Articles tagged with Fish
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Research reveals eight spider families preying on fish worldwide, with diverse species adapting to aquatic environments to catch fish even larger than themselves. Semi-aquatic spiders possess powerful neurotoxins and enzymes to kill and digest their prey.
Research by Culum Brown suggests that fish are intelligent, social creatures capable of complex behaviors such as learning, cooperation, and tool use. The study concludes that fish should be afforded protection similar to other vertebrates, considering their pain perception and sentience
New research reveals that zebra fish use optic flow but steer towards stronger flows instead of away from them. This may be due to the turbid underwater environment where visibility is limited.
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that wild coho salmon choosing mates with dissimilar MHC profiles have higher reproductive success. Hatchery-reared coho, however, lack this ability to select genetically diverse mates.
Research from North Carolina State University found that dam removal improves spawning grounds for American shad and may boost their survival rates. The study reveals high mortality rates among adult fish during spawning, but suggests that improving fish passage could lead to better outcomes.
Scientists discover new golden bass species from deep waters off Curaçao, shedding light on Caribbean reef biodiversity. The newly described Liopropoma santi is characterized by its predominantly yellow body and fins.
A University of Strathclyde report suggests that EU's ban on ditching unwanted fish could have unintended consequences on wildlife and fail to improve fish stocks. Changing fishing practices to eliminate unwanted catches has dramatic effects on the entire food web, with major benefits for birds, mammals, and fish stocks.
Scientists propose new climate adaptation tools to reduce threats to amphibians, prioritizing habitat restoration in Western North America's mountainous regions. Removing non-native fish is a key strategy to restore resilience to landscapes.
Researchers have discovered two new US turtle species, the Suwannee and Apalachicola alligator snapping turtles, which are found in the southeastern United States. These ancient reptiles were previously thought to be a single species, but genetic analysis reveals deep evolutionary divisions between them.
Researchers at UMass Amherst and INPA discovered a new genus and species of electric knifefish in the Negro River, revealing unique features such as electric organs and distinct pulse patterns. The discovery is expected to contribute to a better understanding of Amazonian biodiversity and its adaptations.
Researchers from PNNL explore ways to protect fish from barotrauma, a phenomenon caused by dramatic shifts in water pressure near dams. Modifying turbines to minimize pressure change is a promising solution, improving turbine designs and reducing injuries to fish.
Two new species of weakly electric fishes, Petrocephalus boboto and Petrocephalus arnegardi, have been discovered in the Congo River basin. The species were named after words meaning peace and fellowship in Lingala language, reflecting the authors' hope for peace in troubled Central Africa.
A new study reveals that reef fish diversified into two distinct groups of fish, with the first group arriving around 70-90 million years ago, during a time when coral reefs were built by mollusks called rudists. By 50 million years ago, modern coral reefs and their inhabitants had largely taken shape.
A new study by North Carolina State University researchers found that approximately 90% of black sea bass with visible barotrauma survived, similar to those without injury. The findings inform stock assessments for sustainable fishing practices and may provide insights into mortality rates for other species.
A new study finds that adipose fins have evolved repeatedly and independently in multiple species of teleost fish, representing a unique example of convergent evolution. The research provides a new model for exploring the evolution of vertebrate appendages and challenges traditional views on how new fins and limbs develop.
A new study links bioluminescence with increased species diversity in the deep sea. Fish that use light for communication are diversifying faster than those using it for camouflage. Bioluminescent signaling may be critical to diversification of fishes in the deep sea.
A recent study found that competition between fish species in Lake Tanganyika drives the formation of new species. Two genetically distinct ecomorphs of a species have been identified, with large and small individuals occupying different habitats.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a method to predict the impacts of invasive species based on their behavior. By analyzing the rate at which an organism consumes resources, they found that 'damaging invaders' consistently have higher curves than native species, leading to population decline and extinction.
A team of Canadian biologists developed a framework to protect fish and ecosystems, highlighting the importance of connecting waterways, protecting habitats, and adopting adaptive management strategies. The 9 guiding principles aim to promote sustainable fisheries and conserve biodiversity.
Researchers at the Prairie Research Institute found low concentrations of mercury, arsenic, and selenium in bighead and silver carp fillets from the Illinois River. These levels do not pose a health risk to the majority of human consumers, but some individuals may need to limit consumption.
A new study confirms that reducing lionfish numbers by 75-95% can allow rapid recovery of native fish biomass and aid larger ecosystem recovery. Native species such as Nassau grouper and yellowtail snapper increased by 50-70% on reefs where lionfish were kept below threshold densities.