Articles tagged with Marine Conservation
Researchers at UBC's Sea Around Us initiative identified four high-traffic areas in the Pacific Ocean as crucial for conserving large pelagic fishes like tuna and swordfish. By analyzing migration routes, genetic sequencing studies, and catch distribution maps, they pinpointed 'blue corridors' where strict fisheries management measures...
The Save Our Seas Foundation has joined the Shark Conservation Fund to combat overfishing, illegal trade, and habitat destruction threatening shark populations. The partnership aims to conserve shark species, maintain healthy oceans, and address climate change's impact on marine biodiversity.
A scientific expedition led by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute aims to explore and document the biodiversity of Panama's Cordillera de Coiba seamounts. The mission, funded by several organizations, will use advanced technology to study the important habitats in the area.
Researchers tracked 60 stingrays for a year, finding they prefer shallow waters but move into deeper lagoons during extreme tides and temperatures. Climate change may alter their preferred habitat, putting them at risk from sharks.
A massive dataset reveals complex ecological relationships between sharks and game fish, offering a clearer understanding of their interactions. The study's innovative use of acoustic telemetry and machine learning helps inform fisheries management strategies to protect both species.
Scientists have discovered that squid can camouflage to match a substrate, avoiding predators in the process. The study, published in Scientific Reports, sheds light on the behavior of this third type of cephalopod and could inform conservation initiatives.
The RAMPAO network in West Africa covers vital habitats for green turtles, with most key migration corridors falling outside protected areas. The study highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these species and their habitats.
A study by University of California, Davis reveals that volunteer divers with Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) helped monitor more than half of the total fish species in the Salish Sea. REEF scientists expanded the known range of multiple species and documented a new species, the striped kelpfish.
The expanded protected area protects fourteen marine mammal species and improves connectivity of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor. The new management plan prohibits fishing in two-thirds of the area and allows sustainable fishing, reducing bycatch and promoting conservation.
A recent study led by University of Hawaii student researchers found that exposing rice coral larvae to warmer temperatures did not improve survival once the coral developed into juveniles. Instead, rearing at ambient temperatures maximized early life stage survival.
The Save Our Seas Foundation awarded 25 new small grants in 2022, supporting young scientists in their research on shark and ray conservation. The projects focus on sustainable fisheries approaches, local knowledge, and community engagement to address species extinction risks and improve conservation efforts.
A Peruvian trial of underwater sound devices called pingers reduced bycatch of dolphins by 83%, but failed to deter humpback whales. The study found that lower-frequency pingers may be needed to address whale interactions.
Researchers have identified key opportunities to address threats to shark and ray populations through technological advances, international coordination, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. The review highlights the importance of sharks and rays in coastal marine ecosystems and their vulnerability to exploitation due to late maturatio...
Researchers have tracked green turtle populations at Aldabra Atoll and found a significant increase in clutches laid since the species was protected in 1968. The study reveals an overall 2.6% annual rise in clutch numbers, offering hope for marine conservation success stories.
Scientists used data from 1 million marine mammal sightings to identify areas of high marine mammal diversity along the US East Coast. The study found that the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument has some of the richest marine mammal diversity, particularly in the northern part of the Atlantic Coast.
A study found that only 15.5% of the Earth's coastal areas are ecologically intact, with high levels of biodiversity and ecosystem services relied upon by millions of people. The researchers call for increased protections and restoration targets to conserve remaining intact coastal regions.
The Gabonese government-led initiative, 'Gabon Bleu,' created a 20-protected area network, increasing ocean protection from less than 1% to 26%. This inter-connected network protects habitats and globally important marine species.
A City University of Hong Kong study found that improper disposal of surgical masks can pollute over 54,800 Olympic-sized swimming pools annually with microplastics. The research also showed that microplastics accumulate in the food chain, affecting marine organisms and potentially harming higher-level species.
A new FAU seagrass nursery aims to restore the Indian River Lagoon's seagrass beds, which have declined by 58% since 2011 due to reduced light and intense phytoplankton blooms. The nursery uses optimized conditions to boost seagrass productivity and promote genetic diversity for future restoration efforts.
A University of Queensland-led study reveals that only 15.5% of global coastal areas remain undamaged, exposing the need for concerted efforts to conserve these ecosystems and mitigate climate change impacts.
A study led by Monterey Bay Aquarium reveals more than half of the ocean surface has experienced extreme heat since 2014, posing a threat to marine ecosystems. The research found that these heat extremes increase the risk of collapse for crucial ecosystems like coral reefs and kelp forests.
