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Salmon frequently mislabeled in Seattle grocery stores and sushi restaurants

A recent study by Tracie Delgado and colleagues found that 18% of salmon samples from Seattle grocery stores and sushi restaurants were mislabeled. The researchers called for continued development and enforcement of legislation against salmon fraud to prevent accurate tracking of supply chains and conserve wild salmon.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2024

Single housing extends adult lifespan in African turquoise killifish

Researchers found that single-housed adult fish exhibited a longer egg-laying period and slower aging process compared to group-housed counterparts. The study suggests that early-life social environment may influence life-long attributes beyond the typical relationship between growth rate and lifespan.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2024

What’s for dinner? Scientists unearth key clues to cuisine of resident killer whales

Researchers analyzed DNA in fecal samples to determine the diet of Alaska and southern resident killer whales. They found that both populations prefer salmon, but differ in when they switch to hunting other fish species. The study provides key insights into the delicate balance between regional abundance of different fish species.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeObservational study·DateSep 19, 2024

New 'grumpy' fish species discovered in the Red Sea

A new species of fish, dubbed the grumpy dwarfgoby, has been discovered in the Red Sea with a surprisingly menacing appearance. The species, which is less than 2 centimeters long, has bright red coloration that helps it blend into its natural habitat.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateSep 16, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Mirror, mirror, in my tank, who’s the biggest fish of all?

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found that bluestreak cleaner wrasse use mirrors to evaluate their body size against other fish before attacking. This study suggests that these animals possess mental states similar to private self-awareness, shedding light on the evolution of self-awareness in non-human species.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 11, 2024

Thanks to humans, Salish Sea waters are too noisy for resident orcas to hunt successfully

Underwater noise pollution from human activities significantly impacts the ability of orcas to hunt successfully in the Salish Sea. The study found that increased ambient noise levels, particularly around vessel propellers, interfere with echolocation behavior and hunting efforts. This hindrance affects females more than males, potenti...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 10, 2024
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Regulatory gene influences shape recognition in medaka fish

A research team discovered an evolutionarily distinct variant of the Hmgn2 gene, oHmgn2, which influences shape preference in medaka fish. The study found that medaka lacking functional oHmgn2 had difficulty distinguishing between shapes.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2024

Pollution affect the growth and behaviour of aquatic organisms

A study by University of Jyväskylä found that chronic exposure to manganese sulphate hampers the growth and alters behaviour of zebra fish. Fish with fast life-history traits were more sensitive to pollution, showing slower growth and lower condition factors.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2024

Blind cavefish have extraordinary taste buds

Researchers found that blind cavefish develop more taste buds on their head and chin, particularly after 18 months of age. This adaptation is thought to be an adaptive trait, allowing the fish to better detect food sources like bat guano.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 15, 2024
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.

Lake Erie walleye growth is driven by parents’ size, experience

A new study found that Lake Erie walleye growth is influenced more by the size and experiences of their parents than by recent environmental conditions. The study analyzed data from 1982 to 2015 and found that cold winters and larger mothers were associated with faster growth in offspring.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateAug 14, 2024

Non-biting midges help us understand how to protect Lake Balaton

Researchers analyzed lake macroinvertebrate fauna, particularly chironomids, to reconstruct the lake's natural state. This helps establish a reference point for conservation purposes, as significant changes occurred during the economic boom and fish stocking.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateAug 8, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Two new hillstream suck-loach species discovered in southwest China

Researchers have identified two new species of hillstream suck-loach, Beaufortia granulopinna and Beaufortia viridis, from the upper Pearl River system in southwest China. These species exhibit unique morphological specializations, including suction cup-like fins that enable them to adhere to rocky substrates.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZoosystematics and Evolution·DateJul 22, 2024

To walk, you only need fins (and maybe a sense of adventure)

Researchers studied the anatomy of mudskippers to understand their adaptations to life on land. They found that the fish's muscles in the pectoral fins are bigger and that some bone-connecting tendons were replaced by fascia tissue, providing stability and strength for walking.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of Anatomy·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 19, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Fishy parenting? Punishing offspring encourages cooperation

A study by Osaka Metropolitan University reveals that fish use physical punishment to promote helping behavior in their offspring, demonstrating advanced social and cognitive abilities. The research highlights the presence of punishment in animal societies, bridging a gap in understanding cooperative behavior and its mechanisms.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 18, 2024

Fish in schools have an easier time swimming in rough waters

A recent study found that schooling fish expend up to 79% less energy while swimming in turbulent water compared to solitary fish. This suggests that traveling in schools allows fish to shield each other from disruptive water currents, making it easier to swim through rough waters.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

Trout in mine-polluted rivers are genetically ‘isolated’

Researchers found metal-tolerant trout populations in British and Irish rivers are genetically distinct due to high levels of metal pollution. The lack of genetic diversity in these populations makes them more susceptible to environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateMay 30, 2024

How killifish embryos use suspended animation to survive over 8 months of drought

Researchers discovered that killifish embryos co-opted ancient genes, originating over 473 million years ago, to enable diapause during the annual dry season. The team found significant overlap in gene expression patterns between killifish and other animals, including house mice, suggesting a common mechanism for diapause evolution.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2024
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.

