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New research predicts effects of marine heatwaves on top ocean predators

A new study forecasts the impact of marine heatwaves on top ocean predators, revealing varied effects and potential redistributions across international boundaries. The researchers developed models to provide real-time predictions of how species shift during heatwaves, informing proactive climate-ready management strategies.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 5, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Fossil spines reveal deep sea’s past

A research team led by the University of Göttingen has discovered fossil spines that indicate the existence of irregular echinoids in the deep sea for at least 104 million years. The study provides insights into the past, including a mass extinction event that caused smaller species to thrive and changes in spine morphology.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023

Due to sea-ice retreat, zooplankton could remain in the deep longer

A new study reveals that the decline of Arctic sea ice is altering zooplankton behavior, leading to more frequent food shortages and potential negative effects on larger species. The changing light conditions are affecting the daily vertical migration of zooplankton in the Arctic.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New URI study finds extensive microplastics in Narragansett Bay

A new study published by the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography reveals extensive microplastic storage in Narragansett Bay, with an estimated 1,000 tons stored in the top 5 cm of its floor. The buildup has occurred over the last 10-20 years, primarily due to littering and runoff of single-use plastic items.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2023

Ice-free preservation method holds promise to protect reefs

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed an isochoric vitrification technique that preserves and revives live coral fragments without forming ice. This breakthrough enables the collection of coral samples throughout the year, supporting conservation efforts to protect reefs and their diverse ecosystems.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2023

Pacific coral reef shows historic increase in climate resistance

A new study reveals that Pacific coral reefs have increased their thermal tolerance to higher ocean temperatures, reducing the risk of bleaching. This natural adaptation could help reefs withstand climate change if global carbon emissions are cut down.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

Glitter impairs growth of organisms with key roles in aquatic ecosystems, study shows

A study by researchers at the University of São Paulo found that glitter can hinder the growth of cyanobacteria, a key component of aquatic ecosystems. The toxic effects of glitter on microorganisms have not been well-studied, but the findings suggest that even low concentrations can negatively impact susceptible organisms.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAquatic Toxicology·DateAug 22, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

World’s deepest coral calcification rates measured off Hawaiian Islands

Scientists measured coral calcification rates off Hawaiian Islands at depths of 230-360 feet, finding the lowest rates ever recorded for healthy corals. This is due to the efficient use of calcification by corals like Leptoseris spp., which form thin horizontal skeletons to maximize area in low-light zones.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalCoral Reefs·TypeObservational study·DateAug 15, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Gray whales feeding along the Pacific Northwest coast are smaller than their counterparts who travel farther to forage

Research from Oregon State University's Marine Mammal Institute reveals that gray whales feeding off the Pacific Northwest coast are shorter than their counterparts in the Arctic. The females average 3 feet and males average 1.5 feet shorter, with slightly smaller skulls and flukes.

SourceOregon State University·JournalBiology Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2023

The trilobites’ guide to surviving environmental change

A new study reveals how Aulacopleura, an ancient sea-dwelling trilobite, developed variable mid-section segments to tolerate dips in local oxygen levels. This adaptation allowed the species to thrive despite being preyed upon by larger predators.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 7, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Whale like filter-feeding discovered in prehistoric marine reptile

A team of researchers from China and the UK has discovered that a group of ancient marine reptiles used whale-like filter feeding methods 250 million years ago. The Hupehsuchus skull shows adaptations similar to baleen whales, including grooves and notches along the jaws.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 7, 2023

Study highlights importance of mineral iron in ocean ecosystems

A new study published in Nature highlights the importance of mineral iron in regulating the cycling of this bio-essential nutrient in the ocean. The findings show that iron levels are largely controlled by the clustering of iron oxide colloids, rather than organic molecules called ligands.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateAug 3, 2023

New research highlights risks of selective adaptation in extreme coral habitats

Scientists discover reduced genetic diversity and compromised skeletal properties among 'super corals' adapted to mangrove lagoons. The study challenges existing notions surrounding the resilience of these resilient corals, highlighting potential risks for future environmental stressors.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJul 28, 2023

Residents must have a voice in ocean conservation

A recent journal article by University of Miami researchers outlines ways to achieve greater equity in ocean governance and science in the global tropics. The authors emphasize the need to give a voice to the 'tropical majority' and incorporate indigenous knowledge into ocean management.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalNature·DateJul 25, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

How eelgrass spread around the world

An international team reconstructed eelgrass colonisation history, tracing Pacific to Atlantic migrations around 243,000 years ago. Genetic diversity in Atlantic populations is lower due to past ice ages, raising concerns about adapting to a changing climate.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Plants·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 20, 2023

Some corals may survive climate change without paying a metabolic price

New research shows certain coral species can survive climate change without suffering reduced growth or other tradeoffs when partnering with thermally tolerant algae. This finding suggests these partnerships may dominate reef ecosystems in a climate-changed future.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateJul 18, 2023

