Articles tagged with Marine Biology
The study found that one gene, Eda, controls the armor-plating trait in stickleback fish, which evolved rapidly after ocean fish colonized new environments. This suggests that evolution can occur quickly with just a few genes changing slightly, allowing newcomers to adapt and populate new habitats.
A Florida Tech scientist has received a $1.7 million NSF grant to develop an integrated science teaching enhancement partnership, which will help design and pilot learning modules linking earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics
Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanism behind African sleeping sickness by discovering a new protein called JBP2. This protein is believed to play an important role in regulating the production of base J, a unique modified DNA base that enables trypanosomes to evade the human immune system.
Researchers found that large groups can make accurate decisions even when no individuals are leaders and few have information. The study's results may be useful in understanding human behavior in crowds and designing robots for remote exploration.
Researchers found that small male cuttlefish that change their appearance to look like females are successful in fertilizing eggs at a rate of 60 percent. The study used DNA fingerprinting and observed the cuttlefish's behavior over ten days, revealing this unique mating strategy
A scientist at the Marine Biological Laboratory has published a study showing that a combination of pollutants bromoform, chloroform, and tetrachloroethylene can alter nerve cell growth in clam embryos. The study found increased production of an enzyme involved in neural development, which may be linked to neurological disorders such a...
The Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory has unveiled a new comparative toxicogenomics database, integrating gene sequences, chemicals, and references to provide insights into gene-chemical interactions. This resource will help predict toxicity and understand the genetic basis of differences in responses to chemical exposures amon...
Researchers found that warming swordfishes' eyes allows them to process visual information faster than cooled eyes, giving them a significant edge over prey. By heating their eyes, swordfishes retain the ability to spot quickly moving objects, enabling successful hunts in cold water.
The study found that eelgrass significantly increased survival of silversides, tautog, and cunner even at low shoot densities. Macroalgae did not provide a similar benefit.
A Stanford University study reveals that common household fragrances, such as synthetic musks, can compromise the defense system of aquatic animals, leading to long-term effects. The researchers found that even short-term exposure to these chemicals could have lasting impacts on marine organisms.
A team of US marine scientists has discovered a new cluster of hydrothermal vents in the Lau Basin, a geologically unique back-arc basin. The vents are expected to hold secrets about the origin of life on Earth, and the discovery is part of an unprecedented research effort that includes multiple expeditions over the next two years.
The USGS and NASA have surveyed the islands, providing detailed elevation maps of the 'first line of defense,' which is less than half the average east coast elevation. The maps show that up to 70% of the first line of defense would be inundated by storm surge associated with Categories 1-5 hurricanes.
A new study reveals that recreational fishing accounts for nearly a quarter of the total take of overfished populations, including many economically valuable species. Recreational catches outstrip commercial landings in specific depleted populations, such as red snapper and gag in the Gulf of Mexico.
Researchers aim to create implantable human hair cells that can grow and repair damaged hearing. The work involves expanding adult stem cells isolated from mouse inner ear, a step towards restoring hearing in humans. The collaboration between Corwin and Heller at the Marine Biological Laboratory is an important breakthrough.
The Ellison Visiting Scholars Program brings African scientists to the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) to study infectious diseases, including the African trypanosome that causes human sleeping sickness. The program aims to develop strategies for combating these diseases with the help of MBL's cutting-edge facilities and expertise.
An international team of scientists has successfully sequenced the entire clam genome, providing crucial insights into the organism's active DNA. This breakthrough information will enable researchers to create antibodies for studying cellular processes involved in various diseases.
A new research program will focus on improving evidence acquisition and analysis for weapons of mass destruction in marine environments. The program aims to develop sensors and technologies to detect signs of WMDs, enhancing coastal security and national infrastructure protection.
The Panama Biological Survey (1910-1912) tracked fish migration between the Atlantic and Pacific slopes of Panama's Isthmus. New research finds that dispersal played a key role in increasing species richness in local freshwater fish assemblages, even after many generations.
New radiocarbon dates show that mammoths became stranded on St. Paul Island about 13,000 years ago due to rising sea levels. The island's small size limited the ability of mammoths to sustain a permanent population, contributing to their eventual extinction.
