Articles tagged with Marine Fishes
Virginia Tech researchers successfully tagged a young Mediterranean shortfin mako shark, gathering valuable data on its movements and habitat usage. The shark traveled over 750 miles in 54 days, suggesting that protecting nursery areas may not be enough to prevent its decline.
Researchers observed coordinated attacks by killer whales on whale sharks in the Gulf of California, suggesting specialized hunting techniques. The pod targeted the whale shark's ventral side, exploiting its vulnerability, and extracted nutrient-rich organs from the liver.
Researchers found neurotransmitters GABA and choline in the venom of estuarine and reef stonefish, which can modulate cardiovascular function. The discovery could aid in targeted treatments and venom-derived compound development for drug discovery.
Researchers develop counterillumination technology to trick great white sharks' visual systems, making them less likely to attack humans. By using LED lights in specific patterns and brightness, the device disrupts the shark's silhouette, reducing the risk of bites.
A mathematical model developed by researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University predicts how the environment affects the life choices of salmon, revealing a complex impact on population evolution. The model correctly forecasts changes in migration patterns in response to environmental conditions, shedding light on eco-evolutionary respo...
Scientists used acoustic mapping technique to track vulnerable capelin species and observe massive predation event involving Atlantic cod. The study revealed that as climate change causes Arctic ice sheet to retreat, capelin will be more stressed and vulnerable to natural predation events.
Research reveals two species of sardine in the California Current, with Japanese sardines arriving on the West Coast around 2022. The discovery highlights the impact of marine heatwaves and changing ocean conditions on fish distributions.
A research team, led by Francesco Ferretti, located signs of white sharks at four sites in the Sicilian Channel, a stronghold of the endangered species. The team used improved methods and technologies, including eDNA sampling and camera traps, to detect the presence of the sharks.
Research finds ocean connectivity impacts herbivorous reef fish groups, critical to coral reef resilience, and sea surface temperature and chlorophyll levels predict fish distribution. Protecting reefs is essential for rapidly growing communities dependent on reefs, vulnerable to climate change.
The study, led by an international team of scientists, suggests that global fish farming relies on significantly larger quantities of wild-caught ocean fish than previously calculated. The findings indicate a 27-307% higher ratio of wild fish inputs to farmed fish outputs, with some species relying on twice the farmed biomass produced.
A new study by Harvard researchers finds alarmingly high PFAS concentrations in fish tissues even up to 8 km from the military base. The results underscore the urgent need for more comprehensive monitoring of PFAS in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in regions where freshwater fishing is an important food source.
A new study reveals that decades of human activities have reduced Chinook salmon size and disrupted their ability to spawn successfully. Effective management strategies can involve adjusting hatchery or harvest practices, restoring spawning sites with smaller river gravel, and protecting ecosystems.
A recent study from the University of Sydney found that international conservation efforts account for approximately 10 percent of fish biomass on coral reefs. Increasing Marine Protected Areas and implementing fisheries restrictions are key to sustaining fish populations, but more work is needed to meet the 30x30 initiative.
A new study published in Nature Climate Change predicts that global warming will lead to increased co-occurrence of whale sharks and large ships, potentially increasing the likelihood of ship strikes. The research found that some newly suitable habitats overlapped with busy shipping routes, threatening the already endangered species.
Researchers discovered that sea robins' legs are covered in sensory papillae with taste receptors, allowing them to detect and uncover food. The findings reveal an ancient gene controlling leg development and sensory organ formation, shedding light on the evolution of complex traits in wild organisms.
The study reveals that sea robin legs are sensitive to both mechanical and chemical stimuli, and are covered in papillae similar to human taste buds. The research provides new insights into the evolution of this unique trait, which could offer clues about how humans developed bipedalism.
A team of researchers from the University of Washington has developed a flexible pipe with an interior helical structure inspired by shark intestines, which can keep fluid flowing in one direction without flaps. The design rivaled and exceeded Tesla valves, a one-way fluid flow device invented over a century ago.
High-contrast patterns on humbug damselfish bodies serve dual purpose: camouflage when stationary and motion dazzle when moving. The fish adapt their behavior based on environment, using motion dazzle to confuse predators when feeding outside coral colonies.
