Aquatic Animals

How water fleas detect their predators

Anglers and scientists partner to study British Columbia’s salmon food chain

How the Atlantic herring adapted to the brackish water of the Baltic Sea

A new study reveals that four specific genes are crucial for the Atlantic herring's adaptation to low salinity in the Baltic Sea. The genes, expressed in sperm, eggs, and early embryos, enable the fish to reproduce successfully in brackish water.

How jellyfish bycatch could be valuable collagen source for cosmetics and biotech

Research suggests that jellyfish bycatch can provide high-quality collagen without compromising quality. This circular bioeconomy solution offers new economic opportunities for small-scale fisheries while reducing waste. The collaboration with fishers revealed a willingness to participate in recycling jellyfish bycatch, but also highli...

Giant squid among rare and elusive marine life detected off Western Australia’s coast

Scientists used environmental DNA to document species in deep underwater canyons, including the giant squid and other rare species. The study reveals a vast amount of deep-sea biodiversity in Western Australian waters, with dozens of new species detected.

Two whale groups separated by seas—but not by genes, study finds

The Mediterranean fin whale population is found to be genetically connected to North Atlantic populations, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding highlights the need for reevaluation of conservation strategies and increased connectivity between populations.

A mother’s gift

Researchers discovered that sea urchin eggs can integrate chromoplast-derived carotenoid crystals, which enhance larval development and increase their survival rate by 50%. This integration enables the larvae to adapt to different environments.

100 million years ago, an ‘evolutionary fuse’ was lit in the deep ocean, sparking squid diversification

A new study from Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) identifies the 'long fuse' that led to the diversification of modern squid and cuttlefish. The research suggests that these animals originated in the deep ocean around 100 million years ago, sparking rapid evolution after a mass extinction event.

Biodiversity Boost: 24 new deep-sea species discovered in major Pacific research

Researchers have announced the discovery of 24 new deep-sea amphipod species from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the central Pacific Ocean. The discoveries, part of an open-access special issue, provide fundamental knowledge of species and their distributions.

Amid new findings that more migratory species of animals are facing extinction nations gather in Brazil to agree on actions

Nations are coming together at the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) to address declining population trends and extinction threats among migratory species. The meeting aims to establish conservation policies and protections for over 2,000 species under threat.

FAU-FWC Study: Endangered smalltooth sawfish make a comeback in a historical Florida nursery

Researchers found juvenile smalltooth sawfish showing strong site fidelity to the South Fork of the Saint Lucie River, spending up to 87% of their time within a 0.4 square kilometer area. This suggests that the Indian River Lagoon is once again functioning as a nursery for this endangered species.

Scalable aquaculture systems can improve survival, reduce labor, and enhance animal welfare

The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) has developed a scalable aquaculture platform that automates early-life stages, minimizing pathogen exposure and animal stress. The system uses light and flow-guided systems to improve survival rates and reduce labor input.

Saving sea lions with soft robotics

Researchers at UNLV have created a 3D-printed synthetic California sea lion pelvic region, enabling medical professionals to conduct blood collection training on anatomically authentic models. This innovation has the potential to improve veterinary procedures and benefit human lives in the long run.

Study shows marine plastic pollution alters octopus predator-prey encounters

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology found that exposure to oleamide, a chemical additive in plastics, caused immediate changes in octopus prey choice and interactions with predators. The effects persisted for at least three days, suggesting a lasting impact on marine behavior and ecosystem dynamics.

Social pressure forces baby clownfish to lose their bars faster

A new study reveals that the presence of older fish accelerates bar loss in young tomato anemonefish, a process linked to social hierarchy and environmental adaptability. The researchers suggest this may be an insurance policy against invasion, with younger fish losing their bars as they are accepted into the group.

FAU researchers discover novel bacteria in Florida’s stranded pygmy sperm whales

Researchers have identified three previously unknown genotypes of Helicobacter bacteria in pygmy sperm whales stranded along the southeastern US coast. The discovery raises new questions about microbial pathogens on ocean health and their impact on vulnerable species.

