to assess impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles
A team of scientists from the University of Rhode Island and several institutions will develop new models to predict the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems. The Partnership for Advancing Interdisciplinary Global Modeling (PARADIGM) aims to create global ocean models that can predict future states of the ocean.
Rock-eating microbes survive in deep ocean off Peru
Researchers from Texas A&M University embark on a voyage to understand the abundance and diversity of deep-sea microbes, estimated to number between 10-30% of Earth's biota. The JOIDES Resolution drillship samples cores containing these microbes from previously drilled sites in the eastern equatorial and southeast Pacific.
University of Southern Mississippi $6 million grant will aid coastal waters research
The University of Southern Mississippi has received a $6 million grant from the EPA to conduct research on coastal waters using bioindicators. The four-year project will measure estuary health and develop predictive indicators for coastal managers.
A major scientific survey finds more species than in the entire Mediterranean at Lifou, Loyalty Islands
The LIFOU 2000 survey discovered nearly 3000 species of mollusc living in a mere 5000 ha area on Lifou, outperforming the entire Mediterranean region. This staggering diversity includes many rare and unknown species, with some seen only once or represented by single examples.
Deep-ocean research program office established at Penn State
The RIDGE 2000 program will focus on the integration of research across a wide range of disciplines to study complex seafloor ecosystems and geological processes. With an investment of $27 million, the program aims to address questions that bridge gaps between disciplines.