Industrial fishing practices in tropical and subtropical waters release high levels of methylmercury into the ocean. The majority of this mercury is found in large pelagic fish like tuna, which are then consumed by humans. This can lead to developmental delays in children and impaired cardiovascular health in adults.
A new set of 11 golden rules aims to minimize ocean destruction and preserve fish populations. The rules prioritize minimizing impacts on marine species, habitats, and human communities, while supporting sustainable fishing practices.
Researchers found that octopus-hunting groups have unique properties, including hierarchical structure and specialized roles. Fish play a crucial role in environmental exploration and prey detection efficiency, while the octopus determines timing and initiation of movement.
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.
A newly discovered ancient primitive Devonian coelacanth fish, Ngamugawi wirngarri, has provided significant insights into the early anatomy of this lineage that eventually led to humans. The fossil, dating from the Devonian Period, reveals that tectonic plate activity had a profound influence on rates of coelacanth evolution.
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...
Grey reef sharks are deserting coral reefs in response to environmental stress caused by warming oceans. The study found that sharks are choosing to move into offshore waters, exacerbating declines in shark populations already threatened by exploitation.
Researchers have identified a surprising surge in thyroid and corticoid gene activity during the early larval stage of the Malabar grouper, which could help address disease management challenges in aquaculture. The study provides new insights into the complex hormone-driven processes underlying fish development and metamorphosis.
Researchers found a pregnant porbeagle shark was likely killed by a great white shark, highlighting the complexity of shark interactions. The study used satellite tags to track the shark's movements before it stopped transmitting, indicating it had been hunted and eaten.
A new species of Antarctic dragonfish, Akarotaxis gouldae, has been identified in waters off the western Antarctic Peninsula. The discovery highlights the fragile state of the Antarctic ecosystem and raises concerns about the impact of commercial fishing activities on this vulnerable species.
Researchers found that stock assessments have often been overly optimistic, with a third of sustainably fished stocks classified as overfished. They call for simpler models and greater use of the precautionary principle to protect fish stocks.
Researchers found the US can meet its entire seafood demand through domestic production, but current exports and imports limit self-reliance. Increasing consumption of lesser-exported species like herring and anchovy could strengthen the domestic supply and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
Research reveals that fish in Greenlandic waters feed on jellyfish, with some species making up the majority of their diet. The study's findings challenge previous assumptions about the role of jellyfish in marine food webs and highlight the need for further research on gelatinous zooplankton's impact.
A UK-based study reveals that an offshore mussel farm is reviving shellfish reefs off the English south coast, a process previously unseen in 150 years. The research found mussels deposited on the seabed create habitats for commercially important species like European lobsters and brown crabs.
Climate change is expected to shift the distribution of eight commercially important marine fish and invertebrate species northwards due to warmer water temperatures and loss of sea ice habitat. This could lead to changes in the abundance and economic viability of fisheries, with some species potentially benefiting while others decline.
Researchers have confirmed the presence of two critically endangered shark species, broadnose sevengill and soupfin, in Puget Sound, highlighting changes in the Salish Sea's ecosystem. The discovery indicates potential changes in food webs and the need for continued monitoring.
A new study has determined the vertical limits of the marine environment in the Southwest Atlantic, revealing that the mesophotic zone extends to a depth of between 15m and 18m. The research found distinct differences in fish diversity and species composition between the shallow and mesophotic zones.
Researchers captured a unique opportunity to study the impact of vessel strikes on large marine animals. The basking shark was struck while feeding on the surface, causing visible damage and increasing its frequency of tailbeat as it headed to the seafloor.
A global study by Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology demonstrates the benefit of marine protected areas to recreational fisheries, producing more 'trophy-size' fish just outside fully protected areas. The effect is growing stronger over time, with tangible benefits materializing in decades.
A recent study published in Science Advances found that the most threatened reef fishes receive less attention from scientists and the public due to commercial value vs. ecological importance. Small fish families like blennies and gobies are underrepresented despite their crucial role in trophodynamics.
A study by University of Alaska Fairbanks researchers found that hatchery-raised fish are interbreeding with wild populations, reducing diversity and increasing resilience. This can have long-term consequences for wild population recruitment and adaptation to future changes.
Research predicts significant shifts in marine fish communities in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans as a result of climate warming. The study projects a decline in the most abundant species and an increase in species richness but with fewer fish overall.