A study by ICTA-UAB suggests that microplastic levels in the Mediterranean Sea are likely higher than previously estimated due to the limitations of current sampling methods. The researchers emphasize the need for a common framework to compare results and combine methods to better understand the distribution and impacts of microplastics.
Mariculture has the potential to deliver high-protein foodstuffs with a significantly reduced carbon footprint compared to terrestrial products. The authors suggest various ways to improve mariculture's sustainability, including supply chain improvements and cofarming practices that can lead to net reductions in CO2 emissions.
Researchers found that lighted gillnets reduced total fisheries bycatch by 63% and specifically bycatch of sharks, skates, and rays by 95%. The technology also reduced the time it took fishers to retrieve and disentangle nets by 57%, making fishing more efficient.
Researchers developed unprecedented insights into the natural and commercial flow of fish, highlighting the importance of inclusive approaches to fisheries management and conservation. The study's findings indicate a strong connection between larval dispersal and catch distribution in Hawaii, emphasizing the need for community-based ma...
Researchers found that dynamic ocean management is more effective in reducing accidental catch than permanent marine protected areas. Dynamic closures track real-time data and close smaller areas as species hotspots shift, resulting in up to 57% reduction in bycatch.
Researchers have discovered a vast icefish breeding colony in the Antarctic Weddell Sea, with an estimated 60 million active nests spanning over 240 square kilometers. The colony represents a significant biomass of more than 60,000 tons and provides insight into a globally unique ecosystem.
A new study by the University of Exeter reveals two previously unknown Vibrio species in UK waters, which can cause gastroenteritis and skin infections in humans. The increasing range of these bacteria also threatens marine biodiversity and the seafood industry, with potential economic costs estimated at £6 billion annually.
A recent study found that over half of macroplastics in Mediterranean MPAs originated elsewhere, highlighting the need for international collaboration on plastic pollution management. The study also showed that coastal zones are most impacted by micro- and macroplastic pollution.
A new study reveals that coral reef ecosystems support diverse small-scale fisheries, providing essential micronutrients vital to the health of millions in the tropics. Following bleaching events, reef fisheries can remain rich sources of these nutrients, even increasing their nutritional value for some minerals.
Researchers have developed a powerful new tool that can determine the diversity of hard corals on a reef by analyzing DNA in seawater samples. This method is faster, easier, and less expensive than traditional visual identification, allowing for more accurate coral reef conservation and restoration.
A study by FAU Harbor Branch reveals that even properly functioning septic systems contribute to nitrogen pollution in the Indian River Lagoon. Groundwater samples showed higher dissolved nutrient concentrations than surface waters, indicating contaminated groundwater as a major source of nutrient loading.
New research explores how climate extremes affect the West Coast Dungeness crab fishery and its impact on whale conservation. The study recommends combining improved forecast systems, technological innovations, and understanding human behavior to reduce whale entanglements.
Researchers found that topical ivermectin treatment is highly effective against hookworm infection in Australian sea lion pups, with a success rate of 96.4 percent. Early treatment before disease development significantly improves overall survival rates.
Researchers used GLS tracking data to study sooty terns' migration patterns, showing they range up to 2,900 km from breeding colonies and cover 47,000 km during an eight-month migratory period. The largest breeding population of terns is on Ascension Island, which was designated a Marine Protection Area in 2019.
Whale-watch vessels with louder petrol engines significantly disrupt short-finned pilot whale resting and nursing, according to a study. The researchers found that mothers who were approached by the vessel with the petrol engine spent on average 29% less time resting and 81% less time nursing their calves.
A recent study found that fish frequently rub against sharks to remove skin irritants and parasites. This behavior, previously unknown, could play a significant ecological role for aquatic animals. The research team documented over 47 instances of fish chafing against shark skin in 13 locations around the world.
FAU researchers custom-build multi-sensor tag combined with AI to observe goliath grouper species in the wild. The study identified 13 behaviors, including hovering, forward swimming, and vocalizations, using video footage from the tags.
Two hundred ninety scientific researchers from 46 countries urge the World Trade Organization (WTO) to ban harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing. The signatories cite research showing that such subsidies lead to unsustainable fishing practices, contravening UN Sustainable Development Goal 14.
A recent study found that whale sharks in Panama may originate from the Arabian Gulf and Western Indian Ocean, highlighting their ability to travel long distances. This discovery underscores the need for transboundary conservation measures like marine corridors to protect this endangered species.