Sea turtles are nesting earlier – but producing fewer eggs, less often: new research

A new study found that warmer sea surface temperatures cause loggerhead sea turtles to nest earlier and more frequently, but also reduces their reproductive output as ocean productivity declines. This shift has worrying consequences for the long-term resilience of the species.

New acoustic study reveals deep-diving behavior of elusive beaked whales

Scientists captured rare view of beaked whales by listening to their natural sounds, revealing deep-diving behavior. The study provides the first detailed description of Gervais' beaked whale dives anywhere in the world.

The vulnerable Amazonian manatee is most often found where human activity is low, with a new eDNA-based method most commonly detecting the freshwater mammal in the remote western Amazon

A new eDNA-based method has been developed to detect vulnerable Amazonian manatees in the remote western Amazon. The study reveals that these freshwater mammals are most commonly found in areas with low human activity.

Shrinking shellfish? FAU study uncovers acidic water risks in Indian River lagoon

A new FAU study uncovers the impact of acidic water on shell-building marine organisms, highlighting the need for strategies to mitigate coastal acidification. The research found that nutrient pollution, freshwater input, and other environmental factors contribute to reduced aragonite saturation.

For the first time, a study characterizes the sounds of the flying gurnard, offering clues to its communication

A new study characterizes the sounds produced by flying gurnards, revealing two distinct types of grunt-like sounds that differ in duration, frequency, and rhythm. The researchers also found that juveniles under 10 cm in length produce sounds from an early developmental stage.

Underwater photos show seabirds, seals and fish interacting with a tidal turbine in Washington State

Researchers captured underwater photos of seabirds, seals, and fish interacting with a small tidal turbine in Washington State. The study provides valuable information on the impact of tidal turbines on marine life. Marine animals were observed swimming, feeding, and even playing around the turbine

Hop to it: research from Shedd Aquarium tracks conch movement to set new conservation guidance

Researchers from Shedd Aquarium tracked queen conch movements to estimate the space needed to protect breeding populations. The study suggests establishing a 330-meter spatial buffer around breeding areas to help protect conch populations and serve as a practical tool for local management.

Study links seabird nesting to shark turf wars in Hawai‘i

A new study reveals that seasonal seabird nesting concentrates tiger sharks in specific areas, forcing other species to shift their habitat use to avoid predation. The presence of fledgling seabirds influences the behavior of apex predators, including gray reef and Galapagos sharks.

Connection and protection boost health in coral reefs

A new study by the University of Oxford and WCS reveals that connections between coral reefs can stabilize reef health, reducing the risk of collapse. By simulating future reef conditions under different management scenarios, researchers found that a dual approach improving land and sea conditions provides the best outcomes for reefs.

Captive bottlenose dolphins vary vocalizations during enrichment activities

Researchers analyzed dolphin vocalizations during enrichment activities at Oltremare Marine Park in Italy. The study found that dolphins 'speak' more during structured moments like training, feeding, or play, revealing their social and emotional engagement.

Discovery of new marine sponges supports hypothesis on animal evolution

A new order of marine sponges, Vilesida, has been discovered, producing unique sterols that support the hypothesis that animals evolved 100 million years earlier than previously thought. These compounds may also be used in the development of new antimicrobial and anticarcinogenic drugs.

Mystery of how turtles read their magnetic map solved: they feel the magnetism

Researchers discovered that hatchling loggerhead turtles feel the Earth’s magnetic map to determine their location on epic migration routes. By zapping them with a strong magnetic pulse, scientists confirmed that these turtles use magnetism to navigate and determine direction.

Seal mothers care for deceased pups, exhibiting unique mammalian behavior in Antarctic predator species

Researchers observed a female Antarctic leopard seal exhibiting postmortem attentive behavior, or PAB, where she cared for her deceased pup for over 20 days. This unique phenomenon is rare in marine mammals and sheds light on the complex behaviors of these apex predators.

Aquaporin gene duplication followed by mutation in European eels restores broad solute permeability

Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo found that European eels have restored aquaporin proteins with broad solute permeability through a recent gene duplication event. The study revealed that the genes Aqp10.2b2 and b3 acquired functional diversification, enabling them to transport urea and boric acid similar to Aqp10.1.

