Articles tagged with Fish
Research from NIMBioS found that the timing of spawning is crucial for the survival of larval fish, with success rates higher on days when spawning is observed to occur. This study has important implications for fisheries management and conservation, highlighting the need to protect spawning aggregations.
Scientists discover that mass extinction event triggered by asteroid strike led to the rise of ray-finned fishes as the ocean's most diverse and dominant vertebrates. The abundance of ray-finned fish teeth began to explode after the extinction event, becoming eight times more abundant in 24 million years.
The study highlights seven potential benefits of pairing territorial use rights in fisheries (TURFs) and marine reserves, including increased fish abundance, reduced IUU fishing, and improved conservation. TURFs grant exclusive access to designated areas, promoting local ownership and conservation measures.
Climate change is expected to increase pesticide toxicity in fish, as warmer temperatures become toxic at the upper limit of species' temperature tolerance. The study reveals that pesticides and industrial contaminants become toxic when temperatures reach 50C, making fish more vulnerable to environmental changes.
A new study finds that genetic differences between American eels that feed in freshwater and brackish environments explain their decline. The research identifies 99 genes associated with growth rate, heart development, and smell, highlighting the importance of genetics in determining eel survival.
Research led at the University of Strathclyde suggests that predatory seals are a major obstacle to cod stock recovery in Scottish waters. The study found that grey seal predation has increased to compensate for declining fishing efforts, leading to losses of over 40% of the total stock.
Researchers develop new method to trace salmon migration and habitat use by analyzing ear bones for strontium signatures. This technique may aid conservation efforts for threatened salmon populations facing climate change, industrial development, and overfishing.
Endothermic fish, including sharks and tunas, can swim two and a half times faster and twice as far as cold-blooded species. This unique physiological characteristic allows them to maximize their swimming distance and speed, providing benefits for hunting and reproduction.
A team of researchers has identified the first fossil specimens of a major group of killifishes that is widely distributed in freshwater habitats today. The fossils, which date back to 6 million years ago, provide new insights into the evolution of bony fishes and the diversification of species.
Scientists have devised a new method to investigate factors contributing to biological invasions of non-native species. The study successfully distinguished between two-wave and single-wave invasions using genetic data, allowing for better ecological understanding and management strategies.
Researchers developed a powerful new model to help decision makers choose cost-effective barrier removal projects, doubling habitat accessible to migratory fish. The study found that coordinated efforts across the entire basin are nine times more cost-effective than local or county-level efforts.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee researchers found that exposure to metformin causes intersex conditions and stunted growth in male fish. The diabetes medication was detected in freshwater systems worldwide and is being investigated as a potential endocrine disruptor.
Researchers have identified a second possible specimen of the rare 'pocket shark,' measuring just 5.5 inches long, with distinct physiological features and an unhealed umbilical scar.
Research predicts that warming seas will constrain fish habitats, leading to reduced abundance of commercial species. The study used a model combining fisheries datasets and climate projections to predict future distributions of UK favourite fish.
Scientists discovered that Lake Erie's dead zones are variable and move erratically, affecting fish distributions and catch rates. Fish like yellow perch cluster at the edges of these areas, making it essential to determine effective fishing strategies.
A global study found that nearly 83% of fished coral reefs have lost more than half their fish biomass, highlighting the need for effective management and conservation strategies. Marine reserves can recover fish populations in approximately 35 years, while heavily depleted reefs take around 60 years to recover.
A study published in Current Biology reveals that the dusky dottyback, a small predatory fish found on coral reefs, changes its color to mimic other fish species to hunt juvenile offspring. This clever strategy also helps the fish avoid detection by predators.
The EU's new Common Fisheries Policy aims to reduce waste and improve fish stocks, but a University of Strathclyde study suggests it may be difficult for the industry to comply. The study found that while overall catches have decreased, the proportion of catch discarded has increased due to an increase in small fish being caught.
By channeling food to large individuals, fish biomass doubles, highlighting the importance of size-dependent efficiency in population growth. This study has significant implications for fisheries management and predator-prey interactions.
A new study reveals that female killifish avoid mating with males of closely related species and also tend to shun males of their own species if they come from an unfamiliar population. This phenomenon, called cascade reinforcement, can lead to the early stages of speciation.