A Marine Biological Laboratory researcher and science teacher embark on a two-week research trip to Siberia, studying the Lena River's freshwater runoff. They collaborate with students via virtual experiences, teaching science concepts like convection currents and watersheds.
Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center have identified a genetic sequence for the anti-bacterial protein Escapin found in sea slugs. The protein prevents bacteria from growing on surfaces, making it a potential solution for preventing biofilm formation and associated problems.
A research team at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has found evidence that sea turtles can read geographic position from subtle variations in the Earth's magnetic field. Older turtles use this ability to pinpoint their location relative to specific target areas, effectively having a biological equivalent of GPS.
The Woods Hole COHH will research how oceanic processes affect human pathogens, focusing on temperate coastal ocean distribution and persistence. The center aims to address public health threats from harmful algal blooms and contaminated coastal waters.
The Madison/Swanson and Steamboat Lumps marine reserves in the Gulf of Mexico have been given a new life after a two-year extension. Larger fish with greater egg-producing potential were found within the protected sites than outside them, indicating the reserves are working as designed.
Researchers at the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography have received a $1.1 million NSF grant to study the impact of Earth's rotation on ocean circulation and mixing. The grant will be used to simulate the rotation of the earth and investigate horizontal stirring in the ocean caused by small eddies.
A study led by University of Central Florida researchers found that loggerhead sea turtles are laying eggs 10 days earlier than in the past, with near-shore ocean temperatures increasing by nearly 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit between 1989 and 2003. This change raises concerns about the turtles' food supplies and hatchling survival rates.
Research at UC Davis explores the effects of ocean nanoparticles and vehicle emissions on atmospheric conditions. The study aims to develop models for measuring and predicting nanoparticle transients in the atmosphere.
The Pacific leatherback turtle's population has declined by 97% since 1982, with fewer than 3,000 females remaining. A two-pronged approach is needed to save the species, including stronger protections for nesting beaches and safer fishing practices.
Participants discussed three options for restoring ocean health: education and regulation, investing in technologies, and accepting environmental stress. A majority favored education and regulation, while some believed a combination of all three options was the best approach.
A new guide, developed by NOAA Fisheries and Rhode Island Sea Grant, aims to increase species-specific identifications without associated mortality. The guide focuses on external characteristics and uses photographs to aid in identification, helping users distinguish among 44 highly migratory shark species.
Scientists found a possible link between increasing greenhouse gases and European heat waves, while also studying the transfer of energy from earthquakes through Earth's formations. Additionally, research revealed the Amazon River's strong impact on tropical Atlantic carbon levels and new insights into Martian drainage basins that may ...
A study found that warmer water temperatures increase shrimp predation rates on juvenile winter flounder, leading to local extinction. The warming trend may explain the failure of winter flounder stocks to recover in affected areas.
Pelagic shark assemblage declines drastically, with oceanic whitetip shark declining by over 99%, yet no conservation attention is given to these species.
Researchers have discovered a new deep-sea jelly, Stellamedusa ventana, which uses its bell and oral arms to capture prey. The jelly's unique feeding strategy is unlike other species, as it prefers larger prey, with some individuals capturing creatures up to 5 cm across.
Scientists have discovered that snakes made their debut on land, not in the ocean, as they evolved from their lizard ancestors. The research resolves a long-debated question about the origin of snakes and provides evidence for why they lost their limbs.
Researchers identify four copies of a target gene on separate chromosomes, eliminating possibility of sexual reproduction. This confirms that the ancient microbe has evolved without sex for tens of millions of years.
A recent study found no change in methylmercury levels in yellowfin tuna over a 27-year period, suggesting that high mercury levels in these fish may not be caused by pollution. The research suggests that natural sources, such as hydrothermal vents and deep ocean sediments, could be responsible for the mercury accumulation.
Researchers found a physical interaction between herpes virus and amyloid precursor protein (APP), suggesting a potential clue to Alzheimer's disease. The discovery may lead to further investigations into the role of the virus in the disease.
Researchers mapped out circulation patterns using Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) to enhance understanding of the Bay-RIS system. The study provides detailed spatial images of circulation, showing that water predominantly enters the Bay through the East Passage and is supplied by the southeast during summer.
Dr. S. Bradley Moran and his team will conduct field and modeling studies to assess and improve POC tracing methods, focusing on Th-234's variability in estimating export flux. The research aims to provide accurate information on mechanisms of estimating upper ocean POC export flux using thorium-234.
