Video shows tool use by a fish
A fish has been observed using a tool to crack open a shell, similar to previous reports of tool use by other fish species such as wrasse and blackspot tuskfish.
Shellfish
Articles tagged with Shellfish
50-million-year-old clam shells provide indications of future of El Nino phenomenon
Researchers investigated 50-million-year-old clam shells and wood from Antarctica, finding a climate rhythm resembling El Niño and La Niña in the South Pacific Ocean. The results indicate that global warming may not disrupt the ENSO climate rhythm above the South Pacific Ocean.
Sea smarts: Scientists reconstruct evolutionary history of mollusks
Researchers reconstructed the evolutionary history of molluscs using genomics and computational approaches. They found that complex brain formation in mollusks occurred independently at least four times, with surprising outcomes such as cephalopods being an early branch.
Ancient clams yield new information about greenhouse effect on climate
Research on ancient fossilized clams yields new insights into the relationship between global warming and El Niño. The study suggests that the ENSO system was still active 50 million years ago, despite very warm temperatures during the Eocene period.
Disease-resistant oysters call for shift in Bay restoration strategies
A new study by Virginia Institute of Marine Science researchers suggests that disease-resistant oysters are thriving in the high-salinity areas of Chesapeake Bay, where MSX and Dermo parasites thrive. Restoration efforts should focus on these areas to increase resistance, rather than low-salinity refugia.
Keeping oysters, clams and mussels safe to eat
Researchers at USDA's Agricultural Research Service are investigating the use of high-pressure processing (HPP) to inactivate viruses and bacteria in oysters, clams, and mussels. The technique, already used in pasteurizing juices and meats, has shown promise in inactivating 99.9% of hepatitis A virus in mollusks.
Study suggests alternative treatment for bacteria in oysters
Researchers found that exposure to salty water reduces Vibrio vulnificus levels in oysters, potentially providing a low-cost solution to FDA regulations. The study suggests an 'oyster relay' method could be effective in minimizing the presence of the bacterium.
Paleontologists audition modern examples of ancient behavior
A team of paleontologists used a living brachiopod species to understand how ancient brachiopods fed. They found that the modern animals generated relatively weak and strong feeding currents when opening and closing their shells.
Oysters at risk: Gastronomes' delight disappearing globally
A new survey suggests that over 90% of former oyster reefs have been lost worldwide, with the majority being found in North America. The decline is mainly attributed to over-harvesting and disease, highlighting the need for improved mapping efforts and sustainable fishing practices.
Could oysters be used to clean up Chesapeake Bay?
A study found that oysters can effectively filter ag and urban runoff in the Chesapeake Bay, removing significant amounts of nutrients. Eight large-scale oyster farms could potentially remove one ton of nitrogen from the bay annually, providing a practical ecosystem service.
Eating less healthy fish may contribute to America's stroke belt
A study found that people in 'stroke belt' states, particularly African-Americans, eat more fried fish than others, contributing to a higher risk of death from stroke. The American Academy of Neurology attributes this to the loss of natural fatty acids when frying fish.
Warning lights mark shellfish that aren't safe to eat
A new shellfish marker developed by University of California, San Diego researchers enables the detection of toxin-producing dinoflagellates in shellfish. The marker reveals fluorescent tags on dinoflagellates, indicating potential food poisoning risks, and can be used to develop early warning systems for aquaculturists.
Researchers developing real-time electronic monitoring for coastal waters
A team of researchers at North Carolina State University is developing a low-cost, wireless sensor system to monitor water quality in real-time. The system will enable scientists to track environmental health and answer ecological research questions, such as the impact of oyster activity on environmental conditions.
Disappearing glaciers enhanced biodiversity
A team of researchers found that retreating glaciers created a mosaic landscape with numerous islands, bays, and fiords, allowing new species to develop rapidly. The ancestors of these species survived the ice age in warmer regions, resulting in an exceptional biodiversity in southern Chile.
Purdue researcher cracks open secret of oysters' ability to stick together
A Purdue University-led research team has uncovered the chemical components of oyster adhesive, which could aid in boosting dwindling oyster populations and creating non-toxic materials to prevent marine fouling. The findings also have implications for dentistry and construction.
