Research on ocean life and coastal ecosystems. Covers ocean carbon protection, sea turtles, plankton and food webs, and warming-driven whale feeding.
The study highlights the loss of large predatory fish as a key factor in altering marine food webs, leading to changes in ecosystem composition. Historical records suggest that fishing impacts may have begun thousands of years ago, contributing to current ecosystem level changes.
Researchers examined paleoecological records, archaeological sites, and historical documents to calibrate their understanding of coastal marine ecosystems. They found that human disturbance led to changes in ecosystem structures and functions, with many species becoming ecologically extinct.
Global change poses significant environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. Scientists urge immediate action to address these issues, as human activities are transforming the Earth's environment at an unsustainable rate.
The Pew Fellows Program in Marine Conservation awards $150,000 to ten ocean ambassadors from five continents tackling pressing issues like marine pollution and coastal conservation. The 2000 recipients will conduct interdisciplinary projects applying sound science to urgent challenges.
Research suggests that rising CO2 levels may cause a 40% reduction in coral reef growth over the next 65 years. The team found no evidence of acclimation to reduced carbonate levels, highlighting the negative impact on coral reefs. This finding has significant implications for the increasing vulnerability of many reefs to other stressors.
Researchers successfully eliminated an invasive South African worm that was causing deformed shells and stunted growth in California's abalone. By removing susceptible snails and using the 'epidemic threshold of transmission theory,' they were able to break the parasite's cycle, offering a new glimmer of hope for conservation efforts.
New studies suggest ecosystems can be disrupted by small environmental changes or loss of minor species, challenging conventional wisdom on ecological protection. Research finds importance of both keystone and lesser species in ecosystem function.
Killer whales have begun preying on sea otters in western Alaska, leading to a decline in sea otter populations and an increase in sea urchin numbers. This chain of events is linked to the collapse of seals and sea lions, which are the killer whales' usual prey.
Salmon returns have fallen short of expectations in Alaska, with declines attributed to natural ocean cycles and potential regime shifts. Scientists attribute the changes to shifts in phytoplankton species composition and plankton abundance.
A 1996 hurricane study found that recovery rates increase with dispersal ability and size, while larger organisms are more resistant to moderate disturbance. The researchers also discovered that tidal surges can cause devastation on low-lying islands.
Researchers are studying the effects of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill on Alaskan sea otter populations. Initial results indicate higher levels of an enzyme in otters living near the spill area, suggesting continued exposure to low levels of oil or other contaminants.
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is working to protect coral reefs worldwide through research, conservation, and management programs. WCS has been studying coral reefs in various locations, including the Belize Barrier Reef, where they have made significant progress with fishery replenishment zones and sea urchin control.