Jane Lubchenco, a leading marine ecologist, has received the Scripps Nierenberg Prize for Science in the Public Interest. The prize honors her work promoting ocean sciences and preserving all living things in our oceans.
A large study of 779 mother-infant pairs found no association between prenatal mercury exposure and impaired neurodevelopment. Despite finding two tests associated with exposure, the results were likely due to chance, suggesting that current fish consumption levels are probably safe during pregnancy.
A recent study published by the University of Rochester Medical Center found that consuming large quantities of seafood during pregnancy does not pose a detectable risk to children. The study, which followed 300 children from birth in 1989 and 1990, found no adverse effects from low levels of mercury in fish.
HHMI has awarded $10.4 million to Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) and $8.2 million to Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) to support graduate courses spanning biological disciplines and computational sciences. The grants will support high-quality courses that significantly impact participants' careers.
The study reveals that industrial fishing has reduced the resource base to less than 10% globally, threatening entire communities of large fish species. The authors urge international collaboration to restore fisheries and marine ecosystems to healthy levels, highlighting the need for action on a global scale.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have developed new tools to study the near-shore environment, including remote sensing and genetic analysis. By analyzing chemical signals in growing skeletons and genetic differences among populations, scientists can track the movement of marine animals and understand barriers to dispersal.
A new study in Science finds a progressive increase in Arctic river discharge, which could reduce the Atlantic thermohaline circulation and impact global climate. The research also shows a correlation between increased discharge and global surface air temperature and North Atlantic Oscillation.
A URI biologist will monitor salt marshes in national parks for long-term ecosystem changes, enabling resource managers to anticipate detrimental changes and design management strategies. The study sites were selected based on aerial photography, field visits, and interviews with park staff.
Dr. Jennifer Specker's three-year grant researches how cortisol and thyroid hormones regulate stomach development in summer flounder, a process influenced by environmental changes. The study aims to understand the relationship between fish, environment, and climate change.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins University are refining computerized navigation and control systems for deep-sea robots. The new testing facility allows researchers to fine-tune the system, which enables precise positioning and movement of underwater vehicles.
Researchers studying walleye fish in Minnesota waterways find high levels of estrogenic chemicals, linked to reproductive changes. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico aquaculture projects test new offshore cages to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable fisheries.
Peter Rensberger has been recognized with the American Chemical Society's James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public. The award aims to promote outstanding reporting that fosters a public understanding of chemistry, chemical engineering, and related fields.
A Princeton-led study found that 62% of marine iguanas on a Galapagos island died within a year after an oil spill. The researchers believe that beneficial microorganisms in the iguana's guts were killed by the oil, leading to their deaths.
Researchers used a large database of ecological information to analyze over 100 animal populations in the wild. They found that generalist feeding organisms exhibit short cycle periods, typically four times as long as an animal's lifespan, while those that feed on one species have longer cycles.
A team of scientists from the University of Rhode Island and several institutions will develop new models to predict the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems. The Partnership for Advancing Interdisciplinary Global Modeling (PARADIGM) aims to create global ocean models that can predict future states of the ocean.
Daniel Crawford's research focuses on studying the structure and properties of large chiral molecules, such as amino acids, to predict experimental data. His proposed work aims to speed up the synthesis of natural products with biological importance.
A Virginia Tech engineer is developing advanced control systems for unmanned underwater vehicles to perform complex maneuvers, such as evasive actions and tracking El Niño boundaries. His research aims to create protected controls mechanisms for long-duration autonomous operations in the ocean.
Researchers found that the catch of key food species has decreased by over half, despite increased fishing effort. The impact has undermined the ocean's ability to sustain further catches, with invertebrates replacing large predatory fishes at the top of marine food webs.
A new study reveals that the catch of food fish species in the North Atlantic has decreased by more than half over the last fifty years, despite a tripling in fishing effort. This decline is attributed to the increasing pressure on marine ecosystems, leading to reduced productivity and mass extinctions among large predatory fish.
Researchers have developed a uniform methodology to measure carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus levels in estuaries, revealing the relative health of coastal waters. The data show that some estuaries, like Tokyo Bay, have significantly higher nutrient loads than others, such as the Chesapeake Bay.