Cloudy waters causes African fish to develop bigger eyes

Researchers found that young African fish raised in cloudy water developed larger eye structures than those raised in clear water. As the fish age, they lose this ability to adapt. The study also showed that older fish have bigger brains and optic lobes, suggesting different sensory demands at various stages of life.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2024

Most dangerous areas for whale shark-shipping vessel collisions revealed

Researchers have identified heavily used shipping lanes that pass through crucial whale shark feeding grounds, posing a threat to this endangered species. Targeted measures, such as reducing ship speed, could help minimize the impact on the shipping industry while protecting whale sharks.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 14, 2024

In a reservoir in Southeast Brazil, introduction of a fish native to the Amazon has reduced native species diversity

The introduction of the Silver croaker fish to a Brazilian reservoir has led to a sharp decline in native species diversity. The study, published in Biological Invasions, analyzed data from 2001-2016 and found that the invader had become the most abundant fish species, negatively affecting local biodiversity.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiological Invasions·DateMay 13, 2024

Fixin’ to be flexitarian: Scrap fish and invasive species can liven up vegetables

A new study suggests that incorporating seafood rich in umami, such as fish and shellfish, into vegetable dishes can boost their flavor and make them more appealing. The research uses a mathematical equation to calculate the umami content of various seafood options, finding that even small amounts can greatly enhance the taste.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalInternational Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science·DateApr 29, 2024
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.

U.S. reservoirs hold billions of pounds of fish

A study from the University of California, Davis, estimates that U.S. reservoirs contain approximately 7.7 billion pounds of fish, with southern reservoirs holding over 4 billion pounds. Proper management could play a major role in food security and fisheries conservation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 29, 2024

Unveiling the mysteries of cell division in embryos with timelapse photography

Researchers used medaka fish, CRISPR and new imaging techniques to study embryonic mitosis. They discovered unique spindles assemble in early embryos and found Ran-GTP plays a decisive role in spindle formation, which diminishes later in development. The study paves the way for further exploration of embryonic mitosis.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 24, 2024

UBC research helps migrating salmon survive mortality hot-spot

A study by UBC researchers found that only 40% of coho salmon remained alive three kilometers from release, and fewer than one-quarter reached the Lions Gate Bridge 20 kilometers away. The 'mortality hot-spot' was confirmed in Burrard Inlet, but the research also suggests ways to increase survival rates through changing release locations.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNorth American Journal of Fisheries Management·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024

Disease-resistant strains of carp sparks hope in aquaculture

A new study reveals that disease-resistant fish exhibit lower viral loads and higher survival rates compared to susceptible counterparts. The results demonstrate the benefits of breeding resistant animals for sustainable food production and animal welfare.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2024

What four decades of canned salmon reveal about marine food webs

A study analyzing canned salmon from 1979 to 2021 found stable anisakid worm levels in coho and sockeye salmon, while pink and chum salmon showed a rise. This suggests that the marine food web has adapted to changing conditions, with rising parasite levels indicating potential ecosystem shifts.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2024
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.

'Smart swarms' of tiny robots inspired by natural herd mentality

By replicating nature's swarm behavior, researchers have created 'smart swarms' of microscopic robots that can adapt to changing environments, leading to improved task performance. This breakthrough enables potential applications in autonomous drone fleets, efficient drug delivery, and cleaning contaminated water.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 3, 2024

Carbon credits would enable restoration of UK saltmarshes say experts

A UK feasibility study suggests that a carbon credit scheme could support private investment in saltmarsh restoration, providing vital habitat for wildlife and addressing the climate crisis. The introduction of a Saltmarsh Code would pave the way for projects with public financing to contribute to restoration efforts.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·DateMar 28, 2024

Overeating and starving both damage the liver: Cavefish provide new insight into fatty liver disease