A recent study by the University of Connecticut explores the potential of important fish species to adapt to a more acidic ocean due to climate change. The researchers found that related fish had similar lifespans, suggesting a significant genetic component to survival in an acidic environment.
Researchers found that bigmouth sleepers adapt by changing their behaviors, sex ratio, and physical appearance to survive on insects, snails, and crustaceans when isolated from their normal prey. The study suggests that evolution may be occurring in a predictable way, with the ability to anticipate ecological changes.
Scientists at USF have developed a handheld sensor that can debunk fraudulent seafood species claims, helping ensure consumers get what they pay for. The QuadPyre RT-NASBA technology is accurate enough to detect grouper substitution on cooked fish at the point of restaurant service.
A University of Bristol undergraduate has uncovered the feeding habits of an ancient fish, Dapedium, which was well-adapted to crush shells. The study reveals that Dapedium's jaws moved slowly but strongly to work on hard-shelled prey, similar to modern sea breams.
China's enormous aquaculture sector is under scrutiny for its impact on global seafood supplies. The Stanford-led study suggests a more sustainable alternative using processing waste to reduce pressure on wild fisheries.
A team of scientists has identified the nature of fish's 'sixth sense', which allows them to detect flows of water. The research found that a unique layout of flow sensors on the surface of fish is nearly universal across species, enabling them to retrieve signals about water flow and use this information in different behaviors.
A new model developed by Penn State researchers can accurately identify stream sections suitable for wild brook trout, helping fisheries managers protect habitat. The model uses characteristics like water temperature and soil type to predict brook trout occurrence in the eastern United States.
A new study reveals that Dolly Varden, a char species in southeast Alaska, have successfully adjusted their migrations to follow the timing of salmon spawning, ensuring access to a key food source. This adaptability suggests that at least some species may be more resilient to climate-induced changes in migration timing.
A three-year restoration project in Pittsburgh's Frick Park has improved the health of Nine Mile Run, a stream affected by urbanization. The project, led by University of Pittsburgh hydrologist Dan Bain, involved rerouting the creek and creating habitats for fish and other species.
A new trout species, Salmo kottelati, has been described from the Alakır Stream in Antalya, Turkey. The species is distinguished by its smaller parr marks, larger mouth gape, and maxilla, which set it apart from other genera of salmonids.
Naturally spawned juvenile sockeye are migrating to the ocean and returning as adults at a much higher rate than others released from hatcheries. The analysis indicates that the program to save the species has succeeded in rebuilding populations in the wild, with the species regaining fitness.
Biologists believe the increased return rate of naturally spawned sockeye is high enough for the species to eventually sustain itself in the wild. Naturally spawned fish are returning at rates up to three times higher than those released from hatcheries.
Leading coral reef scientists argue that a shift away from extinction threat is needed to protect marine ecosystems. Researchers found no relationship between species abundance and geographic range, highlighting the weaknesses in current approaches to assessing extinction risk.
A study from North Carolina State University reveals that human-induced habitat alteration leads to changes in the shape and size of male mosquitofish genitalia, particularly in fragmented waters. The research suggests that these changes may be driven by reduced predation pressure, which can influence reproductive success.
The November issue of Frontiers in Ecology and Environment presents research on connectivity cost calculations for conservation corridors, agricultural companions that improve yields, and the consequences of growing jellyfish populations for human well-being.
Researchers call for networks of marine protected areas, co-ordinated governance, and local community involvement to tackle overfishing and habitat destruction. Small-scale fisheries, which involve 90% of the world's fishers, are a major threat, with destructive practices like bottom trawling causing widespread damage.
A study identified 181 California dams that may need increased water flows to protect native fish, with the top priority dams including Trinity Dam and New Melones Dam. The new tool provides a scientific basis for dam operators to prioritize management and reduce the risk of extinction for many native species.
Researchers at the University of Tennessee discovered that certain species of cichlid fish exhibit playful behavior, such as attacking a thermometer. This finding suggests that play is not unique to humans and may be an essential part of animal biology.
Researchers studying blind cave fish are uncovering insights into degenerative eye disease and sleep disturbance. The species' genome sequence reveals similarities with the human genome, suggesting potential avenues for understanding human diseases.
A study by researchers at the University of York found that domestic fish supplies have fallen to their lowest point in over 70 years, with only one fifth of recommended consumption levels met. The report also highlights the environmental costs of aquaculture and calls for sustainable production methods.