New research reveals that artificial light at night (ALAN) attracts larval fish to artificially lit environments, reducing their chances of survival. ALAN has been shown to lower fish growth rates, metabolic rates, and overall survival, with serious consequences for fish conservation.
Researchers discovered adaptations in metabolism and swimming abilities that enable fish to survive extreme temperatures in the Arabian Gulf. The study challenges prevailing views on the 'shrinking of fishes phenomenon' and proposes a new theory on energy balance and survival.
A new Oregon State University study found that young Pacific cod in near shore safe havens were severely affected by recent marine heat waves in the Gulf of Alaska. The researchers estimated that only the largest 15-25% of the island's cod population survived, leading to significant changes in abundance, growth rates and diet.
Researchers found that removing invasive rats and restoring native vegetation could help bring back hundreds of thousands of breeding pairs of seabirds lost to tropical islands. The restored populations would have enough fish in the sea for them to hunt, supporting nearly 280,000 breeding pairs on islands with full vegetation restoration.
A new group of parasites, ichthyocolids, have been discovered in many marine fish species around the world, according to a recent study published in Current Biology. The parasite is widespread and has been found in all oceans, with potential implications for commercial fishing and oceanic food webs.
Despite improved molecular methods, trade in endangered sharks and rays has continued to rise, with 83% of detected species considered at risk of extinction. Research reveals that DNA sequencing techniques have become more cost-effective but failed to reduce the extent of species threats.
A new study found giant Atlantic bluefin tuna are spending more time in higher latitudes as the region experiences ocean warming events. The fish are normally seasonal visitors to Ireland, but climate change may alter their migration routes.
Researchers have identified the remains of a local prehistoric marine reptile as belonging to a thalattosaur, a large sea-lizard that behaved like an otter. The discovery challenges previous assumptions about its identity and provides new insights into the animal's diet and behavior.
A new study found that 62% of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) designated to protect rare migratory fish species are outside of their core habitats. The study suggests that existing MPAs are not adequately protecting these species due to a lack of data on their distribution and habitat.
Researchers confirm Atlantic cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus) has made a novel migration to Bermuda, using citizen science and morphological/data analysis. The species likely resides in Bermuda for extended periods due to the islands' mild sea temperatures.
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.
A global study reveals progress in marine ecosystem-based management (EBM) initiatives, but acknowledges remaining impediments such as governance, stakeholder engagement, and technology. Experts emphasize the need for political will, persistence, and strategic marketing to overcome these challenges and accelerate EBM adoption.
The disease has devastated susceptible coral species, allowing fast-growing organisms like algae to thrive. This shift in ecosystem balance poses long-term threats to marine biodiversity and coastal communities, with potential benefits including reduced competition for herbivores.
A study by University of Hawaii researchers suggests that revitalizing Indigenous aquaculture systems, known as loko iʻa fishponds, can increase locally available seafood production. This revival has the potential to boost local food production and provide a sustainable solution to Hawaiʻi's seafood supply.
Long-term research reveals herring arrive at least two weeks earlier in the Wadden Sea due to climate change. The consistent measurement approach allowed scientists to detect this change over a period of over 60 years.
Researchers at NTU Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic develop a new, sustainable feed alternative for farmed Asian seabass, reducing reliance on wild-caught fishmeal. The single cell protein is cultivated from soybean processing wastewater, offering a promising solution to the aquaculture industry's environmental challenges.
Researchers have identified cocaine as a contaminant of concern in the Bay of Santos' water, sediments, and marine organisms. The drug causes toxicological effects in animals such as mussels, oysters, and fish, with severe bioaccumulation and ecotoxicological risks.
A study found that agastric fish lack specific genes required for gastric functions, such as slc26a9, kcne2, cldn18a, and vsig1. These findings suggest a genotypic convergence where gene losses correlate with stomach loss in various fish lineages.
A University of Adelaide study found that climate change is helping tropical fish species invade temperate Australian waters. The warming current keeps baby fish warm, increasing their survival chances. As temperatures rise, these tropical fish will eventually grow to their full size and compete with native fish for resources.
In a groundbreaking study, scientists found that juvenile great white sharks prefer warm and shallow waters near the shore, often within 1 km of land. This behavior may help them evade predators and optimize growth efficiency in these nurseries.