Drones map loggerhead sea turtle nesting site hotspots

Researchers used drones to create detailed maps of a high-density nesting beach, identifying steepness and proximity to dune crossover stairs as key factors influencing turtle nesting success. The study provides insights into how changing coastal conditions affect sea turtle habitats, informing conservation policy and coastal development.

Diet alone doesn’t explain divergent health of California Sea Lions in US and Mexico

Researchers found that regional differences in environmental conditions, rather than diet quality, drive divergent health trends in California Sea Lions. Despite similar diets, populations in Mexico are declining while those in the US are thriving.

UH Researcher awarded $2M federal grant to explore how frogs survive in salty environments

A University of Houston biologist has received a $2.16 million federal grant to study how some coastal frogs survive in salty environments. The research could reveal how cells cope with salt stress and have implications for understanding the health risks of high-salt diets in humans.

A new pink sea anemone that “builds a home” for hermit crabs discovered off Japan’s deep-sea coast

A new species of sea anemone has been discovered building shell-like homes for hermit crabs. The anemone secretes a carcinoecium that expands and reinforces the crab's shell, forming a mutualistic relationship between the two species.

Half-billion-year-old parasite still threatens shellfish

Researchers discovered a common parasite of modern oysters has been infecting bivalves for hundreds of millions of years. The parasite, belonging to the spionid group, has remained largely unchanged despite multiple mass extinction events.

How algae help corals bounce back after bleaching

Scientists at UC Riverside are using advanced technology to understand how corals regain life-giving algae after suffering from heat stress. By studying the cellular and genetic mechanisms of algae reestablishment, researchers aim to develop practical tools to help reefs survive ocean warming.

Nutritional supplements boost baby coral survival

Researchers at the University of Technology Sydney discovered that tailored lipid supplements can significantly increase coral larvae's strength, speed, and survival rate. This innovation has major implications for reef restoration projects, which aim to improve larval supply but often face low post-settlement survival rates.

FAU’s Queen Conch Lab receives prestigious international award

The FAU Queen Conch Lab has developed mobile lab hatcheries to restore threatened Caribbean queen conch populations and promote sustainable seafood production. These self-contained units bring advanced aquaculture capabilities to coastal communities, supporting education, employment, and food security.

Ocean species discovered! Researchers team up to describe 14 new marine animals

Researchers describe 14 new marine invertebrate species and two genera from worldwide oceans, shedding light on deep-sea life. The study utilizes non-invasive micro-CT scanning to provide unprecedented clarity on internal tissues and soft-body parts.

World’s largest rays may be diving to extreme depths to build mental maps of vast oceans

Researchers tracked oceanic manta rays and found they dive to depths over 1,200 meters to gather information about their environment and navigate across the open ocean. These dives are linked with increased horizontal travel afterwards, suggesting a mental mapping function.

Study first to show if nesting heat affects sea turtle hatchling ‘IQ’

A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that heat does not significantly affect the cognitive ability of sea turtle hatchlings. However, higher incubation temperatures negatively impact their physical traits, including shorter incubation durations, lower hatching success, and more frequent scute anomalies. The stud...

Underwater acrobatics of world's smallest marine dolphin: watch and listen

Scientists observed Hector's dolphins' subsurface behaviors, which may increase their risk of bycatch. The study sheds light on the conservation efforts for this critically endangered species.

New research reveals wild octopus arms in action

A new study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that every arm is capable of performing all action types, with front arms mainly used for exploration and back arms supporting movement. Octopuses demonstrated remarkable flexibility, showcasing complex motor control.

Zoology: Octopuses put their best arm forward for every task

Researchers studied wild octopus behavior, finding they use front four arms more often than rear four for various actions. The study reveals complex arm flexibility, mirroring human robotic arms.

Seaweed snare: Sargassum stops sea turtle hatchlings in their tracks

A new study finds that sargassum seaweed can significantly slow down sea turtle hatchlings in Florida, increasing their risk of predation and heat exposure. Researchers found that even small amounts of sargassum can impede hatchlings' progress, with leatherbacks taking 54% longer to crawl through light sargassum.

This common fish has an uncommon feature: Forehead teeth, used for mating

Researchers have discovered forehead teeth on spotted ratfish, which are used for mating and challenge traditional conceptions of dental history. The findings provide evidence that these unusual structures are indeed teeth, not denticles, and shed light on the evolution of oral teeth.