A new study suggests that electrofishing can effectively remove non-native Brook Trout from small Rocky Mountain streams, preserving native Westslope Cutthroat Trout populations. The method involves using electrical shock to target and remove specific unwanted species, reducing impacts on native fish and macro-invertebrates.
A study by University of South Carolina researchers found that natural processes can cause dramatic year-to-year drops in fish populations. The team used tree rings to extrapolate back in time nearly 600 years and found that low winter upwelling, which favors fish growth, has increased recently, sparking concerns about climate change.
Two tropical rabbitfish species are destroying algal forests in eastern Mediterranean, reducing large seaweeds and algae by 65% and 60%. Climate change is enabling their expansion, posing a threat to entire Mediterranean basin.
A study by NOAA's NCCOS found that warming Atlantic temperatures are causing fish communities to shift towards deeper, warmer waters. The researchers used year-round bottom water temperature data and fish community surveys to detect climate change-induced shifts in algal populations.
Researchers found that hybridization can lead to increased genetic diversity in wild populations, but natural selection can ultimately remove adaptive advantages. The study suggests that hybridized populations may not be as affected by human-mediated hybridization with domesticated species.
Researchers found similarities between field and laboratory studies on Gulf killifish responses to Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Changes in genome expression were detected, with high concentrations causing developmental defects and DNA damage.
A conservation biologist's study provides crucial guidance for rescuing the critically endangered pupfish by establishing a captive breeding program. The research found that transferring pupfish eggs to a facility in the fall and limiting adult migrations are critical for reducing impact on the wild population.
Researchers found that coral trout can choose the best moray partner for hunting, and even learn which one is more helpful. They use intentional communication to manipulate the behavior of suitable species to achieve a common goal.
Researchers sequenced five African cichlid fish genomes to understand the molecular basis of adaptation in vertebrates. They found a variety of genomic changes that enabled the fishes to thrive in new habitats and ecological niches.
Scientists at Max Planck Institute identified pheromone in male Mozambique tilapia urine that boosts hormone production and accelerates oocyte maturation in females, triggering spawning. The discovery may help optimize aquaculture of food fish and control invasive species behavior.
A new study from the University of British Columbia found that male stickleback fish with bigger brains are more likely to care for their young. The research compared regular male sticklebacks to white sticklebacks, which do not care for offspring, and found a link between brain size and parental behavior.
A study suggests that climate change will reduce hydrologic connectivity in the Verde River Basin by mid-century, forcing fish to travel longer distances for resources. The decrease in connectivity will also impact spawning, as fish are more mobile during this period.
Research by Kurt Ingeman at Oregon State University shows that lionfish exhibit alarming behavior, staying in one area and consuming prey even when numbers are low. This makes them more formidable predators than native species, threatening local extinction.
A new study found that different fish species respond uniquely to noise pollution, with three-spined sticklebacks reacting faster to sound when a predator is present. This discovery highlights the need for targeted management of noise in marine environments to mitigate its effects on aquatic ecosystems.
Scientists studied wild Atlantic salmon from Norway and France, finding both populations had similar capabilities when warmed. They developed temperature tolerance by increasing acclimation temperatures, raising fish's survival in extreme heat.
The Great Barrier Reef's rezoning has led to the creation of green zones, protecting 30% of the reef and conserving biodiversity. The plan also minimizes impacts on fishing industries while increasing fish and shark populations in protected areas.
Researchers found that African Cichlids demonstrated complex behaviors and recalled previous training experiences after 12-day rest period. They showed a distinct preference for the area associated with food reward, suggesting advanced memory capabilities.
Two new fish-spawning reefs will be built in the St. Clair River to boost native species such as lake sturgeon, walleye, and lake whitefish. The $3.5 million project aims to restore habitat by providing river-bottom rock structures suitable for spawning.
High CO2 levels, projected to double by the end of the century, impair fish's ability to recognize school-mates. Fish reared under elevated CO2 conditions showed no preference for familiar or unfamiliar schools.
Researchers warn that invasive watersnakes in California pose a threat to native and endangered species, including the giant gartersnake, California tiger salamander, and foothill yellow-legged frog. The snakes' spread could disrupt ecosystems and lead to further declines of already imperiled native fish and amphibians.