Archaeological study shows human activity may have boosted shellfish size
A recent study published in Journal of Archaeological Science suggests that a species of shellfish, the humped conch, has increased in size over the past 3,000 years despite increased human activity. The average length of the conchs increased by approximately 1.5 millimeters, making them about 5% larger than they used to be.
Cement, the glue that holds oyster families together
Researchers at Purdue University and the University of South Carolina have discovered a unique adhesive material in oysters that differs from other marine organisms. The cement, composed largely of chalky calcium carbonate, plays a crucial role in forming massive reef complexes.
Scientists to study impact of gulf oil spill on marine food webs
Researchers collecting mollusk specimens from the Gulf Coast will analyze growth rings in shells to determine how quickly harmful compounds from the oil become incorporated into the animals' bodies. They will also test for hydrocarbons in tissues and measure changes in growth rate and survivorship.
Even oysters pay taxes
A new study proposes that slow-growing animals waste energy in two ways, making too much protein and then discarding excess. Fast-growing oysters, on the other hand, are more efficient at protein production, according to USC marine biologists.
Researchers issue outlook for a significant New England 'red tide' in 2010
A large 'red tide' is expected in the New England region this spring, posing a threat to the local shellfish industry. The prediction is based on a higher-than-usual abundance of cysts from the toxic alga Alexandrium fundyense on the seafloor.
Researchers issue outlook for a significant New England 'red tide' in 2010
An abundant seed population in bottom sediments has set the stage for a significant regional bloom of toxic alga Alexandrium fundyense. A computer model developed by scientists can predict the intensity and location of blooms, but weather events cannot be forecasted months in advance.
Queen's University Belfast 'powers' global wave industry
Oyster, developed by Queen's University Belfast and Aquamarine Power, is the world's only hydro-electric wave energy device producing power. It has the potential to meet up to 20% of the UK's energy demands and provide enough energy to power 9,000 homes.
Robotic clam digs in mudflats
Researchers at MIT have created a simple robot that can dig into mudflats at a rate of 1 cm per second, inspired by the burrowing mechanisms of Atlantic razor clams. The robotic clam is small, lightweight, and energy-efficient, making it suitable for underwater applications.
NOAA, NY town and Oyster Farmer collaborate to understand impact of floating shellfish nursery
A collaborative project between NOAA, the Town of Riverhead, and a commercial oyster farmer is measuring the effect of a FLUPSY on water quality and sediment characteristics in Riverhead's East Creek. The study aims to determine the impact of floating shellfish nurseries on the local environment.
Ocean acidification may contribute to global shellfish decline
Researchers at Stony Brook University found that high levels of carbon dioxide in seawater hinder the growth and survival of bivalve larvae, leading to a significant decline in shellfish populations. The study suggests ocean acidification poses an equally serious risk to ocean resources.
Extinction runs in the family
A study of marine clams found that closely related clusters vanish together more often than expected, indicating that vulnerability to extinction is linked to evolutionary family history. Conservation efforts should focus on protecting the most fragile families to preserve evolutionary history.
Shellfish face an uncertain future in a high CO2 world
Scientists have discovered that high CO2 levels are causing ocean acidification, leading to reduced shell growth and calcification in shellfish. Eastern oysters are particularly susceptible, with a 16% decrease in shell area and 42% reduction in calcium content.
Researchers report 'moderately large' potential for red tide outbreak in Gulf of Maine region
Researchers predict a moderately large red tide outbreak in the Gulf of Maine this spring and summer, with toxicity levels expected to be smaller than last year's bloom. The potential for an extensive outbreak depends on weather events and oceanographic conditions, making it difficult to make precise predictions.
Sea Grant report synthesizes recent research on New York's clams
Recent research on New York's clams indicates a decline in populations due to overfishing and brown tide. Key findings highlight reduced reproductive success and ecosystem changes in Great South Bay and other Long Island bays.
Cause of mussel poisoning identified
Researchers from the Alfred Wegener Institute have identified a tiny algal species, Azadinium spinosum, as the producer of azaspiracid toxin, causing severe poisoning in human consumers of mussels. The discovery provides an effective early warning system for mussel farms.