In Florida, endangered coral finds a way to blossom

A new study found that the unique oceanographic conditions in Florida's Dry Tortugas National Park provide the ideal environment for elkhorn coral to flourish, with enhanced growth and survivorship. The research highlights the importance of food availability, particularly zooplankton, for coral survival and restoration efforts.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2023

Salinity changes threaten the world's oceans and biodiversity

A study led by the University of Konstanz warns that human-induced salinity changes could have devastating impacts on marine organisms and ecosystems. Salinity is a critical factor in many metabolic processes, and its effects are often underestimated due to its complex interactions with other physical and chemical properties.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 12, 2023
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Chemical odyssey: First global analysis shows how pesticides leach into the environment

Approximately 70,000 tonnes of pesticides leach into aquifers each year, impacting ecosystems and freshwater resources. The study showed that about 80 percent of applied pesticides degrade into daughter molecules, persisting in the environment for a long time and posing significant harm to marine wildlife and coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 12, 2023

Plastic pollution on coral reefs increases with depth and mostly comes from fishing activities, Nature study finds

Researchers found that plastic debris on coral reefs increases with depth, largely stemming from fishing activities, and is correlated with proximity to marine protected areas. The study, which surveyed over 1,200 reefs across 14 countries, highlights the need for increased protections to address this growing threat.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·DateJul 12, 2023

Warmer ocean temperatures increase risk of salmon bycatch in Pacific hake fishery

Research found that warmer ocean temperatures and marine heatwaves lead to increased overlap between Chinook salmon and Pacific hake, raising the risk of salmon bycatch. The study used 20 years of data and modeled behavioral changes to show how salmon move lower into the water column during higher temperatures.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFish and Fisheries·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 12, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Marine fossils are a reliable benchmark for degrading and collapsing ecosystems

A new study uses marine fossils to infer the health and stability of coastal ecosystems, revealing consistent patterns in population declines and species extinctions. The findings provide a reliable benchmark for conservation efforts and offer insights into the impacts of human activities on marine biodiversity.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalPeerJ·DateJul 11, 2023

Researchers offer a tropical perspective on marine conservation

Researchers argue that equitable governance and science are crucial for ocean sustainability, prioritizing tropical voices and expertise. The study proposes four key actions: equity in ocean science and governance, reconnecting people and the ocean, redefining ocean literacy, and decolonizing ocean science.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·Journalnpj Ocean Sustainability·DateJul 6, 2023

New research uncovers potential benefits, consequences of ocean iron fertilization

A new study published in Global Change Biology suggests that large-scale ocean iron fertilization could exacerbate climate change-driven nutrient shortages and productivity losses in the tropics, potentially harming coastal fisheries. The research also showed a five percent decline in fish and marine species biomass in tropical areas d...

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 6, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Hedging strategy for coral restoration balances diversity, ecosystem benefits

A new hedging strategy for coral restoration balances species diversity and ecosystem benefits by selecting key species that maintain critical functions. The approach considers a range of local species and ecological characteristics to ensure the most effective restoration outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2023

What controls the pathways of the Labrador Current?

Researchers from McGill University found that stronger winds shift the Labrador Current eastward, leading to sudden warmings or drops in oxygen levels. This has dire consequences for marine ecosystems and fisheries, including smaller species like cod and halibut, which struggle to survive in low-oxygen conditions.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 28, 2023

Magnetic bacteria point the way

Researchers found magnetotactic bacteria living on a hydrothermal vent chimney at 2,787 meters below the ocean's surface. The discovery provides clues to the early diversification of bacteria and offers insights into the environment that may support extraterrestrial life.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 27, 2023

Poop and prey help researchers estimate that gray whales off Oregon Coast consume millions of microparticles per day

Researchers estimate that gray whales off the Oregon Coast consume millions of microparticles per day, primarily from zooplankton and fish. The study suggests that these high loads of microfibers may be affecting the health and behavior of the whales, with potential consequences for their populations.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 26, 2023

How coral reefs can survive climate change

The Tara Pacific expedition's dataset reveals that global microbial biodiversity is ten times higher than previously thought, and environmental impacts on evolutionary adaptation are species-specific. Duplication of important genes in corals may be the key to their long lifespan.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Marine protected areas improve health, wealth of nearby communities

New study finds that limiting human activity in parts of the ocean can enhance marine environment health and benefit nearby coastal communities. MPAs with strict fishing restrictions sustain fisheries and improve income and food security for nearby residents.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 22, 2023

Ocean current comes to the rescue for Pacific island reefs

Researchers have identified a phenomenon that could help coral reef managers plan and act for the future. Ocean processes during El Niño strengthened the North Equatorial Counter Current, driving cooler plankton-rich waters to Palmyra's coral reefs and enabling them to better manage heat stress.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 14, 2023

Light pollution confuses coastal woodlouse

Artificial night-time light confuses a colour-changing coastal woodlouse, according to new research. The sea slater's ability to change colour and blend in is disrupted by diffuse light, making it more visible to predators.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Twenty species of sea lettuce found along the Baltic and Scandinavian coasts