Researchers have identified a gene responsible for the development of starvation-induced fatty liver in cavefish, which are able to protect their liver due to reduced fat accumulation. This genetic basis has implications for understanding and addressing liver conditions in humans, including Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Unlocking the energetic secrets of collective animal movement: How group behavior reduces energy costs in fish

A study by Harvard researchers found that fish group behavior can reduce energy costs by up to 50%, with coordinated movement allowing for more efficient swimming. By measuring the energetic cost of individual and group movements, the team discovered a J-shaped relationship between speed and energy expenditure.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournaleLife·DateFeb 20, 2024

A green alternative for treating Streptococcus iniae bacteria in hybrid striped bass

A novel antimicrobial protein, ClyX-2, effectively cures S. iniae infections in hybrid striped bass with a 95% survival rate, outperforming traditional antibiotic treatments like carbenicillin. The discovery aims to reduce the economic loss of $150 million annually caused by streptococcosis and promote sustainable aquaculture practices.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalFish & Shellfish Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

First-ever sighting of a live newborn great white

Wildlife filmmaker Carlos Gauna and UC Riverside student Phillip Sternes observed a 5-foot-long pure-white shark pup shedding its embryonic layer. The location off central California's coast is proposed as a potential great white breeding ground, which could help protect endangered species.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Biology of Fishes·DateJan 29, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Clonal fish: Same genes, same environment – different fitness levels

Researchers found that genetically identical Amazon mollies exhibit differences in offspring size and reproductive output, indicating varying levels of biological fitness. The study suggests that epigenetics, stochasticity, and micro-environmental factors play a role in the emergence of individuality.

SourceTechnische Universität Berlin – Science of Intelligence·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 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.

Two fins are better than one: Fish synchronize tail fins to save energy

Researchers from Tohoku University developed a model that simulates fish tail fin motion and reveals the underlying mechanisms behind synchronized swimming. The study found that synchronizing fin movements reduces energy dissipation, but the optimal timing may not always lead to conservation of energy.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 6, 2023

To navigate the world, we all shimmy like these electric fish

Researchers discovered a wide range of organisms, including microbes and humans, exhibit similar movement patterns to navigate their surroundings. These patterns are thought to be linked to uncertainty management in the brain.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

A new versatile tool for studying fish hormones - may transform fish farming

A new versatile platform controls peptide hormones in fish, revealing surprising findings about conserved genetic networks and adaptable hormone regulation. This innovative method holds promise for transforming fish farming practices and exploring ways to prolong vertebrate lifespan.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2023

Pinpointing the emergence of muddy flavors in your fish

Researchers have pinpointed the emergence of muddy flavors in farmed fish by measuring the concentration of geosmin and other compounds. The study highlights the importance of water quality management to prevent the production of off-flavor compounds, which can impact aquaculture industry revenue and sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFood Research International·DateOct 19, 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.

Explosion in fish biodiversity due to genetic recycling

Researchers found that genetic recycling enabled the emergence and adaptation of 500 cichlid species in Lake Victoria over just 16,000 years. The study identified unique ancient genes and hybridisation as key drivers of this unprecedented biodiversity explosion.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2023

Freshwater connectivity can transport environmental DNA through the landscape

Research finds that water movement between lakes can transport environmental DNA, making eDNA a promising tool for tracking aquatic species and monitoring biodiversity. The study highlights the importance of considering landscape connectivity when designing eDNA surveys to ensure accurate biodiversity assessments.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateSep 12, 2023

Stormwater biofiltration increases coho salmon hatchling survival

A study published in Science of the Total Environment found that biofiltration increased coho salmon hatchling survival by up to 87%, reducing mortality from stormwater runoff exposure. The method effectively removes contaminants, but implementation faces hurdles due to land requirements.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateAug 24, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Fish mercury peaks in winter and near spawning, and reduces after growing season

A recent study from the University of Helsinki found that fish mercury concentrations are highest in winter and near spring spawning, but lowest in autumn after the growing season. This seasonal pattern is linked to changes in fish metabolism and food availability during colder months.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateJul 5, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Virginia Tech study reveals reason hellbenders are disappearing

A Virginia Tech study found that hellbender fathers are more likely to eat their eggs in deforested areas, leading to a drastic increase in filial cannibalism. The research suggests that protecting and re-establishing forest cover around streams is crucial for the species' survival.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalThe American Naturalist·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2023

New method traces ancestry of hybrid plants and animals

A biologist at Binghamton University has developed a new method to uncover the parent species of hybrid plants and animals. By examining genomic patterns within these hybrids, researchers can identify distinct ancestries and determine the order in which chromosomes were inherited from their progenitor species.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 13, 2023