Articles tagged with Marine Conservation
Researchers found a tradeoff between fast growth and heat tolerance in corals, with thermally sensitive algae dominating faster growth but only in cooler water. This study helps predict reef futures and inform conservation strategies, highlighting the complexity of coral growth on a reef.
A new study sheds light on the feeding preferences of herbivorous fishes and sea urchins, revealing their combined impact on macroalgal communities. Key findings suggest that these herbivores play a vital role in reducing macroalgal cover and promoting coral reef recovery.
New research reveals Indian Ocean seabirds face no hotspots where predators feast on prey, highlighting the need for ocean-wide protection. The study's findings suggest that international action is necessary to safeguard these birds' survival due to human activities like overfishing and pollution.
Researchers have discovered a potential bottleneck in Adélie penguins' annual cycle, which could be exacerbated as the climate continues to change. The study found that seasonal Antarctic sea ice plays a crucial role in the penguins' molting periods, with low sea ice concentration signaling extended gaps in post-breeding diving activity.
Researchers found 22 globally threatened elasmobranch species in Cyprus' coastal waters, with simple measures like limiting net lengths crucial for sustainability. Local authorities have banned trading of 15 species, and conservation efforts are underway to protect the marine ecosystem.
The California Academy of Sciences and Roatán Marine Park have been awarded a $1.5 million grant to construct the first coral rearing facility in Honduras, aiming to reverse the rapid decline of coral reefs by 2030. Researchers will test three promising therapies to enhance coral resilience.
A comprehensive framework for designing marine protected areas has been developed by an international team of scientists. The guidelines prioritize habitat persistence and coastal corridors to help vulnerable species such as turtles, sharks, and lobsters survive climate change. By connecting habitats fractured by human development and ...
A new AI-powered tool, Salmon Vision, enables real-time monitoring of salmon populations in British Columbia and beyond, addressing data-poor fisheries and climate-smart management. The technology has shown promising accuracy in identifying salmon species and yields mean average precision rates of up to 90% for key fish species.
A recent study found that Antarctic fur seal populations have declined by 7% each year since peaking in 2009, with krill numbers crashing in the last decade. The research suggests that rising sea temperatures may be the primary cause of the decline.
Eastern North Pacific gray whales experience extreme population swings due to changing Arctic Ocean conditions. Long-term monitoring data reveals a bumpy ride in response to variable ocean conditions.
A study of 162 killer whales found that their diet played a significant role in contaminant levels and potential health risks. The researchers analyzed the animals' diets and found striking differences in legacy and emerging contaminant concentrations across the North Atlantic.
Researchers found that reducing the amount of gear in the water is more effective than dynamic approaches in minimizing whale entanglements and disruptions to the fishing season. A 30% reduction in gear emerged as the optimal course of action, addressing the problem directly and not relying on surveys or monitoring efforts.
Researchers say current models fail to project oxygen dynamics in coastal ecosystems with high photosynthetic activity, such as seagrass meadows and coral reefs. Fluctuations in oxygen levels have been observed in systems like the Venice Lagoon and Red Sea coral reefs, where marine species adapt to changing conditions.
Ghana has adopted a citizen science approach to address marine plastic litter, leveraging existing data and networks to inform policies and global SDG monitoring. The initiative has become a success story, providing valuable insights for other countries to incorporate citizen science into their SDG efforts.
A recent study published in Ocean and Coastal Management found that the public perception of plans to combat oligotrophication in the Seto Inland Sea is more positive than expected. The survey revealed that respondents were unfamiliar with nutrient supply measures from factories and sewage treatment plants, but presented information si...
A new study synthesizes marine light pollution science, revealing the impact of artificial light on coastal ecosystems and species such as sea turtles. The research highlights the need for urgent action to mitigate the effects of artificial light at night on marine life.
A new study analyzes relationships between body size, trophic level, latitude, and depth for 5,619 marine fish species. Marine fish species tend to have larger body sizes and higher trophic levels in high latitudes, while opposite patterns are observed in warmer latitudes.
A team of marine scientists developed an ecosystem footprint concept to understand the ability of ecosystems to adapt to change over space and time. The framework focuses on building ecosystem resilience and recovery, shifting from stressor-limiting approaches.
A team of scientists used a new method to estimate mutation rates in wild whale populations, revealing higher rates similar to smaller mammals. This led to a significant revision of previous estimates, suggesting that only 20,000 humpback whales remained in the North Atlantic before commercial whaling.