A team of scientists led by Piers Chapman will develop a sustainable blue decision support system to help West Coast communities dependent on fisheries. The project aims to provide climate-informed information for fisheries management and decision-making, enabling stakeholders to make better long-term decisions.
A UNSW-led study analyzing 10 years of citizen science data found that almost half of marine debris can be linked to land-based sources. Plastic accounts for 84% of the rubbish found on Australian beaches, with a significant portion coming from external sources such as stormwater drains near capital cities.
Researchers developed a quick test to identify beneficial bacteria species known to benefit coral, allowing for non-invasive assessment of coral health. The method enables rapid detection of specific bacterial species in seawater and coral samples, suggesting that the bacteria may be concentrated in coral.
Research at Florida Atlantic University found that green sea turtles in polluted environments have impaired immune systems, leading to increased disease susceptibility. The study suggests a positive feedback loop where pollution compromises immunity, making turtles more prone to Green Turtle Fibropapillomatosis.
The global coral reef crisis is characterized by widespread overfishing, pollution, disease, and climate change. The report highlights the need for swift action to address these issues and identifies management efforts such as reducing pollution and establishing marine protected areas.
A new model tracks plastic debris pathways and fate in the Mediterranean, estimating 3,760 metric tons of plastics currently floating. The study highlights the need for effective management plans to mitigate plastic pollution's impact on marine biodiversity and ecosystems.
Research confirms two separate tiger shark populations in the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans, despite trans-oceanic migrations. This long-term separation has resulted in distinct genetic diversity among Hawaiian and Indian Ocean tiger sharks, emphasizing the need for tailored management plans and targeted conservation efforts.
Researchers developed a new, accurate method to detect North Atlantic Right Whale up-calls using Multimodal Deep Learning algorithms. The technology outperformed conventional methods in detecting up-calls, non-up-calls, and false alarms.
Researchers developed a method to forecast blue whale locations up to three weeks in advance, enabling proactive conservation and management. The tool helps minimize the burden on ocean users while protecting whales.
A new study highlights the need to balance wildlife conservation with local community needs in Peru and Chile. Small-scale fisheries are struggling due to protected sea lion and seal populations, which compete for resources and damage fishing gear.
Researchers found that areas protected under 'whole-site' Marine Protected Area (MPA) status have four-fold increases in fish abundance and diversity compared to unprotected areas. The study also showed significant benefits for commercially important fish species and conservation.
The MPA Guide categorizes MPAs by stage of establishment and level of protection, highlighting the importance of including local peoples in the decision-making process for effective conservation. The guide specifies outcomes for biodiversity and human well-being depending on the chosen level of protection.
Researchers successfully used cryopreserved sperm to fertilize coral eggs from hundreds of miles away, demonstrating the reproductive compatibility of distant coral colonies. The technique, known as assisted gene flow, has potential as a conservation tool for endangered corals and could accelerate their adaptation to climate change.
A new study reveals that climate change will affect Antarctic seals, such as crabeater and Weddell seals, in distinct ways. Crabeater seals are more vulnerable due to their specialized diet and breeding on unstable pack-ice, while Weddell seals are less affected.
The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation has completed the largest coral reef survey and mapping expedition in history, assessing over 1,000 reefs in 16 countries. The Global Reef Expedition provided a comprehensive dataset for coral reef conservation, highlighting the status and major threats to these ecosystems.
A study by the University of Miami found that tiger sharks form social groups and exhibit social preferences, but interactions become more random when fed by dive tourism. The researchers tracked tiger sharks over three years and used Social Network Analysis to examine their behavior.
A study by University of Plymouth researchers found that seabed habitats and species recover more quickly following extreme storms than from the impacts of bottom-towed fishing. The research examined the impact of the 2013/14 winter storms on the Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area, off southern England's coast.
A study by Stellenbosch University and conservationists reveals a high number of Cape Fur seals are entangled in fishing lines and nets annually, with most affected being pups and juveniles. The researchers found that disentanglement efforts have been successful, but the problem remains urgent, emphasizing the need for policy changes t...
A new study confirms that Indigenous people managed shellfish and sea otters for thousands of years, safeguarding access to traditional foods. This challenges widely held assumptions about high numbers of sea otters in the past, affecting conservation policy and Indigenous reconciliation.
A recent study found that microplastic ingestion by dinoflagellates lowers their growth and abundance, affecting the larger marine animals that feed on them. The impact is significant, with energy transfer up the food chain reduced by as much as 30%.