Paleontologists go back to the future, reconstruct fossilized functional diversity to inform conservation goals

Researchers have developed a method to reconstruct functional diversity of past ecosystems from fossils, enabling conservationists to compare healthy ecosystems with modern counterparts that have been altered by humans. This information can be used to set restoration and protection goals for endangered species.

Stress-tolerant corals could help buy time for reefs in a warming world

New research demonstrates that corals naturally thriving in extreme environments can be used to boost the resilience of reef sites. Despite being transplanted to more stable conditions, these corals retained their heat tolerance and activated pathways associated with DNA repair and homeostasis.

Deep sea worm fights ‘poison with poison’ to survive high arsenic and sulfide levels

A deep sea worm accumulates arsenic particles in its skin cells, which react with sulfide from hydrothermal vent fluids to form orpiment, a yellow mineral that reduces toxicity. This 'fighting poison with poison' strategy enables the worm to thrive in highly toxic environments.

Self-morphing, wing-like feet enhance surface maneuverability of water striders and robots

A team of researchers has developed a robot with self-morphing, wing-like feet that mimic the agile movements of water striders. The insect-scale robot enhances surface maneuverability and can execute sharp turns in just 50 milliseconds, rivaling the rapid aerial maneuvers of flying flies.

Chagos study highlights value of vast Marine Protected Areas

A new study highlights the importance of Vast Marine Protected Areas in protecting diverse marine species. Tracking data from sea turtles, manta rays, and seabirds revealed that 95% of tracking locations were recorded inside the Chagos Archipelago MPA.

New mega RNA virus may hold the key to mass oyster die-offs

Scientists have identified a previously unknown virus in Pacific oysters linked to annual mass die-offs, highlighting the importance of disease prevention measures. The discovery also underscores the need for further research into the causes of mortality in oyster populations.

Blending technologies may help coral offspring blossom

Researchers at Ohio State University developed two technologies to support the survival and growth of baby corals, combining Underwater Zooplankton Enhancement Light Array (UZELA) with 3D printed artificial settlement modules. This combination doubles coral survivorship and quadruples growth, providing a promising solution for coral re...

Spying on stingrays: first-ever tags reveal elusive behaviors and habitats

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute have developed a multi-sensor biologging tag on the whitespotted eagle ray, enabling long attachment times and detailed data collection. The study provides insights into the rays' behavior, habitat use, and social interactions.

Magellanic penguins may use currents to conserve energy on long journeys

Researchers found that Magellanic penguins alternate between traveling in direct routes and swimming with the flow of strong currents to maximize navigation efficiency. By doing so, they conserve energy while maintaining accurate headings towards their colonies.

Two new species of wart sea slugs discovered from North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Researchers have discovered two new species of wart sea slugs from North Sulawesi, Indonesia, including Phyllidia ovata and Phyllidia fontjei. The discoveries were made possible by citizen science contributions and add to the region's rich biodiversity.

The underwater Caprera Canyon, off the Mediterranean island of Sardinia, is a hotspot of whale and dolphin diversity

Located in the western Mediterranean Sea, the Caprera Canyon is home to a high concentration of cetacean species. The canyon's unique geography supports a diverse array of marine life, including whales and dolphins.

Meet the “plastivore” caterpillars that grow fat from eating plastic

Researchers have discovered a way for caterpillars to metabolically degrade plastics in a matter of days, storing it as body fat. However, this process comes at a cost, ultimately leading to the caterpillar's death.

"Shrinking" cod: how humans have altered the genetic make-up of fish

A study reveals that decades of overfishing have significantly altered the genetic composition of Eastern Baltic cod, leading to reduced growth rates and smaller sizes. The researchers found a correlation between slower growth and increased survival under high fishing pressure.

World’s soft coral diversity retains signature of an ancient, vanished sea

A recent study sheds light on the diverse species of soft corals, which were previously difficult to identify due to their variable sclerites. The researchers sequenced DNA from over 4,400 specimens and found that soft corals are more diverse than initially thought, with new discoveries made in regions previously unexplored.