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered twenty species of sea lettuce in the Baltic Sea region, including three invasive species. The survey highlights the importance of knowing which species grow in specific areas to maintain and protect valuable ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAlgal Research·TypeContent analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

Eddies: Circular currents and their influence on the world's hottest ocean

Researchers have investigated the impact of eddies on the Indonesian Throughflow, a vital current that transports warm waters between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The study found large flow fluctuations in certain areas, leading to significant changes in seawater temperature and circulation patterns.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Oceans·DateJun 9, 2023

Why certain fish are left off the hook

A recent study finds that most US fish stocks are not constrained by the Magnuson-Stevens Act, but rather by economic demand and other factors. The act's critics may be misinterpreting the data, as healthy stocks are being left in the water due to market forces and policies.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 2023

New dinosaur species from Utah lived at a time of major transition

A new species of dinosaur, Iani smithi, has been discovered in Utah's Cedar Mountain Formation, providing insights into how dinosaurs weathered ecological change during the mid-Cretaceous period. The discovery suggests that several major groups of dinosaurs survived into the early Late Cretaceous despite the changes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 7, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Significant citizen participation: Study examines the fate of plastic particles

A multidisciplinary team of scientists conducted a comprehensive study to understand the sources and sinks of plastic debris in the Southern North Sea. Local citizen scientists played a crucial role in tracking the distribution pathways of plastic particles, revealing that two-thirds were washed ashore within 25km of their release site.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

River diversions may cause microplastics to remain longer on land and in streams before reaching oceans

A new study reveals that diverting streams and rivers for irrigation can significantly extend the time microplastics spend in river catchments. Researchers found a strong link between urbanisation and microplastic concentrations, with microplastic loads increasing downstream of more urbanised areas.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalWater Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2023

Underwater forest's recovery offers hope for marine restoration across the globe

Scientists have found that 10 years of underwater seaweed forest restoration has helped a damaged ecosystem regrow to richness and strength comparable to undisturbed forests. The restored locality showed greater structural complexity, species with longer lifespans, and increased biodiversity, indicating long-term recovery.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2023

First soil map of terrestrial and blue carbon highlights need for conservation

A new study maps Australia's terrestrial and blue carbon soils, revealing the continent holds 27.9 gigatonnes of carbon, equivalent to 700 times annual electricity emissions. The research emphasizes the need to protect key ecosystems threatened by human activities and climate change.

SourceCurtin University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 1, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Mitigating climate change through restoration of coastal ecosystems

Restoring blue carbon ecosystems like seagrasses and mangroves can remove additional carbon from the atmosphere while combating ocean acidity. This process, known as inorganic carbon capture, is potentially more durable than organic carbon burial.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 30, 2023

What you count is not necessarily what counts

A new study reveals faster growth rates of SAR11 bacteria than previously believed, with some groups dividing up to ten times faster. The research also shows that the timing of bacterial proliferation can influence their abundance and survival, challenging previous assumptions about marine microbial life.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateMay 22, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

New use for A.I.: correctly estimating fish stocks

Researchers have developed an AI algorithm that accurately estimates coastal fish stocks, providing critical data for sustainable management. The tool has the potential to save millions of dollars in annual research costs and bridge the global data and sustainability divide.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalMarine Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2023

Coastal lights trick coral reefs into spawning earlier than they should

A new study found that coastal light pollution causes corals to spawn one to three days closer to the full moon, reducing the likelihood of fertilized eggs surviving and producing new adult corals. This disrupts the natural spawning cycle, which is critical for reef recovery after mass bleaching events.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalNature Communications·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 15, 2023
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Sea anemone’s sweet efforts help reef ecosystems flourish

Researchers discovered how sea anemones distribute sugar from symbionts to recycle nitrogen waste, enabling them to build massive reef ecosystems. The study reveals that sea anemones play a major role in recycling scarce nitrogen, challenging the belief that algae are the sole actors.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 2023

AI brings new tool to remote monitoring of global reef health

Researchers developed an AI-powered tool to identify and measure coral reef halos globally, providing a new method for monitoring ecosystem health. The tool enables efficient tracking of reef ecosystems' function at large scales, improving understanding and management of coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 12, 2023

Global warming puts whales in the Southern Ocean on a diet

Research from Aarhus University reveals that right whales in the Southern Ocean have become thinner over the past 30 years due to declining krill populations. The whales' food source is shrinking as warmer waters reduce phytoplankton growth, leading to less krill and ultimately affecting their ability to fatten up before winter.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMay 11, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Like ancient mariners, ancestors of Prochlorococcus microbes rode out to sea on exoskeleton particles

A new study proposes that ancestors of Prochlorococcus microbes used chitin particles as rafts to venture into the open ocean. This enabled them to evolve new abilities and eventually thrive in the nutrient-poor waters, playing a crucial role in absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2023