These shells don't clam up: Innovative technique to record human impact on coastal waters
Researchers use stable isotope techniques to analyze clam shells, revealing wastewater inputs to estuaries and coastal food webs. The technique helps distinguish natural from human-driven influences on coastal ecosystems.
Gaps in adhesion
Scientists have reproduced the protein responsible for mussel adhesion in a synthetic material, showing that adhesion is independent of link number. The findings could lead to manufacturing polymers with binding sites for different materials.
National Science Foundation grant expands UMCES oyster research
Dr. Elizabeth North's research team will use in-water sampling and computer modeling to identify factors influencing oyster larvae transport in the Choptank River. The study aims to enhance oyster restoration efforts throughout the entire Chesapeake Bay.
Copper-bottomed guarantee for safe shellfish in restaurants
Researchers develop simple method to make shellfish safe by introducing copper ions into fish tanks, killing 99.99% of Vibrio bacteria within 40 hours.
Restoring Alabama's coast
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has partnered with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab to conduct extensive habitat restoration, monitoring, and research along the Alabama coast. The partnership will utilize $1.5 million in funding to construct shoreline restoration projects and monitor their efficacy.
UT Southwestern researchers uncover attack mechanism of illness-inducing bacterium
Researchers found that V para hijacks host cell processes to trigger rapid autophagy, leading to cell death within three hours. The study highlights the importance of understanding this pathogen's molecular mechanisms to develop effective treatments.
Pacific shellfish ready to invade Atlantic
Climate models predict a nearly ice-free Arctic Ocean by 2050, which will restore conditions that allowed Pacific shellfish to invade the Atlantic three million years ago. Several north Pacific species have relatives in the North Atlantic and are expected to resume their invasion when cold conditions return.
Is that sea otter stealing your lunch -- or making it?
The sea otter's reintroduction is expected to reduce commercially valuable shellfish populations, including sea urchins and geoducks. However, this loss could be mitigated by the creation of alternative fisheries for species such as lingcod, rockfish, and herring.
Why do oysters choose to live where they could be eaten?
Oyster larvae are attracted by adult scent but face a nearly 90% death risk if caught by cannibalistic adults. Despite this, more than 95% of an oyster reef is safe for larvae settlement, driving the evolution of gregarious settlement cues.
Study projects effects of forest management in Oregon's Coast Range
The study, known as CLAMS, examines ecological, economic, and social consequences of forest policies in the Coast Range. The research found that maintaining current policies will lead to increased old-growth forests and habitat for old-forest species, but may result in declines in diverse early-successional and hardwood forests.
Overfishing large sharks impacts entire marine ecosystem, shrinks shellfish supply
A study found that overfishing large sharks leads to an explosion of their ray and skate prey species, which in turn devastates scallop populations. The decline of great sharks has triggered cascading effects throughout coastal food webs, impacting local communities that depend on healthy fisheries.
Deep in the ocean, a clam that acts like a plant
Scientists have sequenced the genome of symbiotic bacteria in giant clams living near hydrothermal vents, revealing a unique chemosynthetic process that allows them to thrive in dark depths. The bacteria fix carbon and produce nutrients for the clam, similar to how chloroplasts work in photosynthesis.
Genes behind animal growth discovered
Researchers at the University of Southern California have identified approximately 350 genes influencing oyster growth rate, revealing new insights into hybrid vigor. This discovery has implications for efficient and sustainable domestication of oysters and other ocean species.
Independent panel recommends strong, clear guidelines for development of marine aquaculture
The Marine Aquaculture Task Force suggests strong environmental standards and funding for research and technology development. The industry's growth is expected to increase seafood demand, but it must be done in an environmentally responsible way.
'Home run' study on spread of disease published
A comprehensive genetic analysis of an invasive marine host and its parasites reveals the accidental introduction of Japanese seed oysters carrying parasitic flatworms, leading to widespread disease in the region. The study highlights the importance of identifying and mitigating disease outbreaks in a globalized economy.