Researchers found that deep-sea octopus gather at the Octopus Garden to mate and nest, with warmer waters accelerating egg development and reducing incubation time. The shorter brooding period boosts reproductive success and increases offspring survival rates.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed an isochoric vitrification technique that preserves and revives live coral fragments without forming ice. This breakthrough enables the collection of coral samples throughout the year, supporting conservation efforts to protect reefs and their diverse ecosystems.
A remote part of the Indian Ocean is home to 12 species of cetaceans, including orcas and sperm whales, prompting calls for protection. The Saya de Malha bank area should be designated as an Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) or Marine Protected Area (MPA).
A new study has revealed that the health of whale sharks depends on a balance of microbes in their skin, which is crucial for their well-being and survival. The research, published in Scientific Reports, used genomic sequencing technology to describe the types of microbes on the skin surface of 74 whale sharks from around the world.
Scientists measured coral calcification rates off Hawaiian Islands at depths of 230-360 feet, finding the lowest rates ever recorded for healthy corals. This is due to the efficient use of calcification by corals like Leptoseris spp., which form thin horizontal skeletons to maximize area in low-light zones.
A new study identifies over 800 bivalve species that humans harvest and find to be more resilient to extinction due to their adaptability in various climates. The researchers highlight the need for sustainable management to preserve these populations, but also warn of potential risks if human demand exceeds their capacity.
Researchers from FAU Harbor Branch deployed an autonomous wave glider to survey marine managed areas off Puerto Rico, recording grouper mating calls and determining spatiotemporal distribution of the two species. The study highlights the importance of spatial and temporal expansion of existing regulations to protect threatened species.
A study by Newcastle University reveals that gillnets in Thailand's small-scale fisheries catch an estimated 5.6 million rays, 457 thousand sharks, and other threatened species each year. The researchers urge regulation of these fishing methods to protect megafauna from extinction.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University uncover the finer-scale feeding patterns of the whitespotted eagle ray, revealing a significantly broader diet than previously described, with high proportions of cockles and wedge shells. The study's findings suggest that these rays can play a facilitative role in reducing predation threats f...
Scientists discover reduced genetic diversity and compromised skeletal properties among 'super corals' adapted to mangrove lagoons. The study challenges existing notions surrounding the resilience of these resilient corals, highlighting potential risks for future environmental stressors.
A new study provides new insights into the genomic architecture and evolutionary mechanisms that have allowed clownfish to diversify and thrive in various ecological niches. The study revealed a genome-wide acceleration in evolution among clownfish, with over 5% of all genes found to be under positive selection.
Researchers have discovered that green sea turtles have been returning to the same seagrass meadows along Egypt and West Libya coasts for approximately 3,000 years. This long-term diet has allowed scientists to connect past dietary habits with specific locations, shedding light on human-induced effects on the environment.
Research found that warmer ocean temperatures and marine heatwaves lead to increased overlap between Chinook salmon and Pacific hake, raising the risk of salmon bycatch. The study used 20 years of data and modeled behavioral changes to show how salmon move lower into the water column during higher temperatures.
A new study uses marine fossils to infer the health and stability of coastal ecosystems, revealing consistent patterns in population declines and species extinctions. The findings provide a reliable benchmark for conservation efforts and offer insights into the impacts of human activities on marine biodiversity.
Researchers argue that equitable governance and science are crucial for ocean sustainability, prioritizing tropical voices and expertise. The study proposes four key actions: equity in ocean science and governance, reconnecting people and the ocean, redefining ocean literacy, and decolonizing ocean science.
A study has revealed that a quarter of all plastics potentially encountered by petrel species are in remote international waters, posing a significant threat to their survival. The research highlights the need for international cooperation to address plastic pollution in the world's oceans.
A new hedging strategy for coral restoration balances species diversity and ecosystem benefits by selecting key species that maintain critical functions. The approach considers a range of local species and ecological characteristics to ensure the most effective restoration outcomes.
The study used a battery-powered acoustic array to record Goliath grouper sounds at an artificial reef, assessing their presence by measuring acoustic activity and habitat distribution. The results showed that the model can be used to automatically process large amounts of acoustic data and provide detailed movements of marine organisms.
A landmark study reveals that more than 90% of global aquaculture and capture fisheries face substantial risks from environmental change. The study highlights the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the need for transboundary collaboration, diversification, and stakeholder engagement to adapt to climate change.
Researchers estimate that gray whales off the Oregon Coast consume millions of microparticles per day, primarily from zooplankton and fish. The study suggests that these high loads of microfibers may be affecting the health and behavior of the whales, with potential consequences for their populations.
