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Deep black as midnight: striking new moray eel discovered in Central Indo-Pacific river mouths, named after god of the underworld

A new moray eel species has been discovered in Central Indo-Pacific river mouths, characterized by its deep black coloration and ability to thrive in dim environments. The Hades' snake moray was found in southern Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Fiji, and is considered an important addition to the study of freshwater moray eels.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 30, 2024

Fish-friendly dentistry: New method makes oral research non-lethal

Researchers at OIST have developed a customizable method for studying detailed dental characteristics of living fish and vertebrates without harming them. This approach allows for non-destructive examination of tooth replacement and development over time, revealing valuable information on feeding habits and comparative anatomy.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of Morphology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 26, 2024

Animal products improve child nutrition in Africa

A recent study by the University of Bonn and CABI Centre in Kenya found that milk, eggs, and fish consumption has a positive effect on childhood development in Africa. The study covered over 32,000 child observations across five African countries and showed that animal products significantly reduce the risk of stunting.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2024

New model can help understand coexistence in nature

Researchers at Uppsala University developed a mathematical model to understand how seabird species coexist on isolated islands. The model shows that different species use distinct fishing zones, maximizing energy intake based on traits like wing length and diving depth.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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