Study finds oysters can take heat and heavy metals, but not both
A new study found that even low levels of heavy metal pollution can harm oysters, while high temperatures exacerbate the damage. The combined effect can lead to fatal weakness and disease in oysters.
Red tide models and forecasts to be expanded in Gulf of Maine
The Gulf of Maine Toxicity program seeks to develop a full understanding of Alexandrium fundyense blooms and their impact on shellfish resources. The project's findings could lead to the harvesting of offshore surfclam and ocean quahog beds, valued at over $50 million annually.
MBL scientists find evidence of RNA in organelle essential to cell division
Researchers from the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) have detected five unique RNA sequences associated with centrosomes, which play a key role in cell division. These findings may shed light on the complex process of cell division and its relationship to cancer research.
RNA found in the cellular centrosome of surf clams
Researchers have discovered RNA in the cellular centrosome of surf clams, which may be related to structure, protein encoding, and organism development. This finding has significant implications for understanding cancer development and progression.
UNH researcher restoring oyster reefs to Great Bay
UNH researcher Ray Grizzle is restoring oyster reefs in the Great Bay estuarine system to promote water quality, support marine life, and provide habitat for sport fishes. His research explores optimal reef restoration techniques using disease-resistant young oysters and recycled shells.
Seagrass is in decline worldwide, says UNH researcher
Seagrass beds are diminishing globally, with human activity identified as the primary cause. The root system of these flowering plants stabilizes sediments and provides habitats for numerous marine species.
New peptide antibiotic isolated from American oyster
Researchers have isolated a new antimicrobial peptide from the American oyster, which may help protect against bacterial pathogens causing food-borne illnesses. The discovery could aid in developing tests to monitor oyster health and improve disease-resistant oyster populations.
Oysters: The natural way to protect our shores
Researchers found that small oyster shell reefs are effective in slowing erosion on low wave energy shorelines, but less effective in higher wave energy environments. This study suggests that oyster reefs could be a useful tool for coastal managers to stabilize shorelines under low energy conditions.
Still shellfish after 425 million years: Clam-like creature preserved perfectly in ancient fossil
A 425-million-year-old clam-like creature, known as an articulate brachiopod, has been found with its soft parts still intact. The fossil provides a unique insight into the workings of ancient shellfish and challenges existing assumptions about their anatomy.
Global warming increases oyster sensitivity to pollution
Rising temperatures exacerbate cadmium's toxic effects on oysters, reducing their survival chances and increasing metabolic rate. As a result, future research will focus on the thermal tolerance of cold-blooded species affected by cadmium pollution.
Use of high hydrostatic pressure to inactivate Hepatitis A virus in oysters studied
A study by Virginia Tech researchers found that high hydrostatic pressure can effectively inactivate the Hepatitis A virus in oysters, reducing the risk of foodborne illness. This breakthrough has significant implications for oyster processing and distribution, as well as consumer safety.
Edible bivalves as a source of human pathogens: signals between vibrios and the bivalve host.
Researchers investigated Vibrio interactions with the bivalve immune system, identifying factors that influence vibrios' fate within the host. Different Vibrio species and strains adopt a common strategy to undermine host cell functions, disregulating signaling pathways.
Paralytic shellfish toxins cause mutation that allows clams to accumulate 100 times more toxin
A team of scientists found that a small mutation in softshell clams' nerve tissue prevents paralytic shellfish toxins from binding, causing the clams to accumulate high levels of toxins. This resistance allows them to survive harmful algal blooms and increase the risk of paralytic shellfish poisoning in humans.
Mutation in clams protects against paralytic shellfish poisoning but raises human health risk
A mutation in clams has been discovered that protects them against paralytic shellfish poisoning, but increases the risk to humans who consume them. The mutation enables contaminated clams to survive in areas with toxic algae, highlighting a need for new safety protocols.
Eating seafood that contains toxic substances can affect the nervous system
Eating seafood containing toxic substances like tetrodotoxin and ciguatera can cause severe neurological effects. Shellfish poisoning is a common type of food-borne illness affecting the USA with symptoms including numbness, slurred speech, and paralysis. Prevention is key to avoiding life-threatening poisoning.