New study finds that limiting human activity in parts of the ocean can enhance marine environment health and benefit nearby coastal communities. MPAs with strict fishing restrictions sustain fisheries and improve income and food security for nearby residents.
A new Stanford University study models the distribution of seagrass species around the world at two different timepoints in the future, predicting widespread reductions in species diversity and composition under all scenarios. The research highlights the need for more intentional conservation efforts and emphasizes that even the curren...
Researchers have identified a phenomenon that could help coral reef managers plan and act for the future. Ocean processes during El Niño strengthened the North Equatorial Counter Current, driving cooler plankton-rich waters to Palmyra's coral reefs and enabling them to better manage heat stress.
Artificial night-time light confuses a colour-changing coastal woodlouse, according to new research. The sea slater's ability to change colour and blend in is disrupted by diffuse light, making it more visible to predators.
A recent study finds that most US fish stocks are not constrained by the Magnuson-Stevens Act, but rather by economic demand and other factors. The act's critics may be misinterpreting the data, as healthy stocks are being left in the water due to market forces and policies.
A multidisciplinary team of scientists conducted a comprehensive study to understand the sources and sinks of plastic debris in the Southern North Sea. Local citizen scientists played a crucial role in tracking the distribution pathways of plastic particles, revealing that two-thirds were washed ashore within 25km of their release site.
A new study using CRISPR/Cas9 technology has identified a critical gene, SLC4γ, required for young coral colonies to build their skeletons. This gene is unique to stony corals and may have evolved to support skeleton formation.
A new study finds that boat strikes are increasing manatee strandings and injuries in Belize, with areas of high boat traffic and mangrove habitats showing higher risk. Conservation efforts should focus on reducing boat numbers and speed within protected zones to mitigate this threat.
The study found that widgeongrass has expanded over 150% in the past few decades, outcompeting eelgrass in Chesapeake Bay. This shift has implications for conservation and management of seagrass ecosystems.
The study reveals significant declines in fish species, particularly sharks and rays, linked to human impacts. Archaeological analysis provides insight into lost environments and informs conservation baselines.
A new study found that coastal light pollution causes corals to spawn one to three days closer to the full moon, reducing the likelihood of fertilized eggs surviving and producing new adult corals. This disrupts the natural spawning cycle, which is critical for reef recovery after mass bleaching events.
Researchers developed an AI-powered tool to identify and measure coral reef halos globally, providing a new method for monitoring ecosystem health. The tool enables efficient tracking of reef ecosystems' function at large scales, improving understanding and management of coral reefs.
Researchers have sequenced the genomes of Leatherback and Green sea turtles, revealing similarities in their immune systems and evolution. The study provides clues for understanding fibropapillomatosis, a cancer affecting these species, and informs conservation efforts.
Researchers found high levels of coral pathogens in fish that graze on algae and detritus, while those that eat coral had beneficial bacteria in their feces. These findings suggest that corallivore feces could act as a 'coral probiotic,' potentially benefiting coral reefs.
A new study explores the effects of ocean-surface macroplastic removal on sea surface ecosystems, finding that impacts depend on neuston life histories. The research emphasizes the importance of strong science and governance to mitigate risks to high seas ecosystems.
Researchers recorded and identified mating and feeding sounds of 21 ocean species, including those influenced by the moon. The study's findings will contribute to the development of the Global Library of Underwater Biological Sounds (GLUBS), an open-access online platform for monitoring changes in marine environments.
A study published in Scientific Reports warns that sea level rises could lead to the flooding of sea turtle breeding grounds in Australia, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and the USA. The findings suggest that flooding could contribute to the loss of turtle nesting sites and negatively impact turtle populations.
The study reveals that the African penguin's geographical range has shrunk significantly over the past 22,000 years due to rising sea levels, leaving only a few small islands as suitable nesting habitats. This decline has been exacerbated by human pressures such as climate change, habitat destruction, and competition for food.
Researchers identified a single-celled organism called a scuticociliate as the cause of a massive die-off event among long-spined sea urchins in the Caribbean and along Florida's east coast. The team used genomic techniques and lab experiments to confirm the source of the die-off, replicating what was observed in the ocean.
A parasite identified as Philaster apodigitiformis has been found responsible for the massive die-off of long-spined sea urchins in the Caribbean Sea. The loss of these vital herbivores threatens coral reef health and balance, with devastating consequences for marine ecosystems.
A study found that more than 70% of Chinook populations have declined over the last 50 years, but some populations are recovering due to their diverse migration and spawning strategies. Cold water and marine habitats play a key role in their success, particularly for fall and summer stocks.